Learn What's Going On at Advanced Health and Sports Clinic

Common Ailments Treated by Radial Shockwave Therapy

Radial shockwave therapy is a powerful tool in the treatment of various chronic conditions. Available at both our Nanaimo and Parksville Advanced Health + Sports Clinic locations. Shockwave therapy is backed by strong scientific evidence for its effectiveness. Here are some of the most common ailments radial shockwave therapy can help treat:

Plantar Fasciitis

Plantar fasciitis, a painful condition affecting the heel and bottom of the foot, responds exceptionally well to shockwave therapy. According to a study by Rompe et al. (2009), shockwave therapy significantly reduces pain and improves function in patients with chronic plantar fasciitis.

Achilles Tendinopathy

Achilles tendinopathy is another condition where shockwave therapy has shown significant benefits. In a randomized controlled trial, Furia (2008) demonstrated that shockwave therapy improved pain and activity levels in patients suffering from this persistent tendon issue.

Tennis Elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis)

Tennis elbow, characterized by pain and tenderness on the outside of the elbow, can be effectively treated with shockwave therapy. A meta-analysis by Vescovi et al. (2016) confirmed that shockwave therapy provides considerable pain relief and functional improvement in individuals with tennis elbow.

Patellar Tendinopathy

Also known as jumper’s knee, patellar tendinopathy causes pain at the front of the knee. shockwave therapy has been shown to be beneficial, with peer-reviewed research by Van Leeuwen et al. (2009) indicating significant pain reduction and enhanced knee function following treatment.

Calcific Shoulder Tendinopathy

Calcific shoulder tendinopathy, characterized by calcium deposits in the shoulder tendons, is another condition effectively treated with shockwave therapy. A study by Cacchio et al. (2006) found that shockwave therapy significantly reduced pain and improved shoulder mobility in affected patients.

Medial Tibial Stress Syndrome (Shin Splints)

For athletes and active individuals suffering from shin splints, shockwave therapy offers relief. Moen et al. (2012) highlighted that shockwave therapy can alleviate pain and expedite return to sport activities in those with medial tibial stress syndrome.

At Advanced Health + Sports Clinic, we understand that shockwave therapy is just one piece of the puzzle. It’s crucial to adhere to an active rehabilitation program to maximize the benefits of shockwave therapy. Our team of physiotherapists and chiropractors is dedicated to providing comprehensive, evidence-based care to help you recover and thrive. Visit us in Nanaimo or Parksville to experience the latest in sports medicine technology and expert care.

How Radial Shockwave Therapy Heals Chronic Soft Tissue Injuries

At Advanced Health + Sports Clinic, we’re excited to offer radial shockwave therapy at both our Nanaimo and Parksville locations. This innovative treatment is a game-changer for those suffering from chronic soft tissue injuries. Here’s how shockwave therapy works to heal these conditions, supported by scientific evidence:

Stimulates Blood Flow

Radial shockwave therapy generates high-energy sound waves that penetrate deep into the affected tissue. This process stimulates the growth of new blood vessels, improving blood flow to the injured area. Enhanced circulation brings essential nutrients and oxygen, accelerating the healing process and reducing pain. A study by Wang et al. (2012) found that shockwave therapy significantly increases neovascularization, promoting better tissue repair.

Helps Remodel Fibrotic Tissue

Chronic injuries often result in the formation of fibrotic tissue, which can restrict movement and cause pain. Shockwave therapy effectively helps remodel these fibrous adhesions, allowing for improved mobility and less discomfort. By addressing fibrotic tissue, the therapy helps restore the natural structure and function of the tissue. Research by Schmitz et al. (2015) showed that shockwave therapy can disrupt fibrotic tissue, enhancing tissue flexibility and function.

Reduces Pain

One of the immediate benefits of shockwave therapy is pain relief. The acoustic waves desensitize nerve endings, diminishing the pain signals sent to the brain. This effect not only provides immediate relief but also enables patients to engage more comfortably in rehabilitation exercises, which are crucial for long-term recovery. A study by Notarnicola et al. (2018) demonstrated that shockwave therapy significantly reduces pain perception in patients with chronic pain conditions.

