Touchmatters Manual Therapy

11/19/2024

fb is abound with fraudsters cloning your face to open false accounts and to get your friends to be their "friends" be aware. I will not reach out to you to accept me as a friend. If you get a request from me ... it is a clone not me, do not accept the friend request. I only post information that I hope helps you , your friends, colleagues and so on. Feel free to pass these information pieces along. Thanks for sharing and letting others know about my clinical practice helping people resolve their physical pain.
Kind regards,
Sandra RMT

10/28/2024

Stop Icing! Those acute soft tissue injuries

If you read the title of this brief newsletter and are wondering if it is a typo, the answer is no.

Let's use an ankle sprain as the example

Recent research has indicated that there appears to be no evidence that indicates that using ice, is superior to not using ice, in reducing pain or increasing function in the acute stage of a soft tissue injury like an ankle sprain.
For those of you who cringe at the idea of putting ice on your ankle sprain and prefer heat, you can now choose which ever feels better to use. If you want to continue to use ice, go ahead.

The R.I.C.E. acronym of Rest, Ice, Compress, Elevate has been replaced with PEACE and LOVE.
In the first 24-48 hours of the ankle sprain
P= protect
E= elevate
A= avoid anti-inflammatories like NSAIDS ( they can actually delay healing)
C=compression
E= education , avoid the use of medications to try to speed the healing process. Evidence indicates the meds actually don't speed the healing process. It is normal to expect 4-6 or 8 week recovery period.
In the 48- 72 hour period LOVE is used
L= load and reload, gently start using the joint and let pain be your guide, pushing through may re-injure.
O= Optimism is key, your state of mind will influence how you experience your pain. Positive mindset can reduce pain levels and support recovery.
V= vascularization (blood flow) is important in the healing of any soft tissue injury. Aerobic exercise using cross-fit activities is best at this stage. Stationary bike or pool work will increase circulation which contains the chemistry required for healing to occur.
E= exercises; begin strengthening, getting full range of motion of the joint and regaining the balance awareness of that joint. This can begin slowly and paced with how the soft tissues are healing.

What I offer, is Integrative Manual Therapy (IMT), Cranial Therapy, and Fascial Dynamic Manual Therapy (FDMT).
The therapeutic approach I offer is gentle and delivered through the clothes.
These therapies can stand alone or be combined, providing a comprehensive treatment solution.

Sandra McCarthy
134 Codrington Street, Barrie, ON, L4M 1S1
https://www.touchmatters.ca/
705 795 1047
Book Appointment
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03/25/2024

NORA'S FIRST VISIT

Nora sat in the waiting room of the healthcare clinic, her mind buzzing with anticipation and a touch of nervousness. She had recently moved to be closer to her sister after her husband's passing, and now, at 56 years old, she was embarking on the journey to find a new healthcare team.

As someone who had spent years in health research, particularly focused on supporting healthy aging, Nora was acutely aware of the subtle biases that could affect the quality of care she received as she grew older. Her salt and pepper curly hair framed her smiling blue eyes, and she exuded a sense of vitality despite the recent changes in her life.

When her name was called, Nora stood up and followed the nurse into the examination room, where she would meet her new physician for the first time. Dr. Patel entered the room with a warm smile, and Nora felt relieved at his friendly demeanour.

"Hello, Nora. I'm Dr. Patel. It's a pleasure to meet you," he greeted her, extending his hand.
"Nice to meet you too, Dr. Patel," Nora replied, shaking his hand. "I'm looking forward to establishing a good healthcare relationship here."

As they settled into the conversation, Nora decided to gently steer the discussion toward her concerns about ageism and the importance of patient-centred care.

Notice how Nora speaks with her new doctor, informing him of her values and beliefs while cultivating a working relationship that best meets her healthcare needs.

"I've been fortunate to maintain good health so far, but I understand the importance of finding a healthcare team that values a patient-centred approach," Nora began, her tone warm yet purposeful. "In my experience, I've found that incorporating naturopathy and manual therapies like massage therapy and physiotherapy has been beneficial in preventing health issues."

Dr. Patel nodded attentively, showing genuine interest in Nora's approach to healthcare. "That's great to hear, Nora. It's important for us to consider all aspects of your health and well-being. Can you tell me more about how these therapies have helped you?"

