The Holiday Effect: Understanding Why Pain Vanishes on Holiday, Only to Return at Home

Picture this: You're lounging on a sun-kissed beach, savoring the tranquility of a well-deserved vacation, and suddenly, your chronic pain seems to vanish into thin air. Yet, as soon as you return home, it resurfaces with a vengeance. What sorcery is at play here? In this blog, we delve into the fascinating phenomenon known as the "holiday effect" to unravel the mysteries behind why pain disappears during holidays, only to reappear upon returning home.

1. Stress Relief and Pain Reduction:

• Holidays provide a much-needed break from the daily grind, offering a respite from stressors that can exacerbate pain. Reduced stress levels during holidays can lead to relaxation, improved mood, and decreased perception of pain.

2. Change in Routine and Environment:

• Stepping out of your usual environment and routine during holidays introduces novelty and distraction, diverting attention away from things that usually irritate you. Engaging in new activities, exploring unfamiliar surroundings, and breaking away from daily habits can contribute to pain relief.

3. Mind-Body Connection:

• The mind plays a significant role in pain perception, and holidays offer an opportunity to reset and recalibrate the mind-body connection. Positive emotions, such as joy, excitement, and contentment experienced during vacations, can trigger the release of endorphins and other feel-good neurotransmitters, providing natural pain relief.

4. Lifestyle Factors:

• Holidays often entail a shift in lifestyle habits, including changes in diet, increased physical activity, and more restful sleep. These lifestyle modifications can have a profound impact on overall well-being and pain management.

5. Returning to Reality:

• As the holiday euphoria fades and you return to the familiar routines and stressors of daily life, the protective shield of relaxation and distraction dissipates. The resumption of work responsibilities, household chores, and other obligations can reignite stress levels, exacerbating pain once again.

So what's the take home...? If you've experienced the "holiday effect", it's likely that there is something in your day to day lifestyle (or multiple things in your lifestyle) that act as a sensitiser. This could be negative emotions, sustained postures, stress/anxiousness, your diet, or simply your environment.

If it goes away when you're away, then is it really an injury? Ask yourself... What in my lifestyle could be contributing to my problem? Now, start chipping away.

Pain without Injury is Sensitivity

Pain without an apparent injury can be puzzling, but understanding the subtleties of sensitivity unveils a complex interplay of physical, chemical, psychological, and emotional factors. 

In this blog, we embark on a journey to explore the nuanced realm of pain, where sensitivity becomes the orchestrator, influencing the intensity of our experiences based on the status of each contributing element.  

Factors that contribute to being in a sensitised state are:

• Physical

• Chemical

• Psychological

• Emotional 

Physical Factors:  Sensitivity to pain can be influenced by physical conditions such as muscle tension, joint compression, and acute/chronic load. Recognizing and addressing these elements can significantly impact pain perception. 

Chemical Factors:  The body's chemical environment plays a pivotal role. Inflammation, neurotransmitter levels, and hormonal balance can heighten or mitigate sensitivity to pain. Dietary habits, hydration, and overall lifestyle contribute to this chemical symphony. 

Psychological Factors:  Our mental state, including stress levels, anxiety, and past experiences, shapes our perception of pain. Psychological factors can amplify or alleviate sensitivity, underscoring the mind-body connection in our experience of discomfort. 

Emotional Factors:  Emotions are powerful contributors to pain sensitivity. Depression, fear, or unresolved emotional stress can magnify the perception of pain. Conversely, a positive emotional state can act as a natural analgesic. 

More Than Just Physical Injury: Sensitivity challenges the traditional notion that pain is solely linked to physical injury. Understanding that various factors contribute allows for a more comprehensive approach to pain management. 

Individual Variability: Each person's sensitivity profile is unique. What might cause severe pain in one individual may be tolerated differently by another. Recognizing and respecting this variability is crucial in tailoring effective pain management strategies. 

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Strategies for managing sensitivity require you to take a holistic approach addressing physical, chemical, psychological, and emotional aspects. This may include a combination of physical therapy, nutritional adjustments, mindfulness practices, and emotional well-being initiatives. It comes down to developing your self awareness and being mindful of which of these 4 factors might be heightening your sensitivity.

