Boost your water intake - Summer is here and here are some great tips! With the summer months well and truly upon us, the need to boost your water intake to stay hydrated is very important. Hydration is important for all of the body’s functions because 70% of our body weight is due to water. Most of the water lives within the cells of our tissues and if the levels of water within them drop too low you can suffer from dehydration. This can involve symptoms including muscle cramping, lighthead...
Health Tips
Below are 10 tips designed to keep your back, neck and eyes healthy while indulging in some screen time! 1. Sit so you're well supported i.e. your back should be touching the chair back rest - avoid spending prolonged periods on soft couches or bean bags. 2. Change your position regularly - if you're watching for long periods, take turns sitting on the couch, chair, or floor. 3. Use a lumbar roll, or rolled towel, behind your lower back (about belt line) - to provide support ...
I often get asked by patients what is the difference between a STRAIN and a SPRAIN, so here goes… A “STRAIN” is an injury to a muscle resulting in partial or total tearing of the muscle. There are three levels: mild or first degree, moderate or second degree, and severe or third degree. They are caused by sudden movement, overuse, forceful stretching, violent contraction or unaccustomed repeated minor trauma. “SPRAINS” are an injury of the joint, in which the bones momentarily come out ...
If you sustain an injury, whether it is at work, sport or around the home, you need to manage it well. Nobody likes to be out of action or sitting on the side lines due to injury. If you immediately start to manage your injury with the most evidence based (and common sense) practices you will be able to heal and get back to fitness quicker. The best way to manage an acute injury has not changed a lot over the past 15 years. The principles of RICER and No HARM help prevent further damage an...
It is often difficult for patients to determine whether ice or heat treatment is appropriate for an injury. Whilst heat often provides immediate comfort and relief, it may actually be causing more harm than good. Likewise, incorrect use of ice may also prolong injury recovery. If used correctly, however, appropriate ice and heat treatment can help to reduce bleeding, inflammation, swelling, muscle spasm and pain following injury. Ice and heat treatment can also accelerate healing and haste...
It is important to fit your child's school backpack properly, because according to a report by the Australian Consumer Product Safety Commission, 75 percent of all 8- to 12-year-olds have reported experiencing back pain from carrying backpacks that are too heavy. Not only should you buy a backpack that is the correct size, but you should also adjust the straps and pack it so the weight will be evenly distributed. Avoid being pressured to buy your child a backpack with only one shoulder strap....
