oakridge-chiropractic

Back to School: How Chiropractic Care Prepares Kids & Teens for Fall

Sat, 19 Sep 2026 14:00:04 GMT

As Calgary parents gear up for a new school year, ensuring your child’s physical health is just as important as shopping for school supplies or planning a fresh schedule. Transitioning back to school often means kids and teens will spend long hours sitting in classrooms, carrying heavy backpacks, and joining after-school sports or recreational activities—all of which can put strain on growing bodies. At Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre, our Calgary team is here to help your family thrive this school year with gentle, effective, and holistic chiropractic care designed for young patients.

Why Chiropractic Care Matters for School-Aged Children

Many parents don’t realize that children and teenagers face common musculoskeletal stressors that can impact their comfort, concentration, and overall well-being. From improper backpack use to awkward sitting postures and sports injuries, the school season brings unique physical demands. Our Calgary chiropractic clinic specializes in identifying and addressing biomechanical issues early, helping your child avoid chronic pain and start the fall term at their best.

Benefits of routine chiropractic care for students include:

Improved posture for better concentration and learning
Relief from tension headaches or back pain related to heavy backpacks
Enhanced flexibility and overall mobility for sports and gym class
Faster recovery from strains or sprains
Support for a healthy, growing spine and nervous system function

Backpack Safety Tips: Protecting Young Spines

One of the most common issues we see at Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre is backpack-related discomfort. The wrong backpack or improper carrying habits can lead to poor posture, back pain, and even long-term spinal issues. Here’s how to keep your child safe:

Choose a backpack that’s the right size (never wider or longer than your child’s torso).
Look for padded, adjustable shoulder straps and a padded back panel.
Encourage using both straps to distribute weight evenly—no more one-shoulder carrying.
Pack the heaviest items close to the back and keep total weight under 10-15% of your child’s body weight.
Remind kids to use lockers or cubbies to store unnecessary books.

Visiting our Calgary clinic for a back-to-school spinal check can help spot and prevent many backpack-related issues before they become bigger problems.

Posture & Desk Ergonomics for Better Learning

With so much of a child’s day spent at a desk, poor sitting habits can easily become second nature. Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre emphasizes the long-term importance of good posture:

Feet flat on the floor and knees at a 90-degree angle.
Shoulders relaxed and back straight against the chair.
Computer screens at eye level to avoid neck strain.
Regular stretch breaks every 30-45 minutes.

If your student already struggles with headaches, neck, or back pain during homework or computer use, our experienced chiropractors can recommend individualized strategies. School and home ergonomic assessments are also available to ensure your child’s learning environment promotes healthy development.

Supporting Young Athletes and Active Teens

Fall is a busy season for Calgary’s student athletes. Whether it’s soccer, football, volleyball, or golf, an active lifestyle is terrific for kids—but overuse injuries, muscle strains, and joint restrictions can occur. Our specialized services, including TPI Golf Performance and Active Release Technique, are tailored to optimize movement and speed up recovery, helping your child stay in the game safely.

Common concerns we address in young athletes:

Sprains, strains, and repetitive motion injuries
Joint pain or swelling after intense activity
Flexibility or mobility challenges
Support for overall performance and prevention

We work collaboratively with parents, coaches, and teachers to create a complete care plan that integrates chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, stretching, and sport-specific advice.

Start the School Year Strong—Book Your Family’s Back-to-School Exam

At Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre, we believe every Calgary family deserves a pain-free, active, and successful school year. That’s why our clinic offers personalized chiropractic care, massage therapy, sports therapy, orthotic fittings, and more—all under one roof in SW Calgary, conveniently located in the Oakridge Professional Building.

Don’t let back pain, posture problems, or sports injuries slow your child down this fall. Book your child’s back-to-school spinal exam today and give them the advantage of expert care from our trusted Calgary chiropractors.

Contact Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre or book your appointment online . Help your kids unlock their full potential this school year—schedule their visit now and keep them thriving, both in and out of the classroom!

How Massage Therapy & Osteopathy Help You Recharge After Calgary’s Summer Adventures

Wed, 02 Sep 2026 14:01:31 GMT

Summer in Calgary is a season of long days, outdoor adventures, and social events. But with busy schedules, increased travel, and changes in daily routines, this vibrant time of year can also bring its own set of stressors. Whether you’re hitting the trails in Fish Creek Park, planning family road trips, or just trying to keep up with summer activities, it’s important to prioritize your physical and mental well-being. That’s where expert massage therapy and osteopathy at Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre can make a real difference.

