Tag: Shovelling

Shovelling Causing You Back Pain?

Are you sick of shovelling? It’s February… commonly known as the worst month of the year so I don’t blame you. We’ve already gone over 3 Tips on How to Make Shovelling Fun in a previous post. But, shovelling is still tough work. And back pain can be inevitable even with the best of technique. So today I will talk about what we can do about it!

Discover the Benefits of Electroacupuncture

WHAT IS ELECTRO-ACUPUNCTURE?

Electro-acupuncture refers to the application of a gentle pulsating current to specific acupuncture points on the body. No current is actually transmitted through the body and is only enough to gently stimulate the acupuncture needle. When these specific points are activated/stimulated, chronic pain/illnesses can be alleviated. Low frequency electro-acupuncture is also associated with the release of endorphins which provides an extended period of pain relief, better tissue healing and wound repair. Perfect for those sore muscles and back pain after shovelling on a day like today.

DOES IT HURT?

Electro-acupuncture is very gentle. You will feel a slight pulsating/buzzing sensation (not a shock!). The intensity and frequency is also adjusted to your tolerance.

WHAT CONDITIONS DOES IT TREAT?

Electro-acupuncture is used for many conditions, but some of the common conditions that it can be used to help treat include:

Sciatica Back Pain
Knee Pain Tennis elbow
Muscle Spasm Nerve pain/neuralgia
Arthritis Bone fractures

HOW MANY SESSIONS ARE REQUIRED?

This depends on the individual, but typically acute injuries require 8-12 sessions. Chronic issues will require approx. 1-2 sessions/week over several months with monthly maintenance thereafter.

HAVE MORE QUESTIONS? Contact Dr. Maria or schedule a free 15 minute consultation to how acupuncture can benefit you!

For even more benefit, schedule a massage together with your acupuncture session at the Health in Hands Massage Therapy and Wellness Clinic!

3 ways to make shovelling fun.

Ok… so maybe not THAT fun. Especially after today with this crazy snowstorm. I can attest to that after shovelling twice already. It’s back breaking activity. Buut.. as I was shovelling today, I actually really got into it. Came back in the house looking like a snowman, but had a giant grin on my face. Crazy right? So how did I do it?

  1. Look at it like it’s a workout
    • The only way I was getting off of my comfy couch and out from under warm blankets was because I knew that I would be getting a serious workout from doing it…. and it also meant I didn’t have to go to the gym later (insert guilty smile here). C’mon just because I’m a naturopath, doesn’t mean I want to head out in blizzards either. Even if it means an awesome session at the climbing gym.
    • Pro tip: get some music going, and it’ll feel just like a workout. Get those endorphins going! (Just make sure you bundle up.. shorts and a t-shirt won’t cut it here)
  2. Do it with a friend
    • Whether it’s a partner, housemate or just calling over a buddy… make it a social activity! 2 shovels are waay better than one. They say misery loves company… but why can’t you just want company to make a hard task easier? Nobody said 3 feet of snow had to be misery…
  3. Make it a race
    • Time yourself! It’ll feel more like a challenge, and it’ll get your adrenaline going a little bit.
    • If you’re doing it with a friend, see who can finish their side faster
    • Note: Just watch your back and shoulders. No need to injure yourself either

When you’re done, reward yourself to a nice soak in the tub with some epsom salts to relax the muscles. And maybe a nice glass of wine… ;

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In health,

Your Friendly Mississauga Naturopath