Pain without apparent injury is a dynamic experience influenced by sensitivity to physical, chemical, psychological, and emotional factors. Recognizing the interconnectedness of these elements opens avenues for more effective pain management strategies. By addressing the multifaceted nature of sensitivity, individuals can navigate their pain experiences with greater understanding and resilience. 

Tendon Strain and Nerve Sensitivity in Pulling Movements

Medial elbow pain during pulling movements is a common concern, often attributed to tendon-related issues. However, the intricacies of this discomfort extend beyond tendon strain. In this blog, we delve into the nuanced world of medial elbow pain, shedding light on the possibility that nerve tension and sensitivity might be crucial factors contributing to this often misunderstood condition.

Understanding the Symptom: Tendon vs. Nerve Sensitivity

Tendon-Related Strain:
Medial elbow pain is frequently associated with overuse or strain of the tendons, especially those connected to the inner part of the elbow. This strain can result from repetitive pulling movements, such as in weightlifting or certain sports activities.

Overlay of Nerve Tension:
What might seem like a straightforward tendon issue can sometimes be compounded by nerve tension. Nerves that run through the elbow can become compressed or irritated during certain movements, leading to heightened sensitivity and pain.

Symptoms and Indicators:

Tendon-Related Symptoms:

• Localized pain along the inner part of the elbow during pulling movements.

• Tenderness and swelling around the affected area.

• Gradual onset of discomfort with a specific motion

Nerve Sensitivity Indicators:

• Radiating pain or tingling sensations down the forearm.

• Increased sensitivity to touch or pressure around the inner elbow.

• Variability in pain intensity based on arm positioning or specific movements.

Navigating Diagnosis and Treatment:
Professional Evaluation:
Seek the expertise of a healthcare professional, such as a physiotherapist or orthopaedic specialist, for a comprehensive evaluation. They can perform tests to differentiate between tendon-related strain and nerve sensitivity.

Addressing Tendon Issues:
Tendon-related pain may require rest, ice, and specific exercises to promote healing. A gradual return to pulling movements, with attention to form and load, is essential.

Managing Nerve Sensitivity:
Nerve tension often responds well to stretching and mobility exercises. Addressing any contributing factors, such as poor posture or muscle imbalances, can alleviate pressure on the nerves.

Prevention and Long-Term Well-being:

Proper Warm-up and Mobility:
Prioritize a thorough warm-up routine that includes dynamic stretches to prepare the tendons and nerves for pulling movements.

Technique and Form:
Ensure proper technique during pulling exercises to minimize strain on the tendons and reduce the risk of nerve compression.

Balanced Training:
Incorporate a balanced training program that targets both pulling and pushing movements. This helps prevent overuse injuries and promotes overall joint health.

Medial elbow pain with pulling movements is a multifaceted issue that demands careful consideration of both tendon and nerve-related factors. Understanding the nuances of these symptoms allows for a more targeted and effective approach to diagnosis and treatment. If you or someone you know is grappling with medial elbow pain, seeking professional guidance is the first step toward a comprehensive and lasting solution. Remember, an accurate diagnosis sets the stage for a tailored and effective recovery plan.

A Sustainable Approach to Health and Fitness in the New Year

The New Year brings with it a surge of motivation, and for many, health and fitness take centre stage in their resolutions.

It's crucial to recognize that sustained change requires more than a burst of motivation.

Let's explore how to make your health and fitness resolutions sustainable by understanding your goals, focusing on outcomes, and integrating them into your routine.

1. Sustainability Over Intensity:

While the initial burst of motivation might have you eager to hit the gym with full force, sustainability should be the cornerstone of your approach. It's not about the intensity of a single workout but the consistency of your efforts over time. Start with manageable goals that align with your lifestyle, gradually increasing intensity as your fitness journey evolves.

2. Define Your Outcome, Not Just Actions:

Rather than fixating on the number of training sessions per week, shift your focus to the outcomes you want to achieve. Ask yourself, "What do I want to feel or accomplish?" Whether it's increased energy, improved mood, weight loss, or enhanced strength, defining specific outcomes provides a clearer roadmap for your fitness journey.

