When most people think about physiotherapy, they usually think about getting treated for a muscle pain, or other strain or sprain. However, the benefits of physiotherapy extend beyond just the musculoskeletal tissues of the body. In this blog post, we discuss through some of the lesser known conditions or symptoms that can improve with physiotherapy Pelvic health physiotherapy for pelvic pain or dysfunction Firstly, pelvic health physiotherapy may be right for you if you experience pain or dysfunction in the pelvic area. This may include but is not limited to pain during intercourse, and pain or abnormal control over urination and bowel movements (urgency, incontinence, retention) and prenatal and post-natal care. Both men and women may benefit from pelvic health physiotherapy. Cancer rehabilitation Secondly, physiotherapy can help manage the many side effects of cancer treatment after surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy. Addressing these side effects can help you increase the quality…

What is Parkinson’s Disease? Parkinson’s Disease is a progressive neurological condition resulting in difficulty starting and maintaining movements in the body. Importantly, there is a loss of some neurons (brain cells) that contribute to coordinating muscles and creating smooth movements. As a result, individuals with this condition experience a range of symptoms that impair their strength, mobility,  flexibility, and posture. 4 hallmark features Tremors: Firstly, tremors are usually the initial symptom. The tremor is mostly when the body is resting, such as sitting, but may worsen over time to affect the individual while they’re performing other tasks like writing, eating, or shaving. Rigidity: Secondly, rigidity refers to stiffness of the muscles and joints. In Parkinson’s, it can affect the arms, legs, trunk, and even the face. Bradykinesia: Next, bradykinesia means slowness of movement which may include stopping or hesitating during movements. Postural Instability: Finally, difficulty balancing and correcting postural faults…

Why do you need a walking aid? Elderly man independent in walking Restricted and reduced ability to walk and perform your daily chores can impact your quality of life. Walking aids are devices designed to help people walk and can be used by individuals of any age. As a result, this improves your quality of life by making you independent and confident. Here are some reasons that will indicate you need walking aids. difficulties walking whether it’s due to pain. frequent falls or fear of falling. tiring quickly. decreased balance. difficulty putting weight on a body part, post-surgery, or any other reason. What types of walking aids are available? The categories of walking aids include crutches, canes, and walkers, and has their own pros and cons. Below are general overviews of the most common types of walking aids. crutches, often prescribed to individuals following an injury…

Falls prevention programs play an important role in the health of the elderly population.  Falls and the complications associated with them are a huge issue.  It affects many aspects of society including health care spending and caregiver stress.  Furthermore, the resulting injuries and effects from a fall can be very serious, both for the patient and the family involved.  At PhysioNow, our Registered Physiotherapists can help protect your loved ones from falls.   Causes of Weakness & Frailty in the Elderly The reasons for weakness, loss of function/mobility and frailty in the elderly may include: Genetics Some physical characteristics or conditions may have a strong genetic component For example, osteoarthritis may be influenced by genetics and can significantly affect a person’s ability to be mobile and active Disease/Conditions Any disease that affects the strength and/or mobility of a patient will place the individual at risk of falling as the condition…

Elderly Falls Prevention Elderly Falls prevention is a huge societal issue.  It affects many aspects of society including health care spending and caregiver stress.  As a result injuries and effects from a fall can be very serious, both for the patient and the family involved. Characteristics of the elderly Population There are some who have been able to maintain their mobility and strength and continue to stay healthy and active. Then there are those who are struggling with their day to day activities due to weakness and frailty.   There are also those who fall somewhere in between.  Those individuals…