This nicely lets her doctor know how she would prefer the working relationship to grow, and he shares her philosophy of care.

Nora smiled, grateful for the opportunity to share her experiences. "Absolutely. I've found that these therapies address specific health concerns and contribute to my overall sense of well-being. I believe in taking a proactive approach to my health, and I hope to work collaboratively with you to ensure that my healthcare plan reflects that."

Dr. Patel listened attentively, asking thoughtful questions and showing a genuine curiosity about Nora's holistic approach to health. As their conversation continued, Nora felt reassured that she had found a physician who respected her preferences and shared her commitment to patient-centred care.

As Nora and Dr. Patel continued their conversation about her approach to healthcare, Nora decided to delve deeper into understanding Dr. Patel's perspectives and strategies regarding age-related biases and shared decision-making.

There now is common ground to explore more openly some of Nora's concerns about her healthcare needs as she ages.

"I'm glad we're on the same page about the importance of patient-centred care," Nora said with a smile. "I'm curious, Dr. Patel, how do you address potential biases or stereotypes that may impact the quality of care provided to patients across different age groups?"

Dr. Patel paused thoughtfully before responding, "That's an excellent question, Nora. As a physician, I believe in treating each patient as an individual with unique needs and circumstances. I actively work to challenge any biases or stereotypes that may arise and ensure that all my patients receive equitable and personalized care."

Her doctor, by his response, is more fully engaged, and it is clear to him that Nora has put thought into this new relationship by the questions she is asking.

Nora nodded in appreciation, encouraged by Dr. Patel's commitment to addressing potential biases in healthcare. She then shifted the conversation to the topic of shared decision-making, another crucial aspect of patient-centred care.

"Can you share with me, Dr. Patel, what strategies you employ to promote shared decision-making with patients of all ages, considering their individual circumstances and goals?" Nora asked, her curiosity evident in her tone.

Dr. Patel leaned forward slightly, showing his engagement with the topic. "Shared decision-making is a cornerstone of my practice. I believe in involving patients in their healthcare journey by providing them with comprehensive information, discussing treatment options, and considering their values and preferences.

This collaborative approach ensures that patients are empowered to make informed decisions that align with their goals and priorities."

Nora was able to ask more in depth questions like this one "what steps do you take to foster a trusting and collaborative relationship with patients, especially those who may have experienced age-related discrimination in healthcare settings before?"

Nora felt reassured by Dr. Patel's emphasis on shared decision-making, knowing she would be actively involved in her healthcare decisions under his care. Before concluding their meeting, Nora inquired about Dr. Patel's experience and training in gerontology or geriatric medicine.

"Dr. Patel, can you tell me your experience and training in gerontology or geriatric medicine, and how it influences your practice when caring for older patients?" Nora asked, eager to learn more about his background.

Dr. Patel nodded, recognizing the importance of Nora's question. "I have received specialized training in gerontology and geriatric medicine, which has equipped me with the knowledge and skills to address the unique healthcare needs of older patients. My experience in this field guides
my practice, ensuring I provide comprehensive and compassionate care tailored to each patient's age-related considerations."

Nora felt a sense of trust and confidence in Dr. Patel's expertise and approach to caring for older patients. As their conversation ended, she knew she had found a doctor who respected her preferences and prioritized equitable and patient-centred care for individuals of all ages.
By the end of their meeting, Nora was confident that she had taken the first step in building a positive and respectful healthcare relationship that would support her in maintaining her health and vitality as she navigated this new chapter of her life.

This is an example of a good conversation that revealed the patient’s health philosophy, the level of her own self-agency, and her health habits to date. With clear, topic-focused questions, she could determine where the doctor’s philosophy of care would be with her.

This was an example of an ideal situation where a new relationship is being forged between doctor and patient. I have listened to many clients in my practice who have wanted a doctor/patient relationship just like the one Nora is developing with her doctor.

Your need, and the training and health culture that your doctor comes from may be very different and not align at all. The idea is to find common ground. For many, because of doctor shortages, the idea of changing doctors is not possible. You may encounter challenging views from others about your health practices that you know work for you.

