
08/20/2023
As we age, our balance can decline. However, there are several ways seniors can improve and maintain their balance at home. Here are four of the most effective strategies:
Our mission is to inspire a fundamental shift in thinking away from the treatment of illness and tow
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As we age, our balance can decline. However, there are several ways seniors can improve and maintain their balance at home. Here are four of the most effective strategies:
"Very easy to book with lots of availability. Was able to get my physio needs addressed quickly! Thoughtful and kind approach to care. Great location in the neighbourhood." says Carly on Google
★★★★★ Very easy to book with lots of availability. Was able to get my physio needs addressed quickly! Thoughtful and kind approach to care. Great location in the neighbourhood.
The modern world is replete with technological advancements that keep us connected more than ever before. However, there’s a downside to this digital age: the pervasive blue light emitted by our devices. But how is it affecting your sleep and overall health? Let’s take a look.
Walking is often considered one of the most underrated forms of exercise, but it can be an effective health-enhancing activity. It’s simple, free, and one of the easiest ways to become more active, lose weight, and become healthier. Here are five compelling benefits of incorporating just a 20-minu...
"Dr. Christina has been great! Extremely friendly and personable. She always takes the time to fully explain what she is doing and how it will positively impact my body. Could not have asked for better!" says Gary on Google
★★★★★ Dr. Christina has been great! Extremely friendly and personable. She always takes the time to fully explain what she is doing and how it will positively impact my body. Could not have asked for better!
Work-related injuries can be a significant issue for individuals with sedentary jobs or improper workplace ergonomics. In this blog post, we’ll offer tips on maintaining proper ergonomics at work and discuss how regular chiropractic adjustments can help prevent work-related injuries.
Are you looking for a drug-free way to address your vertigo? We want to help you stop the spinning. Call today to book an appointment.
Poor posture can lead to a variety of health issues, including back pain, neck strain, and headaches. In this post, we’ll explore the role of chiropractic care in correcting poor posture and preventing related health problems.
Coffee is a staple in many people’s morning routines, but some additives can zap your energy levels and cause negative side effects.
"Great clinic, friendly staff and patient centred care. Highly recommended" says Mary on Google
★★★★★ Great clinic, friendly staff and patient centred care. Highly recommended
Sciatica is a common condition that causes pain, numbness, or weakness in the buttocks and legs. The condition affects millions of people worldwide, and many find relief through chiropractic care.
Auto accidents can be traumatic experiences that leave victims with a wide range of injuries. While severe injuries require immediate medical attention, many accident injuries can benefit from natural chiropractic care.
As we age, our bodies undergo several changes that can impact our mobility. Senior citizens may experience a decline in strength, flexibility, and balance, making it more challenging to move around and perform daily activities. Here are some of the top mobility issues that seniors face:
"I have been a patient of Stephanie's for more than 25 years, from her practice in Vancouver, to randomly driving by Urban Chiropractic all those years ago. She gives the best adjustments, but more than that, her practice has evolved into a full service clinic. There is something there for everybody!" says Deirdre on Google
★★★★★ I have been a patient of Stephanie's for more than 25 years, from her practice in Vancouver, to randomly driving by Urban Chiropractic all those years ago. She gives the best adjustments, but more than that, her practice has evolved into a full service clinic. There is something ther...
It’s no secret that many patients choose to visit us to overcome back or neck pain. However, chiropractors can also play an important role in supporting the performance and recovery of athletes of all skill levels.
As a chiropractor, it’s no secret that we see patients who suffer from pain and stiffness every day. Sometimes, that pain and stiffness can be attributed to a lack of movement in their daily lives. While many of us have sedentary jobs or lifestyles, it’s important to make movement a priority in ...
"Urvashi is very professional and patient. She makes genuine effort to understand the underlying cause of the issue. Her diagnosis is always correct and her treatment is spot on. We are truly lucky to have found her!" says Bhawna on Google
★★★★★ Urvashi is very professional and patient. She makes genuine effort to understand the underlying cause of the issue. Her diagnosis is always correct and her treatment is spot on. We are truly lucky to have found her!