Why Choose Massage Therapy & Osteopathy During Calgary’s Summer Months?

The warm weather inspires us to be more active—hiking, golfing, running, or cycling throughout Calgary and surrounding areas. While these activities are excellent for overall health, they can sometimes lead to muscle tightness, soreness, minor strains, and structural imbalances. At the same time, the pressure to manage a packed social calendar or juggle family commitments can raise your stress levels, impacting both mind and body.

Professional massage therapy and manual osteopathy are more than just relaxing indulgences. They are powerful, complementary tools for stress relief, injury prevention, structural alignment, and muscle recovery, helping you maintain your energy and momentum all summer long.

Key Benefits of Combining Massage & Osteopathy for Summer Stress Relief

Targeted pain and tension relief: Whether it’s tight shoulders from long car rides or sore legs after a marathon bike ride, massage therapy relieves immediate muscle tension, while osteopathy looks for and treats the root mechanical causes of your discomfort to prevent it from returning.
Boosted mood and mental clarity: Both therapies have a profoundly calming effect on the nervous system. Massage lowers cortisol levels and releases endorphins, while osteopathic treatments help balance the sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems, leaving you focused and ready to tackle your summer plans.
Improved sleep quality: Calgary’s extended daylight hours can disrupt sleep. Regular manual therapy can improve sleep patterns by releasing physical restrictions and promoting deep systemic relaxation, helping you rest and recover faster.
Enhanced mobility and flexibility: Massage supports better muscle function, while osteopathy restores proper joint mechanics and fluid dynamics, allowing you to take full advantage of all the summer fun Calgary has to offer with a full, pain-free range of motion.
Management of chronic conditions: Beyond temporary stress relief, this combined approach is highly effective in managing chronic issues such as Fibromyalgia, TMJ, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, and various neurological conditions, ensuring they don't hold you back from enjoying the season.

Personalized Massage & Osteopathic Care at Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre

At Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre, our highly trained massage therapists and manual osteopaths offer a range of techniques designed to support your unique summer lifestyle. From gentle relaxation to deep tissue targeting and full-body structural alignment, we deliver customized care based on your needs, activity level, and health goals.

Our Massage Therapy services include:

Swedish massage for relaxation and chronic stress relief.
Deep tissue massage to target stubborn knots and muscle tension.
Sports massage for athletes and active individuals seeking performance and injury prevention.
Cranial sacral therapy to gently relieve compression in the head, neck, and back.
Prenatal massage to support expectant mothers safely and comfortably.
Lymphatic drainage to encourage natural lymph flow and reduce swelling.
Active and passive stretching to improve your range of motion and joint flexibility.
Trigger point therapy to address specific areas of pain or tightness.

Our Osteopathy services focus on:

Holistic assessment and treatment: Viewing the body as an interconnected unit to find the primary source of pain or dysfunction rather than just treating symptoms.
Gentle manual adjustments: Improving the mobility of joints, soft tissues, and organs to optimize blood flow and nerve function.
Myofascial release: Freeing up restrictions in the connective tissue that supports your entire musculoskeletal system.

During your first visit, our practitioners will perform a thorough assessment of your health history, activity patterns, and individual preferences. This ensures your session is not only relaxing but also profoundly safe and effective for your body.

How to Maximize Your Summer Wellness Experience

To get the most from your treatments this summer, consider the following tips:

Stay hydrated before and after your session to help your body release toxins and your tissues adapt to structural changes more quickly.
Communicate clearly with your practitioner about recent activities, areas of discomfort, and any health concerns.
Book appointments around periods of peak activity, such as before or after special events or athletic endeavors.
Consider combining your massage and osteopathy sessions for a truly comprehensive, holistic approach to your body's recovery and alignment.

Why Calgarians Trust Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre

For more than 40 years, Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre has served Calgary and nearby communities as a trusted source for effective, compassionate health care. Located inside the convenient Oakridge Professional Building, our clinic features experienced massage therapists and manual osteopaths who work collaboratively with chiropractors and other practitioners to ensure you receive the best possible results.

