Foot Pain? It Could Be Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is probably the most common musculoskeletal concern that podiatrists see. Plantar fasciitis (pronounced “fash-ee-eye-tis”) is an inflammatory condition of the plantar fascia. This is a band of tissue that runs along the base of the foot from the heel to the ball of the foot. It plays a role in maintaining the foot’s arch. It also helps to create energy efficiency when walking and running. With overuse, or excessive pressure, the fascia can become irritated and inflamed.
Dos and Don’ts: Technology & Kids
Technology & Your Kids: Maximize the Good, Minimize the Bad
Technology is fully integrated and essential to our lives. This is probably even more so in China where we can do almost any task from our phones. For kids, technology can be a tool for school, learning and development. On the other hand, without proper supervision and limits, children can suffer negative effects. When technology is overused, kids show a decline in creativity. They start to prefer technology to playing outside or with other kids. They lose practice interacting with groups, thus stunting social skills. And, some video games have been shown to influence aggressive thoughts and behavior.
Pregnancy Pain Relief
In the third trimester, many women experience discomfort due to the body’s changes. The belly becomes large and puts pressure on the pelvic floor. The hormones are preparing the body for childbirth by relaxing the ligaments, fascia, and muscles. Unfortunately, that same natural process weakens core muscles and changes the dynamics of the body. The lower back compensates with higher tension as the center of gravity shifts forward. Additionally, carrying extra weight around means more work for muscles and stress on joints.
Reduced Stress and Pain: The Experience of Lama Fera Healing
Lama fera is a powerful energy healing technique that has been used by Buddhist monks in the Himalayas for centuries. I recently had the chance to experience its benefits. Lama fera is known for removing negative energies to produce physical and emotional healing. The technique is based on the Buddha’s teachings, but the session itself is not religious/does not require you to be Buddhist.
How to Stay at the Top of Your Game
Injury and Pain: Prevention and Treatment Gym and sports injuries often bring people to the osteopath. With a work hard, play hard lifestyle common in Shanghai, pain usually stems from the workplace or workouts. Sitting for long hours is hard on the body . A sedentary lifestyle...
Travel Rx: Staying Healthy on Holiday
Golden Week is approaching and many will make the most of it and travel around. Travel can be demanding on the body, especially when crossing several time zones. Nothing derails great holiday plans more quickly than illness or a serious case of jet lag. Here are a few of the most common problems brought on by the rigors of travel and some tips and solutions.
Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes (diabetes mellitis) is a condition involving the pancreas. The pancreas is the organ that produces the hormone insulin, which is responsible for converting sugar, or glucose into energy for our body. Diabetes is a condition where the body either doesn’t produce enough insulin, or is completely incapable of producing it. As a result, sugars can be left to circulate through the blood stream, and can only be removed through our urine.
The Text Neck Epidemic
Our heads weighs about 10-11 pounds (4.5-5 kg). As the neck bends forward, the pressure of that weight on the cervical spine increases exponentially. At a 15-degree angle the effective weight is 27 lbs. and at a 60 degree angle it is 60 lbs. That’s as if an 8-year-old was sitting on your neck!
Pampering, Pedicures….Problems!
Many people enjoy going to the spa or nail salon for a foot massage and pedicure. It’s a wonderful way to relax and treat your tired feet. But, as a podiatrist I see the downside of this pampering treatment. Patients sometimes come in with problems picked up at the nail salon such as sharp pieces of nail cutting into the toe, improperly cut/ingrown nails, infections and even injury.
Back To School: Tips for a Smooth Transition
Getting back to school may feel like a relief after long summer holidays. Many parents and kids are happy to return to a comfortable routine. But, like all change, going back to school can come with challenges. Your child might be starting school in a new country or returning from significant time in your home country. This could be the year you’ve chosen a new school. Or, the transition to upper grades, a new teacher or new classmates might be a source of anxiety. How can you help your child make a smooth adjustment?