Those challenges may come from health practitioners, family, and others in your life. If you can name the benefits, speak with clarity and know not everyone will agree, sometimes that is the best you can expect.

The common ground is important to establish as you approach different ages and stages of life, the health challenges that come and before you encounter a serious health crisis and are concerned about how your doctor can support you. Consider using some of the questions that Nora asked her new doctor to get clarity on the relationship you have with your doctor.

Be kind to yourself,

My clinical practice offers a trauma-informed approach to physical pain. If, with best efforts, your pain is persisting, this manual therapy approach to care may be the missing piece.

03/05/2024

The Story of Jane and Carol

As Jane and Carol sit down for their long overdue catch-up over coffee, they exchange tales of their hectic lives, intertwined with subtle nods of understanding as each recounts their health woes. Jane, at 46, mentions her persistent anxiety and foggy thinking and has more difficulty with some of her co-workers. "and I'm only 46, but I feel old and tired.

I exercise, I think I am eating right and still I don't feel like I want too." At the same time, Carol, at 50, shares her struggles with digestive issues, sleep disturbances, high blood pressure, and "I have pain that seems to come and go, energy and passion for life seems to have disappeared."

"I totally get it", Jane empathizes, " I've been feeling the same way; lately, life seems harder. I used to be able to deal with anything, but I feel overwhelmed and reacting everywhere. I have also tried different types of manual therapy to help, sometimes it works and sometimes it doesn't."

As they delve deeper into their shared experiences, Carol tentatively brings up a concept she recently read about called embodied trauma.

She explains, " it's not the experience itself that's traumatic, but how our nervous system reacts and labels it." She describes how unresolved traumas can leave the autonomic nervous system stuck in a hypervigilant state, constantly on guard like a perpetually triggered fight-or-flight response. "it's like our bodies are held captive by those past traumas," Carol muses, "and until we address them, it's hard for these symptoms to truly go away .

Can you picture yourself sharing similar stories with people in your life?

What Jane and Carol are talking about, is that their sympathetic nervous system dominates their body's autonomic responses, creating persistent physical symptoms and interfering with their quality of life.

This state is best known for responding to dangerous or stressful situations. When activated, your heart speeds up to deliver oxygen-rich blood, eyesight improves, digestion slows, energy stores in your liver are activated to improve your strength and endurance, and hormones like cortisol, adrenalin, and acetylcholine are released into your blood stream.

When the threat has passed , it is your vagus nerve (parasympathetic nervous system) that returns you to a relaxed state.

When there is healthy balance between the action mode and the relax mode, the symptoms that Jane and Carol are describing often diminish or resolve completely.

They would also feel 'safer' in their body and in the world. They would have clarity with self-agency, challenges would not overwhelm them, social interactions at work, home, friends would be navigated more easily. They would feel calmer, happier and have a greater sense of wellness.

I hear these types of stories often in my clinical practice. When I meet clients for the first time, I share that what I offer is "trauma-informed" manual therapy. In essence, if the nervous system is stuck in hyper-vigilance, it is very difficult for persistent physical symptoms to resolve. The history of trauma can be know or not known to the client, and when the effects land in the body, it is now a vigilant landscape where physical systems can be strained to function well.

Vigilance is the first thing I look for before addressing the physical restrictions in the connective tissue that may be limiting ideal movement, interfering with electrical signalling, fluid flow, or causing pain.

Unless the vigilant state is dealt with, healthy changes at a physical level will be more difficult to achieve.

Do you know a Jane or Carol in your life who is struggling with physical symptoms and still looking for a way through?

Have them reach out to me, share this newsletter with them,if it feels right, share this information through your social media platforms.

When we share our own stories, it can be a life changer for others .

02/13/2024

How aware are you of the importance of every breath you take?

Breathe in on 4, Hold for 6, Exhale for 8

Oxygen is essential for producing energy in our cells, enabling us to perform various physiological functions. When you take deep and controlled breaths, this promotes better oxygenation of the blood.

This, in turn, helps your heart pump oxygen-rich blood more efficiently to various organs and tissues, supporting cardiovascular health and reducing the risk of heart-related issues.

Proper breathing techniques, such as deep diaphragmatic breathing, activate the body's relaxation response. This helps reduce stress hormones like cortisol and promotes a sense of calmness, contributing to overall mental well-being.

