Wow, I can’t believe Vitality Clinic has had it’s doors open for 13 years already!  It fills me with immense pride, joy, and gratitude when I think of all the amazing patients, staff, and Practitioners who have walked through these doors.

As a Chiropractor, I love knowing I’m making a difference in someone’s health, but what has me smiling the most at the end of the day is knowing I have had the privilege of being able to share in so many personal and professional accomplishments. I relish in hearing your stories of health, engagements, marriages, births, death, and even divorce because it makes me feel connected to and part of your lives.  Thank you SO much for sharing these with me!

Another aspect of what I love about being a Chiropractor and Vitality Clinic’s owner is that every time someone walks through Vitality’s doors, I have the opportunity to learn.  I am still continuing to grow as a person, owner, and Practitioner and each new story or experience provides me with additional knowledge to learn from.

I know I speak on behalf of all staff and Practitioners’ at VC when I say we look forward to continuing to provide you with the best possible care we can and wish you much success in 2018.

All the best and see you soon,
Dr. Crysta Serné
Vancouver Chiropractor and owner of Vitality Clinic

Sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words.  I thought they were fitting as it is Labour Day and all.

Enjoy Labour Day!
Dr. Crysta Serné
Vancouver Chiropractor and owner of Vitality Clinic

I have been pondering this thought now for a number of years. Actually, 13 to be exact… ever since the government chose to discontinue paramedical services (chiropractic, massage therapy, naturopathy, acupuncture, etc) as part of the Medical Services Plan (MSP). Yes, some patients are eligible to receive MSP premium assistance and I am pleased to offer that option whenever possible. However, the majority of patients walking through our doors pay private fees and are then reimbursed through their extended health plans. I often akin our profession to retail services- we are selling ourselves, our profession, and our belief system, and we have to market ourselves accordingly. We have to ensure that we provide exemplary service or the patient will take their money and go elsewhere.

Yay!!

I am not sad or disappointed by this revelation. In fact, I am delighted by it as it means that we have to work even harder to make sure we provide the best care we possibly can to our patients. And just like retail, you might like the feel of a sweater better in one store than in another – they both offer the same type of sweater, but one is just a little more to your liking.

So what sets me apart from any other Chiropractor? You will NEVER here me say I am better than any other individual is. Not only is that egotistical and unkind, but it’s also completely unethical. Instead, let me offer you some insight into what I do. Then you can make the decision for yourself.

I LOVE what I do. It’s what gets me up in the morning, well aside from my meowing cats and 15 month old son… I have an unyielding passion for my craft that energizes me- it pushes me to want to expand my knowledge base, explore new ideas, and constantly do better. I love that I am able to bear witness to the evolution of so many life events- graduations, marriages, and births. Sure, I adjust almost any body part imaginable, and I rehabilitate almost any injury one can think. It is extremely rewarding to be able to offer this care, but all it takes is for one person in my day to say, “Wow, I feel better,” smile again, or say “What? I had no idea you adjusted ankles. Awesome!” to make me want to come back and do it all over again the next day.

I was taught the same information as any other Chiropractic graduate. Perhaps my brain processes the information differently and my hands feel things differently. Maybe that’s what sets me apart? All I know is that I never want to stop being a Chiropractor.

Have a great day!
Dr. Crysta Serné
Vancouver Chiropractor and owner of Vitality Clinic

To learn more about myself and the treatments I offer, please peruse through our articles and blogs.

Here are a few of my favourites:

Prairie Dog
4 Stretches for the Lower Back
Upper Body Stretches
Chiropractic is Not All About the “Crunch”
Understanding Coconut Oil
Epsom Salt Soaks
Plantar Fascitis
Industrial Athlete Explained

Here are a number of reasons to consider booking an appointment with our Registered Acupuncturist!

1. Improves muscle tone and dermal contraction
2. Helps to eliminate fine lines of the face and has a diminishing effect on larger wrinkles
3. Helps to reduce bags and sagging tendencies
4. Helps to eliminate edema and puffiness – by improving metabolism
5. Decreases the tendency towards sagging jowels, tightens the neck, reduces double chins, and lifts drooping eyelids
6. Improves acne (caused by hormonal imbalances) and tightens the pores
7. Increases local blood and lymph circulation, improves facial color
8. Reduces stress, helps menopause and PMS, and improves overall health and wellbeing
9. Retards hair loss and hair graying
10. Helps depression, anxiety, and aids in improving self-esteem
11. Reduces symptoms of toothache, TMJ, Trigeminal Neuralgia, and Bell’s Palsy
12. Helps sinus congestion and headaches, benefits the eyes, ears, thyroid, and brain

Have a great Day,

The Vitality Team

The body has a unique system of detoxification that involves both primary and secondary organs of excretion. The primary organs of excretion include the liver and intestines, the kidneys and the lungs. The major secondary organ of excretion is the skin and when the primary excretion pathways are blocked we can see symptoms such as acne and skin rashes to signify that the secondary means are being used.