Promotes Collagen Production

Collagen is a vital protein for the repair and regeneration of soft tissues. Shockwave therapy stimulates collagen production, leading to stronger, more resilient tissues. This is particularly beneficial for tendons and ligaments, which are often compromised in chronic injuries. Cheng et al. (2014) found that shockwave therapy significantly increases collagen synthesis, improving tissue strength and durability.

Enhances Metabolic Activity

The mechanical stimulation from shockwave therapy increases cellular metabolism. This boost in metabolic activity enhances the removal of cellular waste and promotes the absorption of nutrients necessary for tissue repair. The result is a more efficient healing process and quicker recovery times. Research by Wang et al. (2016) indicated that shockwave therapy enhances metabolic activity and cellular regeneration, aiding in the healing process.

At both our Nanaimo and Parksville clinics, we integrate shockwave therapy into comprehensive treatment plans tailored to each patient’s needs. While shockwave therapy is highly effective, it’s important to couple it with an active rehabilitation program to maximize benefits. Our skilled physiotherapists and chiropractors are here to guide you every step of the way, ensuring you receive the best care possible.

Embracing Vitality: The Power of Lifelong Exercise

As time ticks away, our bodies naturally change. Yet, the key to defying age’s grasp lies in an often overlooked fountain of youth – exercise. At Advanced Health + Sports Clinic, we advocate for the proactive embrace of vitality throughout life, using movement to counteract age-related changes. Let’s explore the uplifting aspects of this preventive journey:

1. Cognitive Benefits of Exercise

Regular exercise is linked to improved cognitive function and a reduced risk of decline.
According to the World Health Organization, physical activity can cut the risk of cognitive decline by 20%.

2. Improved Bone Density

Weight-bearing exercises stimulate bone formation, countering the natural decline in density.
The National Osteoporosis Foundation reports that strength training enhances bone health, reducing fracture risks.

3. Arthritis Management

Exercise helps manage arthritis symptoms by maintaining joint flexibility and reducing pain.
The Arthritis Foundation encourages physical activity to improve joint function and ease discomfort.

4. Muscle Maintenance (Sarcopenia)

Strength training fights sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass and strength.
A study in the Journal of the American Medical Directors Association found resistance training improved muscle mass in older adults.

5. Independence

Exercise supports independence in daily activities by maintaining strength and flexibility.
The CDC highlights physical activity’s role in preserving mobility and independence.

6. Mental Well-being

Exercise releases endorphins, fostering a positive mood and reducing the risk of depression.
The Anxiety and Depression Association of America notes that regular physical activity can alleviate symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Prevention is indeed worth a pound of cure. By integrating exercise into our lives, we not only counteract age-related changes but also cultivate a future brimming with vitality. At Advanced Health + Sports Clinic, we invite you to join this uplifting journey, celebrating the boundless benefits that come from embracing movement throughout life. Contact our team at Advanced Health + Sports Clinic and find out how to integrate exercise into your daily life and improve your overall health and well-being.

Accelerating Healing: The Physiological Boost of Laser Therapy in Injury Recovery

In the journey to recovery from injuries, embracing advanced and effective treatments is paramount. Laser therapy has emerged as a powerful tool in the rehabilitation arsenal, employing specific physiological mechanisms to expedite healing. At Advanced Health + Sports Clinic, with locations in Nanaimo and Parksville, BC, we integrate laser therapy into our comprehensive approach, harnessing its potential to augment recovery from various injuries.

Laser therapy operates on the principle of photobiomodulation, a process where light energy penetrates tissues, triggering biochemical changes at a cellular level. Here are the physiological mechanisms through which laser therapy enhances injury recovery:

Increased Cellular Energy Production

Laser therapy stimulates the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), the energy currency of cells. This surge in energy accelerates cellular activities, fostering quicker tissue repair.

Improved Blood Circulation

The therapy enhances blood flow by dilating blood vessels, ensuring efficient oxygen and nutrient delivery to the injured area. This heightened circulation expedites the removal of waste products, promoting a healthier healing environment.

Reduced Inflammation

Laser therapy exhibits anti-inflammatory effects by modulating cytokines and enzymes responsible for the inflammatory response. This reduction in inflammation alleviates pain and swelling associated with injuries.

