July 2024 - TheraTouch Physiotherapy

By TheraTouch Blogs July 31, 2024 0 Comments Physio kegels, pelvic floor dysfunction, pelvic floor physiotherapy, pelvic health, pelvic health physiotherapy

What Are Kegel Exercises & How Do I Do Them?

We are introducing a mini Kegel series on our blog. This week we talk about what Kegels are and how to do them. Enjoy! Kegel exercises offer a fantastic way to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, benefiting both men and women. These exercises improve bladder control, reduce the risk of pelvic organ prolapse, and enhance sexual health. Whether you’re new to Kegels or looking to perfect your technique, this guide covers everything you need to know.

Understanding the Pelvic Floor Muscles

Your pelvic floor muscles form a supportive hammock for your bladder, uterus (for women), and rectum. Strengthening these muscles provides significant health benefits, making Kegel exercises a valuable addition to your routine.

Benefits of Kegel Exercises

Kegel exercises significantly enhance your health by strengthening your pelvic floor muscles. If you’re a woman, you’ll notice improved bladder control, preventing the inconvenience of urinary incontinence. By maintaining the integrity of your pelvic floor, you’ll reduce the risk of pelvic organ prolapse, where organs like your bladder or uterus can descend into the vaginal area. Additionally, stronger pelvic muscles will enhance your sexual health and satisfaction by increasing vaginal tone and sensation, which can elevate your overall sexual experience.

For men, Kegel exercises offer similar benefits. You’ll find improved bladder control and prevention of urinary incontinence, which becomes crucial as you age or after prostate surgery. These exercises support your recovery post-surgery by strengthening your pelvic floor muscles, helping restore your urinary function more quickly and efficiently. Additionally, you’ll experience enhanced sexual health, as Kegels can address erectile dysfunction and improve ejaculation control. Strengthening your pelvic floor improves blood flow to your genital area, leading to stronger erections and greater sexual satisfaction.

Identifying Your Pelvic Floor Muscles

Finding the right muscles is crucial for effective Kegel exercises. You can identify them by stopping urination midstream. Only do this to locate the muscles, not regularly. Another method is to tighten the muscles that prevent you from passing gas.

How to Do Kegel Exercises

Step 1: Choose a comfortable position—sitting, standing, or lying down works well.

Step 2: Tighten your pelvic floor muscles (pretending to stop your urine mid stream), holding the contraction for about 3-5 seconds. Ensure you’re not tightening your abdominal, thigh, or buttock muscles.

Step 3: Release the contraction and relax for 3-5 seconds. The relaxation phase is just as important as the contraction.

Step 4: Aim for at least 10 repetitions, three times a day. As your muscles strengthen, gradually increase the duration of contractions and the number of repetitions.

Tips for Effective Kegel Exercises

Consistency is key. Integrate Kegel exercises into your daily routine—whether brushing your teeth, watching TV, or sitting at your desk. Avoid overworking your muscles, as this can lead to fatigue. Remember to breathe normally throughout the exercises, avoiding holding your breath.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using the wrong muscles can hinder progress. Ensure you’re only tightening your pelvic floor muscles, not your abdomen, thighs, or buttocks. Don’t skip the relaxation phase between contractions. Consistency is essential; make Kegels a regular part of your routine to see results.

Advanced Kegel Exercises

Once you’re comfortable with the basics, try more advanced techniques. Long hold Kegels involve gradually increasing the duration of each contraction to 10 seconds. Quick flicks, where you quickly contract and relax your pelvic floor muscles, help improve muscle endurance. For a challenge, imagine your pelvic floor as an elevator, lifting your muscles to different “floors” and holding at each level before gradually lowering them back down.

Kegel exercises are a simple yet effective way to strengthen your pelvic floor muscles, offering numerous health benefits. By incorporating these exercises into your daily routine, you can improve bladder control, reduce the risk of pelvic organ prolapse, and enhance sexual health. Consistency and proper technique are key to seeing results. Start today and take control of your pelvic health!

Start integrating Kegel exercises into your daily routine and experience the benefits. If you have any questions or need further guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out. Your pelvic health is important, and these small steps can make a big difference in your overall well-being.

By TheraTouch Blogs July 23, 2024 0 Comments Physio pelvic floor physiotherapy, pelvic health, pelvic health physiotherapy, women's health

What is diastasis recti and how can I treat it?