The Liver
Most people associate detoxification with the liver and it is true that this organ plays a crucial role in the detoxification of harmful substances. There are two pathways of detoxification in the liver: phase one and phase two:

Phase One
• First step in the breakdown of substances
• The byproducts can sometimes be more harmful than the original substance
• This pathway often produces free radicals which are substaces that damage liver cells
• It requires antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and amino acids for proper functioning
• Lack of antioxidants and excess chemical exposure can cause overload of pathway
• Environmental contaminants in our air, food products, personal care products, and drugs (including alcohol and pharmaceutical), can overload this pathway increasing free radical damage and toxic buildup
• Substances at the end of this phase are still fat soluble and if the system is overloaded or not functioning properly (i.e. deficient in essential vitamins, and antioxidants), toxins will not get eliminated and instead will be stored in fat cells (brain, endocrine glands: testes, ovaries leading to hormonal imbalance)

Phase Two
• Conjugation pathway: liver cells further break down substances (drugs, hormones, toxins) making them water soluble and ready for excretion via the intestines and kidneys
• This pathway also requires antioxidants, vitamins, amino acids for proper functioning

If either phase one or phase two pathway is overloaded, the result is a build up of toxins in the body. These toxins are usually fat soluble and therefore are stored in fatty parts of the body. These areas include the brain (result: depression, anxiety, mental fog), and the endocrine organs (result: hormone imbalance such as infertility, PMS, severe menopausal symptoms, adrenal exhaustion). The build up of toxins is also implicated in cancer.

The Body
Although it is very important to improve and maintain liver function, it is important to realize that detoxification requires a whole body efficient system. As waste accumulates in the body it gets stored in the spaces between cells. In order for our body to work efficiently as a multi system unit there must be communication between each system. As the space fills up between cells, communication becomes increasingly more difficult and the system begins to shut down. In order to maintain proper cell to cell, organ to organ and system to system communication we must continually detoxify. This involves ridding the body cells of stored waste and toxins, reducing toxic exposure via diet and lifestyle choices, and ensuring that all the primary organs of excretion are functioning at optimal capacity. Excretion can be monitored by regular bowel movements, frequent urination, and regular exercise to ensure efficient and optimal lung capacity.

As naturopathic physicians we look at the whole body as a unit that works synergistically to detoxify the body. Detoxification is not a two week diet that cleans us up for the year and gets us on our way until next spring. It’s great to take some time every so often and do a “cleanse” by making some diet and lifestyle changes; however, cleansing and detoxifying are not the same thing. To really detoxify can take months, maybe even years depending on the toxic exposure and accumulation of an individual person. Just think of the number of years you have spent subjecting your body to toxic exposure: pesticides on the foods you eat, pollution in the air around you, drugs, alcohol, caffeine, cigarettes; the list is endless. Having the right guidance and support can make detoxification an efficient and productive process that will get you on your way to optimal health and wellness.

There are many benefits associated with a detoxified body, and conditions that may seem completely unrelated often resolve once the body is cleaned up and the toxins removed from between the cells. Conditions such as acne, headaches, fatigue, premenstrual symptoms, chronic pain, menopause, insomnia, joint pain, digestive disturbance and many more, all benefit from a detoxified body.

To learn more about proper cleansing and detoxification, please consider booking an appointment with Dr. Anstett, Naturopath.

Have a great day,

The Vitality Team

People are often concerned about what the next day may hold for them after receiving therapeutic massage. Of course different techniques and styles will vary from one therapist to the next as will each individual massage. One must not forget to include the clients health, pressure tolerance. prior or current injuries to the affected areas. The context of what is “normal” for post massage effects varies tremendously, however; there are some common reactions.

The most reported after effects are; tenderness to the touch, but no pain in movement, a bruised sensation with no visible cues, extreme thirst, sleepiness, grogginess, an increase of irritability, mild to moderate headache and muscle fatigue (please keep in mind that all reactions vary).

Along with the negative effects are the positive reinforcement of therapeutic massage. Those being a decrease in muscle tension, pain, headache, increase of mobility, sleep and flexibility.