Breathing also impacts your lung health as well. Regular deep breathing exercises enhance lung capacity and improve gas exchange efficiency. This is crucial for maintaining healthy lung function and preventing respiratory issues.

Deep relaxed breathing enhancing cognitive function, concentration, and overall mental clarity. It's a simple yet powerful way to boost productivity and cognitive performance.

Deep breathing stimulate the lymphatic system, removing waste and promoting a healthier immune system. Deep breathing can increase your endurance and enhance athletic performance maximizing oxygen delivery to muscles.

Deep, rhythmic breathing can induce relaxation, making it easier to fall asleep and promoting better sleep quality. It helps reduce stress and anxiety, often hindering a good night's sleep.

Your body consumes about 250 millilitres (ml) of oxygen per minute at rest. During physical activity or exercise, this demand can significantly increase. Red blood cells transport oxygen to various tissues and organs, ensuring they receive the necessary supply for optimal function.

Now the mls per minute of oxygen use at rest may not mean much, so here is the analogy that may put the importance of breathing well, into perspective for you:

To put this into perspective, imagine if oxygen were a currency for your cells. In 24 hours, the average person's body would "spend" approximately 360,000 litres of oxygen. That's equivalent to filling up a standard-sized swimming pool! Like we manage our finances to meet daily needs, our bodies intricately regulate oxygen intake to sustain life and support various activities.

I have included this link for you to watch, which is a close approximation of how your ribs, diaphragm, muscles of your ribcage and back move as you breathe.

https://www.instagram.com/p/C2dA8HOPV0M/

Sandra McCarthy
134 Codrington Street, Barrie, ON, L4M 1S1

https://www.touchmatters.ca/
705 795 1047
Book Appointment

Individuals seek treatment for recurrent injuries, unresolved pain or to proactively combat the negative effects of stress in their lives. Combining extensive post graduate education and clinical experience I use a variety of therapeutic tools; Fascial Dynamics Manual Therapy (FDMT), Integrative Man...

01/15/2024

Welcome to 2024 ! A new start, perhaps a clear vision of what is ahead for you and your family. No matter what your goals are for this year, regularly attending to what keeps you in good health is foundational.

Staying healthy should not feel hard. Will effort and some dedication be required? yes and you'll feel good that you are investing in you for today and these health practices will give you leverage to age well with vibrancy, strength and clarity.

Keep the cold and flu from your door

Here is a "cold cure" recipe for a hot drink where all the ingredients are in your pantry or fridge. If you are wanting to boost your immunity in cold and flu season, here is the web address for this recipe

https://www.chefbai.kitchen/blog/coldcure

(Makes 25 cubes)
1 tbsp tumeric powder
1 tbsp cinnamon
1 tsp cayenne
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
2 whole lemons (rind removed)
1 cup fresh ginger
5-6 cloves garlic, peeled
12 oz. water

zip all of this up in your blender until smooth, fill ice cube tray and freeze for 6 hrs. To make tea fill your cup with boiled water and add one cold cure cube. Add honey to taste or drink it straight up and wild !

I have also included a link to a chart that outlines activities that keep you cognitively sharp.

aptageriatrics.org/wp-content/upl

Now you may look at this chart and say "BORING". Don't let the link title put you off. If you go through the list you may find that many of these tasks are found in board or card games you play ! Yep get people together and play board games regularly. There are many out there that challenge your mind and are fun to play !

Have a games night with your family or friends. get together weekly have snacks and play a board or card game.
Here are some board games to consider: Catan, Trivial Pursuit, Ticket to Ride, Scrabble, Clue, Betrayal at House on the Hill, Codenames.

We particularly like ""Code Names" in our house!

Feel free to share this newsletter with your friends, neighbours and colleagues who may benefit.

Appointments are available, booking online is easy and fast.

We are committed to building a community that advances the profession of physical therapy to optimize the experience of ageing.

11/09/2021

My first video with a message for you - https://mailchi.mp/15122c4187f5/my-first-video-with-a-message-for-you

09/14/2021

09/14/2021

This is a short video of my practice, what I offer, what those have said about this specialized form of manual therapy. If you are looking for pain relief or know someone who is, this may be for you.