Every July around the world, we focus on Diastasis Awareness Month to shed light on diastasis recti, a condition where the abdominal muscles separate due to various factors. Often caused by pregnancy or significant weight gain, this separation leads to a protruding belly, lower back pain, and weakened core strength. These symptoms can disrupt daily activities and affect your overall well-being.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Catching diastasis recti early is vital for effective treatment. We all know early detection saves lives. Getting an early diagnosis from a healthcare professional, like a pelvic health physiotherapist, can lead to better outcomes and quicker recovery. These are some of the widely known symptoms;

Abdominal Bulge: This is the notice of a bulge or ridge running down your midline, especially when straining your muscles.

Lower Back Pain: Having a persistent lower back discomfort might indicate a weakened core this is normally associated with diastasis recti.

Difficulty with Core Exercises: Struggling with core-strengthening exercises can also be a red flag.

Steps to Manage and Heal Diastasis Recti

Taking proactive steps when diagnosed can make a big difference in managing diastasis recti. Here’s how to you can do this:

Educate Yourself: Understand diastasis recti by learning about its causes, symptoms, and treatments. Knowledge equips you to make informed decisions about your care.

Work with a Pelvic health physiotherapist: A pelvic health physiotherapist will design a personalized exercise plan to strengthen your core without worsening the separation.

Avoid High-Pressure Activities: Make sure to steer clear of heavy lifting and intense core exercises that increase abdominal pressure and could make the separation worse.

Maintain Good Posture: Having good posture reduces strain on your abdominal muscles and supports healing. Pay attention to your alignment throughout the day.

Wear Supportive Garments: Using an abdominal binder or support band can provide much-needed stability and comfort during recovery.

The Vital Role of Pelvic health physiotherapist

Pelvic health physiotherapist is essential for treating diastasis recti as they are expect on all matters pelvic floor dysfunction. Pelvic health physiotherapist focus on:

Core Strengthening: Participating in gentle exercises like pelvic tilts, modified planks, and deep abdominal breathing help you rebuild core strength.

Improving Posture: Pelvic health physiotherapists will teach you how to maintain proper alignment, which reduces stress on your abdomen and alleviates pain.

Gentle Recovery Exercises: Practicing safe exercises encourage muscle recovery without adding stress. These techniques gradually help bring your muscles back together.

Raising Awareness

Spreading awareness about diastasis recti is crucial. Many people don’t know about this condition or its impact. By using social media, hosting community workshops, and partnering with healthcare providers, we can educate the public and clear up misconceptions. Increased awareness leads to earlier diagnoses and better treatment options, improving many lives.

Supporting Those Affected

Supporting those with diastasis recti makes a huge difference. Here’s how you can help:

Share Information: You can provide accurate details about symptoms, treatment options, and recovery strategies.

Offer Emotional Support: Encourage open conversations among your friends and community to reduce stigma and isolation. Listening and offering empathy can be incredibly helpful. Let people know you are always there for them.

Join Support Groups: Connecting with others who share similar experiences provides valuable advice and encouragement. Misery loves company and so does people. Form a support group if you can.

Celebrating Strength and Recovery

Diastasis Recti Awareness Month is a time to celebrate the strength and resilience of those affected. Their recovery journeys inspire us all. By raising awareness, offering support, and advocating for better care, we can positively impact many lives.

Let’s use this month to educate, support, and inspire action towards a world where diastasis recti is well-understood and effectively treated. Together, we can ensure that diastasis recti no longer hinders anyone from living a healthy, active life. Spread love and kindness whenever you get a chance.

By TheraTouch Blogs July 17, 2024 0 Comments Physio chronic pain, pelvic floor dysfunction, pelvic floor physiotherapy, pelvic health, pelvic health physiotherapy, women's health

5 Signs That You Should See A Pelvic Floor Physiotherapist

Hello there! Let’s take a moment to discuss a crucial aspect of our health, our pelvic floor and when to see a pelvic floor physiotherapist. Sometimes, our bodies send us subtle signals that something might be off, and it’s important to pay attention to those hints. If you’ve ever wondered whether it’s time to see a pelvic floor physiotherapist, here are five clear signs that it might be time to book that appointment. Let’s dive in!

No. 1 When you have leaks while sneezing, coughing, or laughing

Ever been in the middle of a hearty laugh or a big sneeze, only to find yourself frantically trying to hold things together? If you’re dealing with unexpected leaks when you sneeze, cough, or laugh, you might be experiencing what’s known as stress urinary incontinence. This happens when your pelvic floor muscles can’t quite keep up with the pressure of everyday activities. But don’t worry, there’s help! A pelvic floor physiotherapist can work with you to strengthen these muscles through specialized exercises.0 With their guidance, you can build up your muscle strength and regain that feeling of control, so you can sneeze or laugh without a second thought.