Enhanced Collagen Production

Collagen is a crucial component of tissue repair. Laser therapy promotes collagen synthesis, aiding in the formation of stronger and more resilient connective tissues.

Faster Injury Healing

By accelerating cellular regeneration and tissue repair, laser therapy shortens the overall healing time, allowing individuals to resume normal activities sooner.

While laser therapy offers a potent boost to injury recovery, its effectiveness is maximized when coupled with prescribed exercise programming. Our clinicians at Advanced Health + Sports Clinic emphasize the importance of adhering to tailored exercise regimens. Exercise not only complements the physiological benefits of laser therapy but also plays a pivotal role in improving strength, flexibility, and overall functional capacity.

Adherence to prescribed exercises ensures that the gains achieved through laser therapy are sustained, preventing re-injury and promoting long-term wellness. At Advanced Health + Sports Clinic, we view the combination of laser therapy and exercise programming as a dynamic partnership, empowering individuals on their path to a swift and resilient recovery.

Pain Relief Precision: Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) Therapy in Nanaimo & Parksville

At Advanced Health + Sports Clinic, we are your premier Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation Clinic, dedicated to serving the communities of Nanaimo and Parksville, BC. We understand the unique needs of our local residents and are committed to providing top-notch care tailored to your specific requirements.

When it comes to helping our patients recover from injuries and tackle tight muscles, nerve pain, or chronic pain, we’ve seen remarkable results with Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS). Here’s why IMS is such a game-changer for our local community:

Targeted Muscle Relief

Intramuscular Stimulation is exceptionally effective at pinpointing and alleviating tight muscles, a common source of pain and discomfort. Tight muscles can lead to nerve impingements, causing pain, tingling, or weakness in the affected area. IMS disrupts these tense muscle fibers, restoring normal function, reducing pressure on the affected nerve, and minimizing pain.

Neurophysiological Benefits of Intramuscular Stimulation

Intramuscular Stimulation offers a unique neurophysiological effect that helps reset the nervous system, ultimately reducing chronic pain. The needle’s stimulation triggers a reflex in the nervous system, resulting in pain reduction and improved function. Our local patients appreciate the holistic relief IMS brings.

Enhanced Circulation

IMS contributes to improved circulation, ensuring oxygen and nutrients flow to the affected area, promoting healing. This aspect is especially valuable to those within our community as it speeds up recovery and gets you back on your feet.

Intramuscular Stimulation is Safe and Effective

Rest assured, IMS is a safe and effective therapy administered by our skilled practitioners. We utilize sterile, single-use needles, making it well-tolerated with minimal side effects. Our commitment to safety and patient comfort is what makes Intramuscular Stimulation an ideal choice for the people of Nanaimo and Parksville seeking relief from injury-related pain.

In conclusion, we firmly believe that Intramuscular Stimulation is an invaluable tool for our physiotherapists and the individuals of Nanaimo and Parksville who aspire to enhance their function and reduce pain following an injury. By specifically targeting tight muscles, enhancing circulation, and resetting the nervous system, IMS delivers effective relief for chronic pain, nerve pain, and tight muscles, empowering our local patients to reclaim their active lifestyles.

Head in the Game: Concussion Baseline Testing for Safer Sports in Nanaimo and Parksville

In Nanaimo and Parksville, the well-being of our athletes is our top priority. We understand that safety is paramount, and that’s why we’re proud to introduce you to a game-changing approach to concussion management in our communities – concussion baseline testing. Let’s dive into the significance of this crucial tool, one that ensures athletes are thoroughly prepared for their sports journey.

At the heart of this initiative is Complete Concussion Management Inc. (CCMI), an organization dedicated to assessing, managing, and rehabilitating concussions. CCMI provides comprehensive training for certified Concussion Management Practitioners. This includes physiotherapists – equipping them with the evidence-based knowledge and tools required to deliver exceptional care.

Our team of physiotherapists undergoes extensive concussion management training, covering:

Understanding Concussion

Our physiotherapists receive in-depth education on all aspects of concussions, from the biomechanics of injury to the latest research findings.