We’re committed to helping you stay active and stress-free, no matter how busy your summer gets. Our well-established local reputation, focus on individualized care, and wide range of complementary therapies set us apart as a top choice for health and wellness in Calgary.

Ready to Rejuvenate Your Mind and Body This Summer?

Don’t let stress, tension, or minor injuries keep you from enjoying everything Calgary’s summer has to offer. Experience the synergistic health benefits of personalized massage therapy and osteopathy at Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre. Contact us today to book your appointment and take the first step towards a more relaxed, rejuvenated, and energized summer.

Visit Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre or call our friendly team to schedule your summer wellness session. Your health is our priority—let us help you savor every moment of the season, pain- and stress-free!

Conquer Pelvic Floor Health: How Emsella® Chair Supports Men & Women

Tue, 18 Aug 2026 14:00:16 GMT

When it comes to personal health and wellness, pelvic floor issues can often be overlooked or misunderstood—especially by those struggling with urinary incontinence and pelvic muscle weakness. The good news is that advanced, non-invasive treatments are available right here in Calgary, and Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre is leading the way with the innovative Emsella Chair. Whether you’re a mother recovering from childbirth, a man facing age-related changes, or someone simply looking to regain confidence and freedom of movement, Emsella offers a solution designed for both women and men.

Why Pelvic Floor Health Matters

The pelvic floor is a group of muscles that support the bladder, intestines, and reproductive organs. When these muscles weaken—due to aging, childbirth, menopause, surgery, or lifestyle factors—individuals can experience issues such as:

Urinary incontinence (leakage or urgency)
Reduced intimate sensation
Back or hip pain
Poor posture or instability

Ignoring these symptoms can not only affect your daily comfort but also your overall well-being and self-confidence.

Emsella: A Revolution in Pelvic Floor Therapy

Traditional treatments for pelvic floor dysfunction have ranged from physical therapy and Kegel exercises to invasive procedures or medications. However, the Emsella Chair offers a unique alternative conveniently located in Calgary, at Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre. This state-of-the-art technology utilizes High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic (HIFEM) energy to stimulate and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles—pain-free and without the need to remove your clothing.

Key benefits of the Emsella Chair at Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre may include:

Improved bladder control: Helps reduce stress, urge, and mixed urinary incontinence, including leakage with coughing, sneezing, laughing, or exercise.
Strengthened pelvic floor muscles: Each session produces the equivalent of roughly 11,800 Kegel contractions, helping retrain and strengthen the muscles that support bladder and pelvic function.
Enhanced core stability and pelvic support: Stronger pelvic floor muscles may contribute to improved posture, core engagement, and functional movement.
Non-invasive and comfortable: No surgery, probes, anesthesia, or downtime are required. Patients sit comfortably and fully clothed during treatment.
Convenient treatment sessions: Sessions last about 28 minutes with no recovery time, allowing patients to resume normal activities immediately afterward.
Suitable for both women and men: Commonly used for postpartum recovery, age-related pelvic floor weakening, post-menopausal symptoms, nocturia (waking up at night to urinate), and urinary incontinence in both sexes.
May improve confidence and quality of life: Reduced urgency and leakage can help patients feel more comfortable during exercise, travel, social activities, and daily routines.
Improved intimate wellness and sensation: Some patients report enhanced sexual wellness and increased pelvic muscle awareness and tone.

How Does the Emsella Chair Work?

During a typical Emsella session at Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre in Calgary, you’ll sit comfortably on the specialized Emsella Chair while the machine’s HIFEM technology sends thousands of powerful contractions through your pelvic floor. These supramaximal contractions retrain the muscles to function correctly, restoring strength and neuromuscular control.

The procedure is quick, painless, and efficient. Most clients begin to notice improvements after three or four sessions, with a standard treatment course involving six appointments over three weeks.

Who Can Benefit from Emsella in Calgary?

Emsella is designed for adults of all ages and backgrounds. You might consider booking a session if you experience:

Leaking when you cough, sneeze, or exercise
Frequent or urgent urination
A sensation of pelvic heaviness or discomfort
Challenges with intimate wellness post-childbirth or menopause
Age-related pelvic muscle weakness (experienced by both women and men)

Local Calgary residents have taken advantage of Emsella therapy as a discreet, cost-effective, and convenient alternative to surgery or ongoing medication. At Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre, our friendly, professional team ensures that every treatment is tailored to your unique goals, comfort, and health history.