3. Calendar Commitment:

One effective way to foster sustainability is by integrating your health and fitness goals into your calendar. Treat your workout sessions with the same level of importance as any other commitment. Whether it's scheduling specific workout times, planning meal prep sessions, or allocating time for self-care, putting it in your calendar enhances accountability and makes it a non-negotiable part of your routine.

4. Making It Stick:

Sustainability in health and fitness is not about radical changes; it's about creating a lifestyle that supports your well-being. By embracing a gradual and consistent approach, focusing on desired outcomes, and integrating your fitness routine into your schedule, you set the stage for long-term success. Remember, the journey to a healthier you is not a sprint but a marathon, and each step forward, no matter how small, is a victory worth celebrating.

Following these steps, you're not just starting a new chapter; you're rewriting the narrative of your health and well-being - potentially for a lifetime.

May this year be a journey of sustainable growth, resilience, and lasting health.

Happy New Year!

Why Your Fitness Journey Shouldn't Wait for 100%

Embarking on a fitness journey is often seen as a daunting task, especially when waiting for our bodies to feel 100% ready. However, the truth is, you don't have to be in perfect shape to start. In this blog, we'll explore the idea of embracing imperfection and why waiting for that elusive 100% might be holding you back from a transformative and empowering fitness journey.

1. The Myth of Perfect Readiness:

The belief that you need to wait until your body feels absolutely perfect before starting your fitness journey is a common misconception. Life is dynamic, and our bodies are constantly evolving. Waiting for the ideal moment might mean missing out on the opportunity to gradually build strength, stamina, and overall well-being.

2. The Power of Starting Small:

Small, consistent efforts can make a significant impact over time. It could be a short walk, a few minutes of stretching, or a gentle workout routine. These small steps not only contribute to physical improvements but also build the foundation for a sustainable fitness habit.

3. Listening to Your Body:

Acknowledging your body's signals is crucial, but it's equally important to discern between discomfort and pain. Waiting until you're completely pain-free might mean delaying your fitness journey indefinitely. Learning to listen to your body, understanding its limits, and gradually pushing those limits in a controlled manner can be a more realistic and beneficial approach.

4. The Psychological Boost:

Starting your fitness journey, even when your body isn't at 100%, can have positive psychological effects. Taking action, no matter how small, generates a sense of accomplishment and boosts your confidence. This mental resilience is a powerful asset on your journey towards improved health and fitness.

In the realm of fitness, waiting for your body to feel 100% ready is a notion that often hinders progress. Instead, consider the power of starting small, listening to your body, and embracing imperfection. Your fitness journey is not about reaching an arbitrary level of perfection; it's about the ongoing process of self-improvement. So, lace up those sneakers, take that first step, and remember, every journey begins with a single move, not when your body feels 100%, but right now.

Why Your Active Job Might Not Be Enough

If you've ever thought, "My job keeps me active, so I don't need to exercise," you're not alone. Many folks with physically demanding jobs believe the same. But let's break it down a bit. This blog is about why relying only on your job for physical activity might not cover all your fitness needs, and why doing some targeted exercises can help you stay fit and healthy for the long run.

1. Balanced Activity for a Balanced You:
Sure, your active job has you moving around a lot, which is great. But here's the thing—those movements might not cover all your body's needs. Some muscles might be getting stronger, but others could be left out. When you add in some specific exercises, you're like a superhero making sure every part of your body gets the workout it needs.

2. Training Cardio and Stressing Your Energy Systems:

Your active job might get your heart pumping, but are you making it stronger? That's where aerobic fitness comes in. It's like giving your heart a workout. And then there's metabolic conditioning, which helps your body use energy better. Ignoring these basics could leave you feeling tired and less ready to take on the challenges of your active job.

Why Exercise Matters: Keeping You Going for the Long Haul:

Exercise isn't just something you do for fun. It's like putting money in a savings account—it pays off in the long run. By doing targeted exercises, you make sure your body can handle all the twists and turns your active job throws at it. It's not about replacing what you do at work; it's about making sure you can keep doing it for a really long time.