Concussion Assessment Skills

They acquire essential skills for conducting comprehensive assessments, which include symptom checklists, balance tests, neurocognitive exams, and more.

Management Techniques

Our training ensures our physiotherapists can effectively manage and guide athletes through the recovery process, using the most up-to-date strategies in physiotherapy.

Return-to-Play Protocols

Our certified professionals are well-versed in developing individualized return-to-play plans, ensuring a safe transition back to sports while following physiotherapy protocols.

Concussion Rehabilitation Knowledge

Our physiotherapists understand how to implement evidence-based rehabilitation techniques to aid in the recovery process.

Let’s explore five compelling reasons why concussion baseline testing, conducted by our trained physiotherapists, is crucial for athlete safety:

Let’s explore five compelling reasons why concussion baseline testing, conducted by our trained physiotherapists, is crucial for athlete safety:

Customized Concussion Care: Baseline testing after suffering from a concussion establishes a unique starting point for each athlete. Allowing our physiotherapists to tailor their care to individual needs using physiotherapy expertise.
Objective Measurement: Baseline testing provides an objective benchmark for tracking an athlete’s progress during recovery, reducing the risk of premature return to play, an essential part of physiotherapy guidance.
Early Concussion Detection: Baselines help identify subtle cognitive changes that may otherwise go unnoticed, facilitating early intervention if a concussion occurs, a key aspect of physiotherapy care.
Educational Tool: Athletes and coaches gain a better understanding of concussions and the recovery process, promoting informed decisions and safer practices, backed by physiotherapy knowledge.
Peace of Mind: Knowing that a baseline test is in place offers athletes, parents, and coaches peace of mind, knowing that their safety is a top priority, as upheld by our physiotherapists.

In Nanaimo and Parksville, CCMI’s Concussion Baseline Testing, conducted by our skilled physiotherapists, plays a vital role in safeguarding the well-being of our athletes. It’s a proactive measure that ensures a safer, more informed approach to sports participation, aligning perfectly with our commitment to healthy and thriving communities.

Additionally, we’re proud to offer the services of four CCMI clinicians in Parksville and six in Nanaimo, ready to serve the needs of our athletes and the general population alike for all concussion-related concerns, providing comprehensive care with the expertise of physiotherapy.

BOOK YOUR BASELINE TEST TODAY

Benefits of Wearing a Knee Brace

As a physiotherapist, I often recommend the use of knee braces to my patients with knee pain, including the Bauerfeind GenuTrain knee brace.

Benefits of Wearing a Knee Brace

Pain relief: The GenuTrain knee brace is designed to provide targeted compression and support to the knee joint, which can help reduce pain and improve joint stability.
Improved joint function: The knee brace helps to offload the knee joint and distribute weight more evenly, which can improve joint function and reduce pain.
Increased mobility: The knee brace helps to improve stability, which can increase a patient’s confidence in their knee and allow them to participate in a wider range of activities with less pain.
Reduced inflammation: The knee brace is designed to provide targeted compression, which can help reduce swelling and inflammation in the knee joint.
Easy to wear: The GenuTrain knee brace is made of a comfortable, breathable material and is designed to be worn all day, making it an easy and convenient option for patients seeking knee pain relief.

In conclusion, the Bauerfeind GenuTrain knee brace can provide several benefits for patients with knee pain caused by arthritis. By providing targeted compression, support, and improved joint stability, this type of knee brace can help reduce pain and improve joint function, allowing patients to stay active and participate in a wider range of activities.

If you are suffering with knee pain due to arthritis, our team at Advanced Health & Sports Clinic is here to help. We have locations in both Nanaimo and Parksville and a team of experienced physiotherapists who are available to assist you in managing your pain and improving your overall quality of life. Contact us today or book an appointment using our convenient online booking system.

In-Clinic Interventions to Treat Symptoms of Knee Arthritis

As a physiotherapist, there are several interventions that can be used in the clinic to help a patient with arthritic knee pain.