Frequently Asked Questions About Emsella at Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre

Is Emsella safe?

Yes. Emsella is Health Canada-approved, completely non-invasive, and performed under the supervision of experienced practitioners.

Is there any downtime?

None. You can return to work or your daily routine immediately after each session.

How long do results last?

On average, benefits from an EMSELLA® series can last from six months up to several years, depending on lifestyle and health factors. Maintenance sessions are available and may help prolong results.

Do I need a referral to access Emsella?

No referral is needed to book your consultation or treatment at Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre in Calgary.

Why Choose Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre for Emsella in Calgary?

Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre has served Calgary and surrounding communities for over 40 years, offering patient-centered care and a multi-disciplinary approach to your health needs. Our skilled practitioners combine experience, compassion, and the latest technology to help restore your quality of life. We prioritize your privacy, comfort, and personal goals in a professional, welcoming clinic environment in the Oakridge Professional Building.

Take the Next Step Toward Pelvic Floor Health

If you’re ready to reclaim your confidence and comfort, now is the time to take action. Discover how Emsella at Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre can help you overcome urinary incontinence and support lasting pelvic health—no surgery, no downtime, just powerful results.

Contact Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre today to book your Emsella consultation. Let our Calgary-based team design a personalized pelvic floor health plan to get you back to living your life without limitations. Call us or visit our website to schedule your appointment and take the first step to better health and wellness.

Is EmSculpt NEO® Right for You? Body Strengthening for a Confident Summer

Tue, 04 Aug 2026 18:52:16 GMT

Summer in Calgary is the perfect time to get outdoors and enjoy everything the city offers—from hiking in Fish Creek Park to strolling along the Bow River. If you want to feel stronger, improve your core stability, or enhance your body's functional movement without surgery, EmSculpt NEO® could be the solution you’re searching for. Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre delivers this advanced technology to help residents in Calgary and surrounding communities achieve their physical and aesthetic goals safely and efficiently.

What is EmSculpt NEO®? Understanding Calgary’s Advanced Muscle and Core Solution

EmSculpt NEO® is a non-surgical treatment that utilizes a unique combination of High-Intensity Focused Electromagnetic (HIFEM™) technology and radiofrequency (RF). While it is well-known for body contouring, its true power lies in its ability to simultaneously build profound muscle strength and support functional movement, with fat reduction as an added benefit. As awareness of non-invasive conditioning grows, EmSculpt NEO® stands as one of Calgary’s leading innovations for those seeking a noticeable transformation in their physical capabilities and core stability without the risks of surgery.

How Does EmSculpt NEO® Work? The Science Behind a Stronger You

Unlike traditional body contouring options that focus solely on fat, EmSculpt NEO® prioritizes muscle building and core strengthening. Here’s how it works:

HIFEM™ technology induces thousands of supramaximal muscle contractions, strengthening your core far beyond what's typically achievable through exercise alone.
Synchronized RF energy gently heats the muscles to prepare them for stress (similar to a warm-up) while simultaneously heating fat cells to trigger their natural breakdown.
Each 30-minute session helps retrain and strengthen muscle fibers, creating firmer, more defined muscles while improving overall stability.
Treated fat cells are eliminated naturally through your lymphatic system over several weeks.

By harnessing these two proven technologies, EmSculpt NEO® can help condition your abdomen, buttocks, arms, thighs, or calves with no surgical downtime—perfect for those with busy Calgary lifestyles.

Why Do Calgarians Choose EmSculpt NEO®? Locally Relevant Benefits

Whether you’re spending the day in Glenmore Park, returning to sports, or simply navigating daily life, a strong core improves your overall well-being. Here is how EmSculpt NEO® benefits our patients:

Core strengthening and improved muscle function: Induces supramaximal contractions to strengthen abdominal and core muscles, which can improve posture, stability, balance, and functional movement.

Muscle building and toning: Clinical studies commonly report up to a 25% increase in muscle mass in treated areas, enhancing definition in the abdomen, buttocks, arms, thighs, and calves.