"Megan always has a warm and friendly greeting! Enjoy the new email format very much! And of course Dr Christina is AMAZING, and the care and expertise she has is exceptional! Can't recommend this clinic enough! Thank you all for everything you do to promote and ensure optimal health!" says Kevin on Google
★★★★★ Megan always has a warm and friendly greeting! Enjoy the new email format very much! And of course Dr Christina is AMAZING, and the care and expertise she has is exceptional! Can't recommend this clinic enough! Thank you all for everything you do to promote and ensure optimal health!
As your partner in natural health, we know that back pain can be debilitating and impact your quality of life. That’s why we’ve put together a list of stretches that can help alleviate your pain from the comfort of your own home. These stretches are easy to perform and may help relieve tension i...
We know that building healthy habits can be challenging-but it’s also something that’s essential for long-term health and well-being. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier, exercise more, or reduce stress, building healthy habits takes time, effort, and commitment.
Many people are aware of the benefits of exercise, nutrition, and stress management for maintaining good mental health. But have you ever considered how spinal alignment may also be a crucial part of the puzzle?
Oh hey there! I'm Dr. Stephanie and I want to welcome you to the party!
So for those of you who are new to , let's start with an introduction.
We have helped Midtown Toronto meet their wellness goals for over 30 years!
We love what we do and we are driven by a really strong "why". Our why is to inspire a fundamental shift in thinking away from the treatment of illness and towards the creation of wellness and vitality through our multidisciplinary team to empower you personally.
✅️ Chiropractic Care
✅️ Physiotherapy
✅️ Pelvic Floor Therapy
✅️ Massage Therapy
✅️ Chiropody
✅️ Acupuncture
✅️ Craniosacral Therapy
✅️ Clinical Hypnotherapy
✅️ Meditation
Who do you see at Urban Health Group? Tag them below!
Conveniently book online LINK IN BIO 🔗 or call (416) 489 0077
If you want to nourish your musculoskeletal system, Dr. Stephanie suggests booking a ‘Restorative Sunday':
“On Sundays, it’s a completely different vibe in the clinic. It’s Salvatore doing mostly his craniosacral and Fani doing her hypnosis. It’s a perfect Sunday vibe: they have relaxing music on and tea available. My new favourite routine is that I go in on a Sunday, do my hour of hypnosis with Fani, and then do an hour of Cranial Sacral with Salvatore. It’s the best; it’s just amazing. After those two hours, I come out of there feeling like a new person: relaxed, happy, calm and physically feeling better. It’s like a reset: a perfect Sunday thing to do.
Book your Restorative Sunday: uhg.janeapp.com
Another long weekend is upon us. Check out our availability: uhg.janeapp.com
We recommend NOT skipping your treatment schedule for vacations, long weekends or holidays. Instead, try to book a few days before (if your next treatment date lands on a week away) and the following appointment for when you get back. This way, you won't skip a beat with your progress.
Contact the front desk for scheduling help. Megan, Eli or Tara will be happy to assist you: 416-489-0077
Salvatore Spatafora, UHG’s Craniotherapist & RMT, wants patients to get curious and creative when engaging with their musculoskeletal health.
He shares: “When I’m with clients, we talk about muscles in a way where I want to understand behaviour, activities, and how they’re participating in their own joy.”
By incorporating more playful, creative activities into your life, you can encourage a more dynamic range of movement.
He adds:
“Many people live in a postural stiffness that comes from isolated activities: two-dimensional movements. They’re not really being asked to be very creative in their life, or their workplace, for that matter. If you engage something creatively, you cannot be in a posture that’s singular and two-dimensional.”
Adopting a childlike eye can open you to new ways of approaching your musculoskeletal health. Salvatore shares, “There’s a curiosity that’s so vital to health. It really exists in the inner child: this quality of pure joy in participating in the dance of life. How many people’s inner child is happy?”