As regular treatment progresses the negative effects should decrease quickly, which is another way to objectively ensure that the treatment is working effectively. There are also many ways to decrease the negative effects of post massage soreness or other concerns by being well hydrated before and after treatment, listening to ones body about rest and doing all appropriate homecare, if and when given by the therapist. Knowing what is expected is half the battle!

Have a great day,

The Vitality Team

Love the Skin You’re in!

Sometimes this may be hard to do. There are a lot of us with varying skin conditions such as acne, eczema, psoriasis, that can make it difficult for us to appreciate the value of our skin. Our skin has many important functions that contribute to our overall health and wellness. First and foremost it provides us with a protective barrier. As an important part of our immune system it shields us from many viruses and bacteria that we come in contact with, and prevents unwanted visitors from entering our bodies. It also protects us from chemical or mechanical assault. The skin contains sensory organs which assist in its regulatory function. Our body temperature is regulated by the skin, and our skin protects us against excessive fluid and electrolyte loss. All of these important functions make it necessary to nourish our skin and promote its optimal function. So how do we do this? For starters, eating a diet high in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, and limited in refined foods and simple sugars, will help our skin look and feel good. Also, it is important to drink ample water throughout the day to help to maintain moisture in the skin.

The following is a list of nutrients that are beneficial to the skin along with their food sources.

Water

Vitamin A

Necessary for the maintenance and repair of skin tissue.

Yellow and orange fruits and vegetables, dark green leafy vegetables, grains

Vitamin C

Reduce effect of harmful free radicals produced by smoke, sunlight, and pollution. Essential for synthesis of collagen (a component of skin).

Citrus fruits, bell peppers, broccoli, cauliflower, and leafy greens

Vitamin E

Reduce effect of harmful free radicals produced by smoke, sunlight, and pollution.

Oils, nuts, seeds, olives, spinach, and asparagus

Biotin

Supports healthy skin, hair, and nails through proper fat production.

Bananas, eggs, oatmeal, and rice

Selenium

As an antioxidant, may protect skin from sun damage.

Whole-grains, seafood, garlic, and eggs

Zinc

Encourages healing of skin. Reduces oil production and may be effective in controlling acne.

Oysters, lean meat, and poultry

Copper

Helps to develop elastin, the fibers that support skin skin structure from underneath.

Nuts, dried legumes, cereals, potatoes, vegetables, oysters. Deficiency is rare.

Essential Fatty Acids

Needed for the production of skin’s natural oil barrier.

Ocean going fish, nuts, seeds, vegetable oils, grains

If you are suffering from a skin ailment, your diet may be lacking one of the above mentioned nutrients. Try to eat a variety of the foods from the recommended food sources to ensure a well balanced diet.

Other tips for keeping our skin healthy include:

• Wear SPF 15 and keep skin covered in sun (try natural sunscreens with protective botanicals)
• Shower after sweating to wash away eliminated toxins from surface and prevent accumulation of bacteria
• Exfoliate whole body each day to remove dead skin cells
• Use gentle products to cleanse you skin

Sometimes we may be doing everything right for our skin and still we are burdened by chronic skin conditions. Poor skin health may also be a reflection of another weakened body system, such as the digestive, immune, or nervous systems. Working on the health of the whole body and underlying contributing factors, may also help to alleviate chronic skin conditions.

Remember that our skin is meant to work for us, so start doing some work for your skin!

Have a great week,

The Vitality Team

Having a hard time sleeping with the warmer weather?  With hotter nights upon us, many individuals are pulling their fans out of storage.  The key to having fans work to their maximal efficiency is dependent on where you position them in the room.  A fan should never be pointed directly at you, especially when you are sleeping.  This could potentially cool down one side of the body faster than the other, creating imbalances and muscle tension to the joints they attach to.  This could ultimately lead to muscle strains and conditions such as torticollis (wry neck).

Cool the air in the room by placing an oscillating fan in the corner of the room, opposite your bed.  If you have a ceiling fan, ensure it is not positioned directly over the bed.

Have a great day,
Dr. Crysta Serné
Vancouver Chiropractor and owner of Vitality Clinic

Intramuscular stimulation, or IMS has become a popular method of relieving chronic and acute muscle pain and spasticity. IMS is extremely useful in treating skeletal muscle trigger points, or areas of shorted, contracted skeletal muscle that contribute to pain and dysfunction. Acupuncture needles, as opposed to much larger needles typically used for injections, are inserted directly into trigger points. This direct stimulation of the trigger point often precipitates fasciculation or muscle spasm, and relaxation of the affected muscle, leading to pain relief.

