Dr. Shazma Mithani, MD, FRCPC

Dr. Shazma Mithani, MD, FRCPC I am an Emergency Doctor in Edmonton, Alberta at one of the busiest inner city emergency departments

12/06/2025

If you’ve seen vibration plates marketed as a shortcut for metabolism, fat loss, detox, or “lymphatic drainage,” the evidence simply doesn’t support those claims. These devices have been pushed hard in the wellness space, but high-quality research just isn’t there.

What we do see are small, inconsistent studies showing potential benefits for specific groups, like older adults working on balance, or modest improvements in bone mineral density when vibration is combined with other exercises. There’s also some early research on reduced muscle soreness after workouts, but again, nothing strong or consistent.

It’s also important to note that these devices aren’t appropriate for everyone. People who are pregnant, have implanted devices such as pacemakers, have active deep-vein thrombosis, unstable cardiovascular disease, recent fractures or joint replacements, severe osteoporosis, or significant vestibular disorders should avoid vibration platforms or use them only under clinical guidance. For these groups, the potential risks outweigh any of the uncertain benefits.

For most people, especially if you’re already active, these machines don’t replace the fundamentals that truly move the needle for health: strength training, regular cardio, and daily movement.

If there are other wellness devices you want me to break down, send them my way.

In my latest column for  I discuss everything you need to know about fever in your child. This is probably one of the mo...
12/05/2025

In my latest column for I discuss everything you need to know about fever in your child.

This is probably one of the most common reasons parents bring their child into the ER. Though most fevers can be managed at home, there are importantly caveats that I outline in the article.

Be sure to share and leave any questions in the comments!

12/02/2025

So excited to be a regular contributor on going forward. I’ll be on the show every third Sunday of the month discussing what I’m seeing in the ER and how to keep you and your loved ones away from it.

September was back to school illnesses, but I have to say that this topic is even more relevant now as we head into winter. Between now and spring, we will continue to see a rise in viral infections, some of which can make you pretty sick.

If you haven’t already booked and received your COVID and influenza shots, it’s not too late! Protect yourselves and those around you as the holiday approach and numbers continue to rise.

Be sure to drop any topic suggestions for future segments in the comments.

11/27/2025

We’re into that time of year when flu cases are beginning to rise.

This season brings a new wrinkle: the influenza A H3N2 subclade K variant is already circulating and appears to be driving the uptick. While the flu shot this year included an H3N2 component, the emerging variant isn’t a perfect match, and early data suggest protection may be 30-40% in adults and 70-80% in children.

The important part here is that the evidence shows that flu vaccine still reduces your risk of severe illness, hospital stay, and complications. Especially in the ER I’m already seeing patients caught off guard by how quickly flu can knock you out.

If you haven’t had your shot yet this season: now is the time. Think of it as giving yourself and your family a head start. Even in a “mismatch” season, every layer of protection counts.

11/19/2025

As a I’ve been able to try so much from their amazing activewear collection. If you think underwear is comfortable, wait until you try their activewear. They have everything you need for any activity you do!

Plus, during their BFCM sale, you can save an additional 10% off your $100+ purchase with code DRSHAZMAMITHANI10

Let me know what you have your eye on!

11/16/2025

These loungewear sets should be your go to for your loved ones this holiday season. I bought a set for my (non-medical) husband and he keeps asking for another set 😂

I have a couple of these sets now too and I’ve just been living in them. The other parents at school drop off and pickup have basically seen me in nothing else since the weather got chillier. These are much softer and thicker than I was expecting, so they’re perfect to stay cozy in throughout the winter!

You can use my code ShazmaMFIRSTFIGS for 15% off your first order.

What’s your favourite place to wear loungewear?

11/10/2025

holiday drops have started, and they include the absolute coziest waffle lounge sets.

Shocking Pink is back alongside the new Deep Cranberry (my personal favourite). If there’s anything I love, it’s comfortable clothes both on and off shift.

Plus, you don’t have to work in healthcare to need a cute holiday loungewear set! I know what I’ll be living in for the foreseeable future…

Remember that you can use my code ShazmaMFIRSTFIGS for 15% off your first FIGS purchase 🥰

10/31/2025

As an ER doctor and a mom, Halloween safety is always top of mind.

Here are four quick reminders to help keep your kids safe tonight — and out of the ER:

Visibility & costumes: Bright colors, reflective tape, or glow sticks make a big difference. Masks can block vision — face paint is safer.

Trick-or-treating: Stick to well-lit areas, stay in groups, and keep phones away when crossing streets. Kids are more than twice as likely to be hit by a car on Halloween.

Candy check: Toss anything unsealed or suspicious. For younger kids, watch for choking hazards. Be sure to be mindful of allergens if you have a kiddo with food allergies.

Weather & warmth: Layer up if it’s cold and make sure shoes fit — I’ve seen too many twisted ankles from costume footwear.

And of course, have fun!
TrickOrTreating

Here we are again! It’s respiratory virus season. In my latest column for  I dive into what you can expect this respirat...
10/22/2025

Here we are again! It’s respiratory virus season.

In my latest column for I dive into what you can expect this respiratory season, but most importantly what you can do to protect yourselves and your family this fall/winter.

Please be sure to share with friends and family to help keep them healthy this season as well and follow me for more helpful health tips.

10/20/2025

PSA for all Alberta Residents.

It’s recently been brought to my attention that the Alberta government is asking Albertans to pre-order the influenza and COVID-19 vaccines for the 2026–2027 respiratory virus season. Now we have only just started our 2025 respiratory season now, so most of us are likely not thinking about one year from now, however, it is important that you pay attention to this, because pre-ordering is only available until December 15, 2025.

I don’t know what happens next year if you don’t pre-order, however, I think you’re better off just pre-ordering the vaccines now to make sure that there are enough available for everybody that needs them.

Please be sure to share wildly with all of your friends and family, because the deadline is already approaching.

Let me know your thoughts and questions in the comments, and again please share widely. December 15 will be here before you know it.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, but breast health is something we need to think about year round. It’s importa...
10/15/2025

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, but breast health is something we need to think about year round.

It’s important to understand the importance of screening for breast cancer, how screening is done and when to start. All of the information in this post pertains to people who are NOT high risk. Anyone high risk should talk to their doctor about the right timing and type(s) of screening, as the general rules outlined here don’t apply.

There has been a lot of discussion around what age is best to start screening for breast cancer. Breast cancer screening should absolutely start by age 50, but there is growing evidence and guidelines that support starting earlier at 40.

The most important takeaway here is that starting screening at 40 comes with some additional risks (like overdiagnosis, increased biopsies, increased patient anxiety and more). This is why it’s SO important to talk to your health care provider about the pros and cons of starting in your 40s.

Depending on where you live, you can self refer for mammograms starting at age 40. If you live in a province that doesn’t allow this, you’ll need a referral.

Let me know your thoughts and questions in the comments.

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Edmonton, AB

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