Salvatore adds that rather than focussing solely on the external benefits of musculoskeletal health, it’s essential to pay attention to what movements feel good inside: “We’ve bought into the bigger concept of the nine to five, one position, one place, a computer, but the body is so dynamic. I mean, it’s a travesty that we cannot do more, and our bodies are constantly reminding us through discomfort and stiffness and pain.”
If you’re finding your mental health isn’t aligning with your musculoskeletal goals, Fani can help you work through whatever’s getting you stuck. To learn more about how Fani can help facilitate your recovery, read 7 Signs to Add Clinical Hypnosis to Your Treatment Plan https://www.urbanhealthgroup.ca/7-signs-to-add-clinical-hypnosis-to-your-treatment-plan/
Team up with your mental health. UHG recently introduced Clinical Hypnosis & Emotional Well-Being Support with Fani Peker.
“Taking care of your mind is as important as taking care of your body,” shares Dr. Stephanie Gaston, UHG’s clinic owner and chiropractor.
Chronic stress can sometimes be more damaging than an injury.
Book now: https://uhg.janeapp.com/ #/discipline/13/treatment/248
Attention Dad's everywhere: you’re allowed unlimited dad jokes today. Share your favourite with us below and enjoy this beautiful day.
This is your reminder to today! Share your movement picture with us.
Engage in Prehabilitative Care
“As a physiotherapist, one part of maintaining health is rehabilitation, but the other is prehabilitation, which nobody knows about,” shares Urvashi.
Prehabilitation is available at UHG to help you learn how to prevent injuries in the future. Treatment can include:
Conditioning:
Balance
Proprioception
Agility
Coordination
Postural and Gait Retraining
Dynamic Core Strengthening
Flexibility Training
Prehabilitative care also includes educating you on caring for your body through lifestyle modification.
Urvashi explains, “We can talk about lifestyle management, time management, pacing yourself, getting over mental aspects like stress, posture education, and sleeping at night. Prehabilitation is about your lifestyle.”
For example, you’re more likely to develop lower-crossed syndrome if you sit for a living. “Prolonged sitting weakens the abdominal and gluteal muscles while tightening hip flexors and low back muscles,” Urvashi explains. “This combination shows up as an anterior pelvic tilt and slouched posture.”
By incorporating a lifestyle assessment with a physical evaluation, your practitioner will better identify what may cause muscular imbalance.
Book now: https://uhg.janeapp.com/ #/discipline/7/treatment/188
Pain is not quantifiable.
It’s best to choose an easily quantifiable goal because it’s measurable. Having a measurable goal means you will be able to identify progress over time.
Dr. Alessia explains:
“It can be hard to quantify pain because pain is very subjective: it’s what the person feels. Focusing on something more function-related would be looking at how much you can turn your head or how much you can bend your back. Of course, you want to decrease your pain, but remember, that will come from improving your function and mobility.”
Someone could say, ‘I still feel that pain in my neck,’ but we look and find, ‘Well, your range of motion has improved quite a bit.’ [That progress] gives them hope and shows them, ‘Wow, I actually am getting better even though I still have that discomfort.”
Instead of seeing optimal health as pain-free, Dr. Alessia emphasizes striving for joints to move freely within their physiological range of motion.
She adds, “With chiropractic, we assess the spine and target those areas not moving well that usually inhibit people from making certain motions, or even at the point of causing some discomfort.”
Have you booked an assessment with one of UHG’s chiropractors? Find their upcoming availability using the UHG Jane App: https://uhg.janeapp.com/ #/discipline/4/treatment/76
Do your best to commit to movement.
It can be challenging to keep up with your exercise prescription if your work requires you to sit stationary at a computer all day long.
“That’s where people like chiropractors, physios, and healthcare practitioners are beneficial,” says Dr. Alessia, “but sometimes people can’t come in for a while. Maybe they’re going on vacation, or it’s not affordable. That’s where it’s very important to emphasize movement.”
Motion is Lotion
Dr. Alessia adds, “I like to use the phrase motion is lotion when I promote movement to my patients. The more you avoid moving, the harder it is to move, and the more pain you’re going to feel.”
Understand that your lifestyle significantly impacts your musculoskeletal condition.
