I have been practicing yoga for over 7 years now and felt it was finally time to learn what was hiding behind our mats and our physical practice. Learning more about yoga has heightened my awareness of what the human body is capable of.  Blending Physiotherapy and Yoga enables me to look at the whole body from more than just an anatomical perspective. ​

What is happening? Why is this such a contentious issue? Why is it getting so much attention? Should I be concerned about my own kids? What can I do to protect my kids?

As a parent and physiotherapist these issues are of interest to me. As a former volleyball collegiate athlete I reflect on my own experience and wonder what has changed?

Why do we put our kids into organized sport? I think most parents would ultimately say for fun. Did you know the number one reason kids quit sports? It is no longer fun!

“Core /kôr/ noun, the central or most important part of something.”
Yes, by definition it is a perfect name for the core muscles of the human body.  You’ve heard about the importance of having strong core muscles but do you really know how to engage them?  From what I’ve seen in my practice as a Physiotherapist, I would say the majority need some assistance. ​

“Happy new year!”  It’s an inherently positive message meaning let’s look forward to a bright new start but you can’t see the horizon (much less what’s in front of you) if you’re looking at the ground.   Over my twenty years in Physiotherapy practice, I have seen the decline in people’s posture in general.  About 90% of my patients have arrived with poor posture and likely posture was a contributing factor to their ailments in 70% of those patients. ​

​Winter is in the air.  And that means skiers and boarders have one thing on their minds, hitting the slopes.  As more and more British Columbians hit the slopes, it’s important to make sure participants have fun and remain pain and injury free. Always wear a helmet and ensure your equipment has been checked and tuned for the season.  Whether you’re cruising a green run or racing through the gates, your physiotherapist can create a ski fit program that’s right for you.  If you experience pain during or after skiing or boarding, your physiotherapist can help.

Hockey is truly Canada’s passion, NHL or no NHL.  Before you (or your child) even step on to the ice make sure you are well equipped.  Wear a mouth guard and a good quality helmet that fits you and is adjusted properly.  Getting fitted with the right equipment will help prevent injury from muscle imbalance, flying pucks, body contact and accidental collisions.  If you feel pain during or after playing hockey, your physiotherapist can help. ​

Pregnancy and early motherhood can be hard on your body. Seek advice early on from your physiotherapist for tools to reduce pain during and after pregnancy. Exercising while pregnant will help strengthen and prepare your body for the birth. Continuing to exercise after your baby is born will help ensure you are able to care for your newborn and regain your fitness. Your physiotherapist can create an exercise program that meets your individual goals and help reduce pain during and after your pregnancy. ​

​Summer holidays are over. The long trek back to school and work is beginning. Here are a few tips to consider when carrying a heavy load to and from work or when selecting a backpack for your child. By following these simple tips you can help minimize injury and alleviate the pain of carrying a heavy load.  If you feel pain during or after carrying a heavy load, your physiotherapist can help.

​Compared to other sports, swimming has a relatively low risk of injury. However, the most common body part injured while swimming is the shoulder. Shoulder pain can be caused by muscle overuse, incorrect technique or swimming only one stroke during every workout. Whatever the reason, these factors can lead to shoulder discomfort and injury, most commonly rotator cuff tendinitis.  If you experience shoulder pain during or after swimming, your physiotherapist can help.