Exercise isn't just a bonus; it's your secret weapon for a healthy and strong career that lasts. Remember, it's not about doing less at work—it's about doing more for yourself so you can keep on being the superhero of your active world.

Two Key Factors Creating Sensory Overload For Headaches

Headaches, often described as a throbbing discomfort or a relentless pressure, are a common yet intricate phenomenon. While the sensation of pain in the head can have various origins, a significant contributor is often sensory overload—a result of multiple triggers converging simultaneously. In this blog, we shine a light on two crucial triggers that we can actively address: neck tension and jaw tension.

The Symphony of Sensory Overload:
Headaches, far from being standalone discomforts, are often the result of sensory overload. Our modern lives bombard us with stimuli—from bright screens and loud noises to stress-inducing situations. When these triggers converge, the nervous system can become overwhelmed, resulting in the manifestation of headache symptoms. Recognizing this intricate interplay is the first step toward effective headache management.

Key Trigger 1: Neck Tension—The Unseen Culprit:

Neck tension, a silent but potent contributor to headaches, often stems from underlying musculoskeletal issues, poor posture and stress. When the muscles in the neck tighten, they can cause a ripple effect, radiating pain to the head. Addressing neck tension involves a comprehensive approach, including ergonomic adjustments, targeted exercises, and sometimes professional intervention such as chiropractic care or physiotherapy.

Key Trigger 2: Jaw Tension—The Clenched Connection:

Jaw tension, frequently linked to stress or teeth grinding (bruxism), is another notable headache trigger. The jaw and head share a close anatomical relationship, and tension in the jaw muscles can radiate upward, contributing to headache symptoms. Solutions for managing jaw tension may include stress reduction techniques, internal jaw and cranial manual therapy, jaw exercises, and, in some cases, dental interventions to address bruxism.

Navigating the Path to Relief:
Understanding the multifaceted nature of headaches allows us to approach relief comprehensively. Managing sensory overload involves lifestyle adjustments, stress reduction practices, and identifying and addressing specific triggers. For neck tension, a combination of ergonomic improvements, exercises, and professional care can provide relief. Similarly, for jaw tension, a holistic approach encompassing stress management and targeted interventions can significantly alleviate symptoms.

Headaches, often the result of a sensory symphony playing in our daily lives, are not insurmountable challenges. By recognizing the impact of sensory overload and addressing key triggers like neck and jaw tension, we can pave the way to effective headache management.

Remember, the journey to headache relief involves unraveling the layers of triggers, embracing lifestyle adjustments, and seeking professional guidance when needed. In doing so, we empower ourselves to navigate the path toward a more pain-free and balanced existence.

Shoulder Pain with Tingling Fingers: 3 possible reasons!

Shoulder pain accompanied by tingling sensations in the fingers can be a perplexing and uncomfortable experience.

While these symptoms may seem isolated, they often serve as signals from your body, hinting at underlying issues that require attention. We explore three potential culprits: Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS), underlying neck problems, and compressed nerves within the shoulder.

Thoracic Outlet Syndrome (TOS):
Thoracic Outlet Syndrome is a condition where the nerves or blood vessels between the collarbone and first rib are compressed.

This compression can lead to shoulder pain and tingling in the fingers. Individuals experiencing TOS may notice symptoms worsen with certain arm movements or sustained positions.

Understanding the intricate anatomy of the thoracic outlet is crucial in identifying and addressing this potential cause of discomfort.

Underlying Neck Problems:

Shoulder pain and tingling fingers may also be linked to underlying neck problems.

Issues such as herniated discs or nerve compression in the cervical spine can manifest as referred pain in the shoulder and sensations of tingling in the finger

It's essential to consider the holistic connection between the neck and shoulder regions, as symptoms originating from the neck can often radiate to other areas.

Compressed Nerve in the Shoulder:

A compressed nerve within the shoulder, often arising from conditions like rotator cuff injuries or inflammation, can lead to a cascade of symptoms. Shoulder pain and tingling in the fingers may be indicative of nerve impingement.