Your bones, muscles, tendons, ligaments and soft tissues are your musculoskeletal system, working together to support and move you through your daily endeavours.
The first step to understanding how to care for your musculoskeletal system is recognizing how your lifestyle impacts its function.
Dr. Alessia explains:
“Let’s take two patients with the same S.I. joint issue: One patient is stressed, not eating well, not getting all their vitamins, minerals, nutrients, not drinking enough water, and is very sedentary. They will have a much harder time recovering than the other person with the same issue, but they’re in a healthy mental state, they’re eating a well-balanced diet, hydrating, getting all their vitamins and minerals, and they’re moving their body.”
During an assessment, you and your practitioner will explore your current lifestyle and how it may interact with how your musculoskeletal system operates.
Book now: uhg.janeapp.com
“What dictates a patient’s prognosis and overall health is what they’re doing outside of their treatment time,” states Dr. Alessia Stefenatti. Dr. Alessia is one of Urban Health Group’s (UHG) chiropractors.
She adds, “If you think about it, when patients come to see a physician or healthcare practitioner, they’re there for 15 minutes to half an hour. That’s not very much time.”
In addition to proposing the type, frequency, and duration of your treatment, the care plan you receive from a practitioner should educate you on being an active participant in your health. ‘Active Care,’ such as lifestyle modifications and at-home exercises, constitutes a significant part of successful treatment.
UHG’s practitioners uncover the many layers of promoting musculoskeletal health. By the end of this article, you’ll understand your role in caring for your musculoskeletal health while collaborating with your practitioners.
Read more: https://www.urbanhealthgroup.ca/6-ways-to-optimize-your-musculoskeletal-health/
Thank you for this fantastic review! We truly appreciate our patients taking the time to write about their experiences with us.
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You are worth it! Take some time to put yourself first this week.
Book now: uhg.janeapp.com
How to Start Caring for Your Pelvic Floor from Home
We asked Urvashi what would be an ideal place to start for patients who want to improve their pelvic floor health but aren't quite ready to come in. She shares,
"Start with the visualization of the pelvic floor, which means when you breathe in, you should feel the entire body expanding like a balloon.
The diaphragm is coming up towards the chest. The floor, which is the connection between your va**na and the a**s, is going down.
When you breathe out, think of the balloon shrinking. The pelvic floor is coming up, and the diaphragm is flattening and going down."
Urvashi adds that everyone should feel this process to become aware of their pelvic floor:
"You have to connect the mind and body: understand what is touching inside the body through your breath. You can put your hand on top of the abdomen, but you have to visualize your breath moving down for pelvic floor breathing. Use your mind. You have to focus yourself there. Visualization is your brain connecting to the body."
Want more pelvic-health support? Visit Urvashi at the clinic! She's super eager to share!
Not comfortable with an internal exam? You can still benefit from learning about your pelvic health.
"There's no need to get an internal exam done. You still have to see the pelvic floor physiotherapist," Urvashi insists.
Coming in for a session will still be valuable because of the knowledge you'll gain about your body.
"If you feel confident and even make that rapport with me, then yes, we can do it. But I understand: it's such a personal, private part of your body. Our first priority is just learning about the pelvic floor."
When asked if Urvashi was surprised by anything in the last six months of incorporating pelvic floor into her practice, she shared:
"I've been so surprised at how many young women cannot have in*******se because there is so much pain. We do an internal examination, and the va**nal muscles are so tight. They have a fear that in*******se is going to hurt them."
Urvashi was taken back by how life-disrupting pelvic tightness can be: "In*******se is supposed to be about pleasure, not pain."
Urvashi's very honoured to help patients move forward from these conditions with her new skillset.
"The inner thigh muscles and your hip rotators are really tough in this scenario. But they're muscles: the more you stretch, the looser it becomes. Opening and releasing them gives people a sense of calm. I have seen many times now that in just three to five sessions, it magically releases pain."
If you need further emotional support while healing pelvic dysfunction, UHG recently added Clinical Hypnosis and Emotional Well-being Support to the clinic.