In-Clinic Interventions to Treat Symptoms of Knee Arthritis

Manual Therapy: This can include joint mobilization, massage, and stretching to help improve range of motion of the knees and reduce arthritis pain.
Exercise Therapy: A physiotherapist can design a tailored exercise program to help improve muscle strength and joint function, reduce arthritis pain, and increase range of motion of the knees.
Taping or Bracing: The use of taping or bracing can help offload the knee joint, reduce arthritis pain and improve stability.
Electrotherapy: The use of electrical stimulation, such as TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation), can help reduce arthritis pain and improve muscle function.
Education and advice: A physiotherapist can provide advice and education on joint protection techniques, such as using assistive devices, and lifestyle modifications, such as weight management, to help reduce stress on the knee joint.

By incorporating these interventions into a comprehensive treatment plan, a physiotherapist can help a patient with arthritic knee pain improve their joint function, reduce pain, and improve their overall quality of life. We have locations in both Nanaimo and Parksville and a team of experienced physiotherapists who are available to assist you in managing your pain and improving your overall quality of life. Contact us today or book an appointment using our convenient online booking system.

Managing Knee Arthritis

As a physiotherapist, I often see patients with knee arthritis seeking ways to manage their symptoms at home. While there is no cure for knee arthritis, there are several scientifically proven methods to help reduce pain and improve joint function.

Methods to Help Improve Symptoms of Knee Arthritis

Exercise regularly: Regular low-impact exercises such as cycling, swimming, and water aerobics can help improve range of motion in your knees and reduce arthritis pain. Strengthening exercises for the muscles around the knee, such as the quadriceps and hamstrings, can also help reduce stress on the knee joint.
Use heat or cold therapy: Applying heat or cold to the affected knee can help reduce pain and swelling. A warm bath, heating pad, or hot water bottle can help soothe sore joints, while an ice pack can help reduce swelling and numb pain.
Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight places additional stress on the knee joint, so maintaining a healthy weight can help reduce symptoms of knee arthritis.
Use assistive devices: Canes, knee braces, or other assistive devices can help reduce stress on the knee and improve stability. Your physiotherapist can help you determine which device is best for you.
Take anti-inflammatory medication: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can help reduce arthritis pain and inflammation of the knees. However, it’s important to talk to your doctor before starting any new medication.

By incorporating these 5 scientifically proven methods into their daily routine, individuals with knee arthritis can effectively manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life.

IMS/Dry Needling ~ How it works & what it helps with!

As a physiotherapist who see’s patients in both Nanaimo & Parksville BC, I have seen firsthand the benefits of intramuscular stimulation (IMS) for countless patients recovering from injury who are experiencing tight muscles, nerve pain, or chronic pain. IMS is a type of therapy that involves inserting fine acupuncture needles into tight, painful muscles to release tension and improve function.

One of the key benefits of IMS is its ability to target and relieve tight muscles, which can be a major contributor to pain and dysfunction. Tight muscles can cause nerve impingements, leading to pain, tingling, or weakness in the affected area. IMS works by disrupting the tight muscle fibers and promoting normal function, reducing the tension on the affected nerve and decreasing pain.

IMS also has a neurophysiological effect, helping to reset the nervous system and reduce chronic pain. The stimulation from the needle triggers a reflex in the nervous system, which can help to reduce pain and improve function. Additionally, IMS can help to improve circulation, delivering oxygen and nutrients to the affected area and promoting healing.

IMS is a safe and effective therapy that can provide relief for many patients with chronic pain, tight muscles, or nerve pain. The therapy is performed by a trained practitioner and involves the use of sterile, single-use needles. IMS is well tolerated by most patients and has few side effects, making it a suitable option for many individuals seeking relief from injury-related pain.
In conclusion, IMS is a valuable tool for physiotherapists and patients seeking to improve function and relieve pain after an injury. By targeting tight muscles, improving circulation, and resetting the nervous system, IMS can provide effective relief for chronic pain, nerve pain, and tight muscles, helping patients recover from injury and return to their active lifestyles.

If you are experiencing chronic pain (any issue lasting longer than three months), neuropathic or nerve pain, or persistent muscular stiffness reach out today and we are happy to assess your condition and determine if IMS is a suitable part of a treatment plan for you and your goals.

We have locations in both beautiful Nanaimo and Parksville, BC and have admin teams standing by happy to connect with you!