Understanding the specific nerve pathways and their potential compression points in the shoulder is vital for accurate diagnosis and targeted treatment.

Shoulder pain accompanied by tingling fingers serves as a complex puzzle, and deciphering its meaning requires a nuanced approach.

Whether it's Thoracic Outlet Syndrome, underlying neck problems, or a compressed nerve in the shoulder, each potential cause demands attention and understanding.

If you're experiencing these symptoms, seeking professional evaluation and diagnosis is crucial for effective management and relief.

Let us know if we can help.

The Art of Load Management: A Key to Injury Prevention and Optimal Performance

It's not uncommon to push our bodies to their limits.

However, the delicate balance between progress and potential injury hinges on an often overlooked principle – load management.

Whether it's the acute load of intense workouts over a four-week period or the chronic load of sustained activity without adequate deloading for 12 weeks or more, understanding and mastering load management is paramount.

In this blog, we delve into the intricacies of load management, exploring how it can prevent injuries, enhance performance, and foster a sustainable approach to health and fitness.

Understanding Acute Load: The 4-Week Culprit:

The acute load refers to the intensity and volume of training over a short period, typically four weeks. Many injuries or flare-ups occur when individuals inadvertently subject themselves to excessive acute loads. It's crucial to be mindful of the gradual build-up of pain. If you've recently introduced new activities or intensified your workout routine, this could be the trigger. The key takeaway is to consider the impact of recent changes and recognize that the body needs time to adapt.

The Chronic Load Conundrum: A 12-Week Odyssey:

Chronic load involves the sustained, long-term stress placed on the body through consistent physical activity. When individuals neglect to incorporate deload phases – periods of reduced training intensity – for 12 weeks or more, it can lead to overuse injuries. Reflect on your training history; when was the last time you allowed your body a period of active recovery? Understanding the chronic load can unveil the reasons behind persistent pain or recurring injuries.

The Importance of Deloading: Allowing the Body to Breathe:

Deloading is not a sign of weakness but rather a strategic move to optimize performance and prevent injuries. It involves reducing the training volume and intensity periodically to provide the body with much-needed recovery. Deloading allows tissues to repair, mitigates the risk of overuse injuries, and fosters long-term athletic development. Incorporating deload phases every 4-6 weeks is a proactive strategy to ensure the body remains resilient and responsive.

Load management is an art that involves navigating the delicate balance between challenging our limits and allowing our bodies to recover.

Whether it's the acute load of a rigorous month or the chronic load of continuous training, recognizing the signs and implementing strategic deloading is key.

If you're experiencing a gradual build-up of pain, reflect on recent changes in your routine or consider when you last embraced a deload. The journey to optimal performance and injury prevention begins with the mastery of load management – a cornerstone for a sustainable and thriving fitness lifestyle.

Unveiling the Night Symphony: Understanding Three Common Causes of Snoring

In the realm of peaceful slumber, the subtle sounds of snoring can sometimes disrupt the tranquillity of the night. If you find yourself wondering why snoring has become your nocturnal companion, let's explore three common culprits that might shed light on the mystery.

Today, we unravel the intricacies of jaw issues, mouth breathing, and diet as key contributors to the nighttime symphony.

Jaw Issues: The Silent Architect of Snoring

Often overlooked, jaw issues can play a pivotal role in orchestrating the symphony of snores. When the jaw alignment is off balance, especially during sleep, it can lead to snoring. This misalignment may partially obstruct the airway, causing vibrations in the soft tissues of the throat – the classic sound of snoring.

If you find yourself waking up to your nocturnal melody, it might be worth exploring the relationship between your jaw alignment and the nighttime serenade.

Mouth Breathing: A Gateway to Midnight Harmonies

The way we breathe while sleeping can significantly impact the prevalence of snoring. If you are a nocturnal mouth breather, it could be a key contributor to the nighttime orchestra. Mouth breathing tends to dry out the throat, promoting the relaxation of throat tissues and increasing the likelihood of snoring.