No.2 When you experience uncontrollable gas or pelvic noises

Have you ever been in a quiet setting and heard an unexpected noise from your pelvic area? These little sounds can be more than just awkward and embarrassing; they can signal that your pelvic floor muscles aren’t working in harmony like they should. This is where a pelvic floor physiotherapist comes in. They’ll help you get to the root of the issue with techniques designed to improve muscle coordination and control. You will be learning techniques to manage those noises.

No.3. When You Feel a Heaviness or Pressure in your Pelvic area.

Imagine this: you’ve been on your feet for a while, or you’ve just gone for a long walk, and you start to feel a strange heaviness or pressure in your pelvic area. This feeling can be more than just a nuisance; it could be a sign of pelvic organ prolapse. This happens when the pelvic organs start to descend because the pelvic floor muscles are too weak to support them. A pelvic floor physiotherapist can offer you targeted exercises to help strengthen those muscles and alleviate the pressure you’re feeling. They might also introduce you to tools like a pessary or suggest lifestyle adjustments.

No.4. When Intimacy Feels More Painful Than Pleasurable

Intimacy should be a source of joy and connection, but if you’re experiencing pain during sex, it’s a sign that something might be wrong with your pelvic floor. This condition, known as dyspareunia, means your pelvic floor muscles might be too tight or not functioning as they should. A pelvic floor physiotherapist can help you navigate this sensitive issue with compassion and expertise. They’ll teach you relaxation exercises and stretches specifically designed to ease muscle tension. Additionally, they offer valuable insights into pelvic floor health and provide strategies to make intimacy a more enjoyable experience.

No.5. Rapid Bathroom Breaks

Do you find yourself spending more time in the bathroom than you’d like? Whether it’s frequent trips to the toilet, struggling with constipation, or feeling like you can never fully empty your bladder, these issues are often signs of pelvic floor dysfunction. A pelvic floor physiotherapist is your go to expert for addressing these bathroom troubles. They’ll work with you to develop a customized plan that might include exercises for strength, bladder training techniques, and dietary advice to improve your symptoms. With their help, you can get your bathroom routine back on track and feel more at ease.

Your pelvic floor plays a vital role in your overall health and well-being. If any of these signs resonate with you, it might be time to reach out to a pelvic floor physiotherapist. They’re here to help you strengthen, heal, and regain control so you can enjoy life to the fullest. Listen to your body and take that first step toward a more comfortable and confident you!

If you are looking for a good pelvic floor physiotherapist, TheraTouch Physiotherapy is committed to helping you on your journey to pelvic wellness. It is located at 2249 Carling Avenue, Suite 201, on the second floor of the Carling Corporate Centre, conveniently close to Carlingwood Shopping Centre.

By TheraTouch Blogs July 11, 2024 0 Comments Physio

Juvenile Arthritis: Causes, Symptoms, Treatments

Every July, we celebrate Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month. This sheds light on the challenges faced by kids and teens dealing with juvenile arthritis. Unlike adult arthritis from wear and tear, this condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. It leads to constant pain, swelling, stiffness, and sometimes fever and tiredness, making everyday activities like walking and playing tough.

Why Early Help Matters

Getting diagnosed early is crucial. Specialists called pediatric rheumatologists are experts in diagnosing and planning treatments for kids. Treatments often include medicines to reduce swelling, physical therapy to keep joints moving well, and sometimes surgery. The goal is to help kids with juvenile arthritis live active lives without the condition getting in the way.

Research is vital for understanding and treating it. Scientists are working to find out what causes it, create new treatments, and even find a cure. Supporting research during this Awareness Month helps fund these important efforts, bringing hope to families affected by this condition.

The Role of Physiotherapy

Physiotherapy is key for managing juvenile arthritis. Physiotherapists create exercises that build strength, keep joints flexible, and reduce pain. They also teach ways to protect joints during daily activities and keep good posture. Fun activities like stretching and gentle aerobic exercises keep kids engaged and motivated.

Spreading the Word

It’s important to raise awareness about juvenile arthritis. Many people don’t realize kids can get arthritis and may mistake symptoms for growing pains. Using social media, community events, and working with doctors can help spread the right information. Diagnosing arthritis early means better treatment and happier kids.