Enhanced exercise performance: Patients often describe improved muscle engagement, endurance, and overall workout performance after treatment.

Support for post-pregnancy core rehabilitation: Helps rebuild core strength, improve abdominal tone, and address abdominal separation (diastasis recti) once medically cleared.
Fat reduction and improved body contour: RF energy triggers the breakdown of fat (up to a 30% reduction), creating a firmer, more sculpted appearance alongside muscle gains.
No downtime or recovery: Treatments are typically 30 minutes long, allowing you to return to regular activities immediately afterward.
Non-surgical alternative: Offers effective muscle conditioning and body sculpting without needles, anesthesia, or incisions.

Who is the Ideal Candidate for EmSculpt NEO® in Calgary?

EmSculpt NEO® suits individuals who want to prioritize their functional health, address muscle weakness, and increase definition. Ideal candidates are:

Adults committed to maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle.
Individuals looking to improve core stability, posture, and functional movement.
People seeking post-pregnancy core rehabilitation (with medical clearance).
Athletes and active Calgarians wanting to enhance their exercise endurance and performance.
Those seeking a non-surgical way to build muscle tone and achieve targeted body refinement.

( Note: This is not a substitute for weight loss, but a powerful tool for muscle conditioning and targeted body refinement.)

How to Prepare for EmSculpt NEO®: Calgary Clinic Recommendations

Before your EmSculpt NEO® treatment at Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre, your provider will review your health history and discuss your goals. To get the most from your sessions:

Stay hydrated before and after appointments.
Dress in comfortable clothing.
Share any medical conditions or metal implants with your practitioner.
Follow personalized advice from your Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre team.

What Results Can You Expect, and How Long Do They Last?

Clients typically undergo a series of six treatments spaced one week apart. Results can be seen as early as two weeks following the final treatment and continue to improve over several months. To ensure optimal outcomes:

Continue regular physical activity and balanced nutrition.
Schedule maintenance sessions if recommended by your provider.
Expect improved muscle function, enhanced core stability, and a permanent reduction of treated fat cells.

Why Choose Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre for EmSculpt NEO® in Calgary?

At Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre, our skilled team brings over 40 years of trusted healthcare experience to every treatment. We are dedicated to helping Calgary residents move better, feel stronger, and look their best all year round. Our personalized approach ensures that your EmSculpt NEO® experience is safe, comfortable, and tailored to your unique functional and aesthetic goals.

Ready to Start Your Strength and Confidence Journey?

A stronger, more functional summer body is within reach. If you’re considering EmSculpt NEO® in Calgary or want to explore the possibilities of advanced muscle conditioning, book a consultation with Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre today. Our friendly team will answer your questions, assess your goals, and design a plan that empowers you to move and feel your very best.

Visit us or call us to schedule your appointment . Take the first step toward a stronger you this summer!

Golf Injury Prevention: TPI Golf Performance Benefits for Calgary Golfers

Tue, 21 Jul 2026 18:33:11 GMT

If you’re a passionate golfer in Calgary or the surrounding areas, you know that golf season is an exciting time to get outside and hit the greens. But while golf may seem less physically demanding than most contact sports, it can take a harsh toll on your body, especially when improper movement patterns or old injuries are involved. Injuries like lower back pain, golfer’s elbow, or shoulder strains are all too common—and they can shorten your playing season or keep you off the course altogether.

At Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre, we understand the unique challenges faced by Calgary’s golf community, from casual weekend players to seasoned competitors. That’s why we offer specialized Titleist Performance Institute (TPI) Golf Performance, designed to keep you pain-free and swinging with confidence all season long.

What Is TPI Golf Performance?

TPI Golf Performance is an evidence-based program focused on the "Body-Swing Connection," an approach recognized across North America for transforming golf performance and preventing injuries. By combining advanced screening protocols and targeted rehabilitation, TPI Golf Performance helps golfers improve joint mobility, stability, and overall body mechanics.

Whether you’re playing at one of Calgary’s renowned golf courses like Heritage Pointe or Shaganappi Point, or practicing your swing at a local driving range, understanding the way your body moves is key to reducing risk and optimizing your performance.