Fani, our Clinical Hypnosis Practitioner, will be able to provide safe space to support you through your journey.
Happy Victoria Day. The clinic is closed today and will reopen tomorrow at 7:30am. Book now: https://uhg.janeapp.com/
18 Lola Road
Toronto, ON
M5P1E4
Monday | 10am - 6:30pm |
Tuesday | 7:30am - 7pm |
Wednesday | 7:30am - 7pm |
Thursday | 10am - 6:30pm |
Friday | 11am - 7pm |
Saturday | 8:30am - 6pm |
Sunday | 11am - 6:30pm |
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Salvatore Spatafora, UHG’s Craniotherapist & RMT, wants patients to get curious and creative when engaging with their musculoskeletal health. He shares: “When I’m with clients, we talk about muscles in a way where I want to understand behaviour, activities, and how they’re participating in their own joy.” By incorporating more playful, creative activities into your life, you can encourage a more dynamic range of movement. He adds: “Many people live in a postural stiffness that comes from isolated activities: two-dimensional movements. They’re not really being asked to be very creative in their life, or their workplace, for that matter. If you engage something creatively, you cannot be in a posture that’s singular and two-dimensional.” Adopting a childlike eye can open you to new ways of approaching your musculoskeletal health. Salvatore shares, “There’s a curiosity that’s so vital to health. It really exists in the inner child: this quality of pure joy in participating in the dance of life. How many people’s inner child is happy?” Salvatore adds that rather than focussing solely on the external benefits of musculoskeletal health, it’s essential to pay attention to what movements feel good inside: “We’ve bought into the bigger concept of the nine to five, one position, one place, a computer, but the body is so dynamic. I mean, it’s a travesty that we cannot do more, and our bodies are constantly reminding us through discomfort and stiffness and pain.” #children #creativeplay #dancing #learningthroughplay #playing #momlife #movement #instagood #toddler #beachlife #toddlerlife #games #babygirl #funtime #massagetherapy #health #summer #friends #nature #sensoryplay #wellness #babyboy #kidsactivities #bodymovement #exercisefun #cutedogs #photography #parenting #playtime #photooftheday
Do your best to commit to movement. It can be challenging to keep up with your exercise prescription if your work requires you to sit stationary at a computer all day long. “That’s where people like chiropractors, physios, and healthcare practitioners are beneficial,” says Dr. Alessia, “but sometimes people can’t come in for a while. Maybe they’re going on vacation, or it’s not affordable. That’s where it’s very important to emphasize movement.” Motion is Lotion Dr. Alessia adds, “I like to use the phrase motion is lotion when I promote movement to my patients. The more you avoid moving, the harder it is to move, and the more pain you’re going to feel.” #musculoskeletal #backpain #pain #health #chiropractor #neckpain #chiropractic #healthcare #physiotherapy #spine #physicaltherapy #nervoussystem #rehabilitation #holistichealth #holistic #familychiropractic #pediatricchiropractic #chiropracticforkids #kids #thrive #womenchiropractors #torontoexercise #torontochiropractor #toronto #gym #justgetchecked #midtownchiropractor #movement #chiropracticforbabies #torontophysio
Book your adjustment today: https://uhg.janeapp.com/#/discipline/4/treatment/58 New adult, youth & infant patient times: https://uhg.janeapp.com/#/discipline/4/treatment/76 Midtown Yonge BIA
“As a part of your treatment plan, I will always recommend active care specific to your condition, lifestyle, and goals,” shares Dr. Christina. “It is my goal that you become an active participant in your treatment plan.” Practice Spinal Mobility Exercises: The segmental cat-cow exercise is an excellent example of active care for optimizing spinal mobility. Dr. Christina recommends this exercise to her patients because it allows them to actively flex and extend their spine, one joint at a time. When you focus on moving each segment, you’re ensuring that each joint moves, including those in restricted areas on your spine. How to Practice Segmental Cat-Cow 1. Start on all fours with your chin tucked and neck in line with your spine. 