Pay attention to your breathing habits during sleep – the shift from nose to mouth might be the nuanced clue to your nocturnal melody.

Diet: Culinary Choices and the Midnight Sonata

Believe it or not, your dietary choices can influence the way you serenade the night. Certain foods and beverages, particularly those that relax the muscles, can contribute to snoring. Alcohol, sedatives, and even heavy meals close to bedtime may induce muscle relaxation, including the muscles in the throat, potentially intensifying the nightly performance.

Reflect on your dietary habits, especially in the hours leading up to bedtime, to unveil potential connections to your snoring serenade.

The nocturnal symphony is often a subtle signal from our bodies, prompting us to explore the intricate nuances of our health. If the melody of snoring is a familiar tune, consider delving into the realms of jaw alignment, breathing patterns, and dietary choices. These three common reasons might offer insights into the nocturnal harmonies that accompany your sleep. Remember, the journey to a quieter night begins with understanding the subtle cues that echo in the stillness of the dark.

Outcomes vs Processed Focused

A challenge that presents itself from time to time in the clinic with our patients is identifying the main motivator of the patient.

Let me explain.

Most of the time, patients come in because they are in pain… but after questioning, what we uncover is that it’s not necessarily the pain in isolation, but rather the impact the pain is having on them and their lives. 

For example – it makes them feel helpless, disempowered and weak OR it has stopped them from doing something important to them like playing with their kids or being able to work.

So is it really about the pain? Or is it about the restoration of normal function and feeling?

Well, in the clinic, we find that this depends on the person and their context at the time of the consult.

In the clinic, we think about our patients being on a scale of “processed focused” to “outcomes-focused”

An outcomes-focused person is:

• Focused on their goals. Their goals being: restoring the function that they lost OR progressing to a new and improved level of functioning

• There is a lot less focus on the type of treatment – they tend not to really mind whether they get needling, massage, rehab or whatever – but rather they care the most about the result

• They want a plan and know what the steps are towards a goal

• They want tools they can use to self-manage their problem and a program to move them forward

A processed focused person is:

• Focused on their pain and symptoms

• Has a preference on how to treat the area of attention

• Can tend to be quite emotional about their pain and really feels they need hands on care

• Doesn’t really want to spend time understanding the problem until after they are out of pain

The reality is that most patients are somewhere in between on a scale biasing either outcomes or processed.

It’s really important that as clinicians, we are accurate in meeting the person’s expectations. 

There is nothing more frustrating than wanting a plan as a patient but being given a massage and some dry needling. The same goes for people overwhelmed by pain, who don’t want to sit there listening to the plan and being given a rehab program.

It is reasonable to assume that an outcomes-focused approach is going to result in better long-term results, but it is not always feasible. Sometimes people who are focused on their goals and restoring function can have painful days, and on those days they need some processed focused support.

It’s up to us to make a difference by knowing the difference and asking you the right questions at the time of each consult.

If you would like to work with us, book an appointment below!

The Power of Pilates with Our Women's Health Physio

While you've journeyed through the beautiful experience of motherhood, some aspects of your body may still yearn for recovery and strength. Pilates, in collaboration with our women's health physio, can be your trusted ally on this path. Here are 3 key benefits:

1. Targeted Recovery for Previous Pregnancies and Births

Your body undergoes remarkable transformations, but it's not uncommon for certain areas to need additional attention, even years after giving birth. Our women's health physiotherapist, in conjunction with Pilates, offers targeted recovery for these specific concerns:

• Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation: Pregnancy and childbirth can strain the pelvic floor muscles. Firstly, understanding what needs to be strengthened (with a pelvic assessment) along with Pilates exercises can help you regain strength and function in this essential area.

• Effective and Efficient Use of Your Core: Often the way you're using your core muscles may not be efficient or effective to facilitate the things you're doing in life. So it's about re-connecting you to your core and moving more efficiently and effectively.

• Postural Alignment: The changes in posture during pregnancy, with breastfeeding and with carrying your child can persist long after childbirth. This can lead to overstraining specific areas and neglecting others to do the things that need to be done in motherhood. The goal would be to regain some strength in the neglected areas.