Specifically, IMS is used to treat neuropathic pain, resulting from skeletal muscle “supersensitivity”. According to Dr. Chann Gunn, a pioneer in the method of IMS and pain pathophysiology, supersensitivity is the process by which nerves become over sensitive to stimuli causing an increased perception of pain. “Super sensitive” muscles cannot be seen via medical imaging, and may only be identified via a combination of palpation, and patient history. Some deep muscles that aren’t easily palpated must be assessed via the insertion of acupuncture or IMS needles. If the suspected muscle is not functioning appropriately and contains trigger points, the patient will feel an odd, deep aching sensation. If the muscle is healthy and contracting appropriately, this deep aching sensation will not be experienced.

Once a trigger point has been identified and needled appropriately, the affected muscle will either start to spasm immediately, or tightly grasp the needle for a period of time. This “grabbing” sensation is a result of muscle stimulation and is transient, but is often perceived as a deep intense muscle ache that may radiate to bony attachments. As the trigger point begins to relax, the deep aching sensation subsides. If a muscle contains many trigger points, multiple treatments are often necessary – typically patients see complete relief with 8-10 sessions, but often benefit greatly after a single treatment.

Historically, the needling of muscular trigger points has contributed greatly to the treatment of pain and muscle dysfunction in traditional Chinese medicine. Traditional acupuncturists directly needle what are known at “ashi” points, or points of muscle tenderness and pain, with predictable referral patterns. Traditional acupuncturists will also typically needle additional points with therapeutic properties based on the patient’s presenting concerns and systemic health pattern.

Therapeutic IMS is an incredibly effective adjunct to chiropractic care and massage therapy, and is currently offered at Vitality Clinic.

Have a great day,
Dr. Kaleigh Anstett, ND

Caitlyn Fry , RMT has first hand knowledge of what treatments are necessary by dancers as she is a former one.  Check out her latest submission.

Enjoy the sun,

The Vitality Team

Pregnancy is a state of wellness that allows for changes physiologically, muscularly, emotionally, and affects virtually very organ system in the body. As a Registered Massage Therapist, being aware of the normal and potentially abnormal changes during pregnancy are necessary in providing a safe and effective treatment plan throughout the 9 month period. There are some modified strokes and positions when treating Mom-to-be during the gestation period.

Within the first trimester, regular massage techniques and pressure are used but expect only light massage on the lower back and abdomen. Positioning is in regards to comfort at this time. In contrast, the second trimester is a time of large growth for Baby and side lying position is introduced. This position is appropriate as there may be a change in blood pressure while lying face up, and face down may become increasingly uncomfortable later into the second trimester.

The massage treatment in the second and third trimester is catered to the individual needs of the client, with the goals to decrease pain and discomfort while inducing relaxation for stress. There are also many drug free, effective self care techniques that can be done at home that are relative to each Mothers condition. Massage therapy can be helpful for expecting mothers with pregnancy related sciatica, edema, carpal tunnel syndrome, headaches, muscle tension and back pain.

Have a great day,
The RMT’s at Vitality Clinic

Here’s a great salad recipe to either have on it’s own or as a side dish.

Ingredients
2 Cups of Cooked Brown Basmati Rice (sometimes I mix Black and Brown together)
1 1/2 Cups Chopped Celery (not fine, just 1/4 inch square)
1/4 Cup chopped pepper (Red, Yellow and or Orange)
1 Can of Chick Peas (rinsed thoroughly)
1/2 Cup Chopped Green Onions
1/4 Cup Chopped Parsley
3/4 Cup whole Almonds (Lightly Roast in fry pan with Olive oil for a few min)

Dressing
1/3 Cup flax Seed oil OR 1/4 Cup of olive oil
4 Tbsp Tamari (No added salt, wheat free)
1 Tbsp White Vinegar
1/2 tsp. Celery Salt
3 Tbsp Curry Powder
1/2 tsp. Sugar
Garlic Clove (mashed with Black pepper)

Preparation
Mix separately then add the dressing to the rice.
Mix with fork thoroughly.
Refrigerate overnight or at lease 3-4 hours.
Mix again before serving.

Enjoy,
Julianne Petersen,
Vancouver Acupuncturist

Everyone knows yoga is good for the soul, but how great is it to see the studies being done to show what it can scientifically do for the body!

click to read article 

Enjoy the sunshine,

Caitlyn Fry, RMT