2. Slowly point your tailbone towards the ceiling. Your pelvis will follow and tilt into the “Cat” position. 3. Starting from the bottom of your spine, visualize pulling each segment toward the ground, one at a time. 4. When you reach the mid-back, you may experience more restriction. Imagine pulling your chest toward the ground. Use the muscles in your back to arch your spine down one segment at a time. 5. When you reach the top of your spine, do not extend your neck back. Instead, carefully look up and keep your neck aligned with your spine. 6. Next, reverse the movement by imagining that each segment of your spine is lifting toward the ceiling. Gently push your hands into the ground. Raise each segment of your spine from the upper back to the pelvis. Engage your abdominal muscles to help you tuck your pelvis inward. 7. From here, tilt your tailbone and pelvis again and repeat the Segmented Cat-Cow cycle 3-5 times. #life #selflove #yogaposes #fit #selfcare #catcow #chiropractic #inspiration #movement #toronto #instagood #yogajourney #chiro #lifestyle #balance #training #hathayoga #o #flexibility #happiness #sport #spine #spinalhealth #exercise #healthy #instayoga #instagram #energy #yogisofinstagram #n
Check out our long weekend hours. Yes, we are open for chiropractic, physiotherapy & massage Saturday AND massages on Monday!!! Book now: uhg.janeapp.com #weekend #love #weekendvibes #instagood #saturday #happy #friday #sunday #summer #nature #photography #photooftheday #travel #instagram #picoftheday #friends #fun #like #health #smile #food #follow #family #relax #party #me #selfie #beautiful #life #pineapple
Yes, we are all patients of each other. Shockwave is our newest toy at the clinic and we are all lining up to try it out! Physio is available Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays (call to book) & Saturdays!
Happy Friday! Dr. Christina here with my favourite, FREE meditation app Insight Timer. To stay peaceful (our theme of the week), I have been exploring the practice of yoga nidra. This quick video will show you my current favourite. ❤️
Hi friends, Katie here. Admittedly, while home alone, I haven't been great at designated workouts. Instead, in order to keep moving I've been taking full advantage of solitude and am practicing my most embarrassing dance moves 😂😂 please enjoy this sample. #athomewithuhg
Hey everyone! Kaitlyn here. Foam rolling is an important part of my workout routine. I love using it before and after my workouts to help loosen up any tight muscles Don’t forget to stop, drop and roll 🏋🏼♂️😀👍🏻 #athomewithUHG
Hey guys. Kari here. One thing I've been doing to keep active is I'm doing a 30 day yoga challenge on YouTube by yoga with adriene. I'm still definitely very awkward but im keeping at it and currently on day 18 💃🤡💪💁🧘
Good morning followers. Tara here hopping on my pilates reformer for some great core exercises. #athomewithUHG #pilates #workingonmyposture
Physical activity has been helping me stay healthy and happy, especially during the past few weeks. Last week I got my first board! While challenging my balance and proprioception, I've been loving the feel of a clean, steezy carve down a path. *'Steez,' I have recently learned on the web, is boarder slang for exhibiting style with ease. Stay steezy! #athomewithUHG
This Easter weekend, Dr. Christina is thankful for her treats from the Easter Bunny! Hoppy long weekend, everyone 😊
Did you know we NOW have online booking? Massage, Chiropractic, Chiropody & Acupuncture are all available at the click of a button. Check out our available massages Thursday, Friday & Saturday!
🔈Dr. Christina shares her first massage experience with our newest RMT Gerry. He offers a unique combination of traditional Japanese Shiatsu, Chinese Tuina & Thai massage. We call it the “Gerry Technique”. Call to book 416-489-0077 #thaimassage #massagetherapy
New orthotics are needed regularly as your child’s feet grow. 👣 What colour would your kids pick? Join us this PA Day (Friday, November 16th 9am-2pm) for appointments with Katie our Chiropodist.
Our mission is to inspire a fundamental shift in thinking away from the treatment of illness and towards the creation of wellness and vitality through chiropractic, massage therapy, holistic healthcare, lifestyle education and personal empowerment.
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