Helping Families

Families dealing with this face challenges like finding good healthcare and managing stress. Special organizations offer support, information, and even financial help. Highlighting these resources during this Awareness Month helps families find the support they need.

Tips for Handling Juvenile Arthritis

If you’re a parent or caregiver, you can do a lot to help manage your child’s arthritis:

Learn About It: Understanding it helps you make better choices for your child’s care.

Stick to a Routine: A daily plan that includes medicine, exercise, and rest can help manage symptoms.

Encourage Moving: Gentle exercises like swimming or yoga strengthen muscles and keep joints flexible.

Watch Their Diet: Foods like fruits and veggies that fight inflammation are good, while sugary snacks and processed foods can make things worse.

Use Heat and Cold Warm baths or cold packs can ease pain and stiffness.

Mind Their Feelings: Living with arthritis can be tough emotionally too. Keep communication open and consider counseling if needed.

Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month celebrates the bravery of kids and families facing this challenge. Their stories inspire us to raise awareness, improve treatments, and support each other. Together, we can create a future where it doesn’t hold back any child.

By TheraTouch Blogs July 3, 2024 0 Comments Physio Drinking water, Health, Hydration, Summer

How Much Water Do I Need to Drink Daily?

Ever feel sluggish, cranky, or find it hard to concentrate? It might not just be a bad day; you could be dehydrated. Water is essential for almost every function in our bodies, yet many of us don’t drink enough. Let’s chat about why hydration matters, how to figure out how much water you really need, and some easy, practical tips to keep your hydration game strong, especially during this summer.

Why Hydration Matters

Water does so much for our bodies. It regulates body temperature, keeps joints lubricated, transports nutrients, and helps flush out waste. Staying well-hydrated can boost your mood, energy levels, and even help you think more clearly. On the flip side, dehydration can lead to headaches, fatigue, dry skin, and more serious problems like kidney stones and urinary tract infections. So, getting enough water each day is a big deal for your overall health.

How Much Water Do You Need?

A common question is, “How much water should I drink?” The answer can vary, but here’s a simple formula to get you started:

Take your weight in pounds and divide it by 2. That number is the amount of fluid you should aim to drink in ounces each day. For instance, if you weigh 150 pounds, you should be drinking about 75 ounces of water daily.

Keep in mind, this is a general guideline. Your needs might be higher if you’re active, live in a hot climate, or are pregnant or breastfeeding. The key is to listen to your body and adjust your intake as needed.

Summer and Hydration

Staying hydrated becomes even more critical during the summer. The hot weather increases your body’s need for fluids, as you sweat more to stay cool. It’s easy to become dehydrated without realizing it, especially if you’re spending time outdoors or exercising. Drinking plenty of water can help you avoid heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which are serious conditions caused by dehydration and overheating.

Easy Tips to Stay Hydrated

Start your day with a glass of water. It’s a great way to wake up your body and replenish fluids lost overnight. Keeping a reusable water bottle with you throughout the day can make it easier to take sips regularly. If you’re the forgetful type, set reminders on your phone or use a hydration app to nudge you to drink water at regular intervals.

If plain water isn’t your thing, jazz it up! Infusing your water with fruits like berries, or herbs like mint can make it more enjoyable. The plus is, you get to experiment with different flavors. Eating water-rich foods can also help boost your hydration. Fruits like watermelon, oranges, and strawberries, and vegetables like cucumbers and lettuce, are not only delicious but also help keep you hydrated.

Pay attention to your body’s signals. One simple way to check your hydration is by looking at the color of your urine. If it’s pale yellow, you’re likely well-hydrated. If it’s dark yellow or amber, it’s time to drink more water.

Seek Professional Advice

While these tips are helpful for most people, it’s important to talk to a healthcare professional if you have specific health concerns or conditions that affect your hydration needs. Conditions like heart disease, kidney issues, or electrolyte imbalances can require personalized hydration strategies. If you experience symptoms of dehydration like dizziness, extreme thirst, infrequent urination, or confusion, seek medical advice right away.

Hydration is a cornerstone of good health. By understanding your body’s fluid needs and incorporating simple habits to meet them, you can significantly improve your well-being. Use the weight-based formula to calculate your daily fluid intake, listen to your body’s signals, and make hydration a priority in your daily routine.

Staying hydrated doesn’t have to be a chore. With a little mindfulness and effort, it can become a seamless part of your lifestyle, helping you feel your best every day. So, especially as we dive into the hot summer days, let’s make sure we’re staying hydrated. Cheers to your health, one sip at a time!

Month: July 2024