2. Building Confidence in Body Movement

After giving birth, it's common to feel a bit disconnected from your body. Pilates, under the guidance of our women's health physio, is an effective tool for rebuilding that connection and enhancing your confidence in movement:

• Mind-Body Connection: Pilates emphasizes mindful movement, enabling you to regain control and awareness of your body.

• Progressive and Safe: Our women's health physiotherapist ensures that every Pilates session is tailored to your unique needs and abilities, offering a safe and progressive approach to exercise.

• Improved Functional Fitness: As you grow in confidence, you'll discover newfound strength and ease in daily activities, from lifting your little ones to pursuing your fitness passions.

3. Strengthening and Enhancing Mobility

If you're constantly on the move, feeling strong and mobile is essential. Pilates with our women's health physiotherapist can help you achieve these goals:

• Muscular Strength: Pilates is renowned for its ability to strengthen various muscle groups, enhancing your overall physical strength.

• Flexibility and Mobility: Pilates exercises promote flexibility, joint mobility, and a full range of motion, allowing you to move with greater ease.

• Energy and Vitality: As you strengthen and mobilize your body, you'll experience a boost in energy levels, enhancing your ability to keep up with your family's active lifestyle.

Empower Your Journey

Pilates, combined with the expertise of our women's health physiotherapist, is a powerful partnership that can help you reclaim your body's strength, build confidence, and enhance mobility.

If you're ready to embark on this empowering path, don't hesitate to reach out to our clinic.

Why Do I Feel 'Out of Whack" and What Does That Even Mean?

Have you ever had the sense that you’ve felt 'out of whack'? 

A lot of people get told that "one leg is longer than the other'' or that their "pelvis is twisted"... These phrases (or anything similar) are just narratives we use to help us explain what this feeling is, or why we have this sense of not being 'in line'. Long term though, these narratives and explanations aren't helpful... Your behaviour will naturally create asymmetry and activities in life are not symmetrical. 

So why should we expect our bodies to be symmetrical?!

So, you can feel 'centred' but be mechanically asymmetrical... And that is perfectly normal... But, how do we explain the feeling of being 'out of whack'? Let's explain this with a practical example... 

We are supposed to strive towards taking 10,000 steps per day, but how many of those steps did we consciously think about? We're more likely to detect mis-steps or steps that were unexpected, rather than notice all the thousands of steps that went according to plan... Walking is a reflex, and so is standing, so is sitting and so is working at your desk... So if part of your body isn't functioning the way it used to, your brain detects that there has been an interruption to your normal reflexive patterns. But how does that even happen? 

Our lifestyles are generally sedentary, and with the rise of people working from home, people are less and less active. When we stop moving part of our body, your brain stops receiving signals from the areas that aren't being used. It's clever, your body takes on and uses what it needs... So it will only build and maintain what it needs based on what demands are placed on it... In this way if you don't move your spine all day, you'll feel 'stiff' even if you've got the flexibility of a gymnast. 

The way to combat that, is to constantly remind the brain, how to use the joint and muscles to their fullest potential... Move, move, move. 

It doesn't mean you need to be a fitness freak, or super strong - it just means you need to MOVE. So when your behaviour only puts demands on one side of your pelvis, or on one side of your neck, what can happen is your perception of how well one side functions compared to the other is skewed, in comparison to how you have felt previously... We as humans, describe this process, as a feeling of being 'out of whack'... 

If you feel 'out', a great solution is to get MOVING, but you can always see a chiro or physio to help those areas that aren't moving to get a little push along, so it's easier to move it... 

The easiest, fastest, simplest and best solution is to MOVE. 

So, next time you're told that your 'hips are out of whack' or 'one leg is longer than the other', please know, that's completely normal, and what you need to do more of, is shake what your mumma gave you more often! 

Whether it's Chiropractic or Physiotherapy, we at Balance Health & Performance, have your back... Literally! In 4 locations in Sydney - Norwest, Bondi Junction, Brookvale &n Penrith.. AND our BRAND NEW SPACE in Virginia in QLD, we're here for you