Common Golf Injuries Among Calgary Golfers

Golf injuries are typically caused by repetitive motion, poor swing mechanics, or physical limitations. Among Calgary golfers, the most prevalent conditions include:

Lower back pain due to over-rotation and improper posture
Golfer’s elbow caused by repetitive strain on the forearm muscles
Shoulder injuries, including rotator cuff strains and impingement
Wrist and hand pain from gripping and impact forces
Hip and knee strains related to insufficient mobility

Without proactive management, these issues can linger, disrupt your game, and even lead to more serious musculoskeletal problems.

How TPI Golf Performance Can Help

At Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre, our TPI Certified professionals follow a structured, three-phase process that delivers results you can see—and feel—on the course:

1. Comprehensive Physical Screening

Every golfer’s body is unique. Our assessments include TPI screening to evaluate how your body might be affecting your golf swing or if your golf swing is the main cause of your injuries. This holistic evaluation reveals the hidden factors behind:

Loss of posture during the golf swing
Early extension or swaying
Restricted hip and shoulder rotation
Core stability deficits

2. Personalized Rehabilitation Plans

Based on your assessment, we develop a custom rehabilitation and strengthening plan. This often includes:

Golf-specific chiropractic adjustments to improve spinal alignment and flexibility
Active Release Technique (ART) and soft tissue therapy to address scar tissue and tight muscles
Kinesiotaping and shockwave therapy for faster recovery from tendinitis or muscle strains
Guided strength, mobility, and stretching exercises targeting key muscle groups involved in the golf swing

3. Golf Swing Optimization

By restoring proper movement patterns and correcting muscle imbalances, you’ll optimize the efficiency and power of your swing while reducing the risk of future injuries. Our focus is not just on treating pain, but on ensuring long-term performance and enjoyment whenever you’re out playing golf in Calgary.

The Local Calgary Advantage

Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre is proud to serve the Calgary golf community—including Oakridge, Braeside, Cedarbrae, Pump Hill, Woodlands, and surrounding neighbourhoods. As a clinic with over 40 years of experience in musculoskeletal health, we work closely with local golfers and coaches to integrate TPI insights into real-world performance improvements.

Why Trust Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre for TPI Golf Performance?

We offer an expert, interdisciplinary approach backed by current technology and a deep understanding of golf biomechanics. When you choose us, you benefit from:

Evidence-based, individualized care tailored for Calgary golfers
Access to advanced diagnostics and sport-specific therapies
A holistic approach that prioritizes both injury prevention and performance enhancement
On-site collaboration with chiropractors and massage therapists

Ready to Stay Injury-Free This Golf Season?

Don’t let preventable pain interfere with your love of golf. TPI Golf Performance at Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre is your path to a safer, more enjoyable season—whether you’re chasing lower scores or simply playing for fun with friends.

Book your comprehensive golf assessment today at Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre, or call us to learn more about how we help Calgary golfers swing stronger, play longer, and stay pain-free.

Get back to doing what you love—without letting injuries hold you back. Reach out now and start your journey to peak golf performance!

Beat Summer Back Pain: Expert Tips from Calgary Chiropractors

Tue, 07 Jul 2026 18:27:06 GMT

Summer in Calgary brings longer days, outdoor adventures, and a fresh energy to enjoy local favorites like hiking in the Rockies, biking around the Glenmore Reservoir, or attending Stampede celebrations. But for many Calgarians, summer fun can be interrupted by nagging back pain. Whether it’s from increased activity, yardwork, travel, or even long hours at festivals, back discomfort and injuries often spike this time of year. At Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre, we believe life’s too short to be slowed down by pain. Here’s how you can keep your back healthy all summer long with expert advice from our Calgary chiropractors .

Why Does Summer Back Pain Happen More Often?

The warm months encourage us all to get outside, but changes in your routine can stress your spine and muscles. Common local causes of summer back pain include:

Sudden increase in physical activity, like hiking, sports, or golf
Poor lifting technique with gardening, landscaping, or moving patio furniture
Long drives to destinations like Banff, Lake Louise, or nearby campgrounds
Sleeping on unfamiliar beds or camping mattresses
Dehydration and heat, which can impact muscle function and recovery

Understanding the reasons behind your back discomfort is the first step to avoiding it. Chiropractic care focuses not only on providing immediate pain relief but also on uncovering the root causes, so you can get back to enjoying Calgary’s best months.

Top Tips to Protect Your Back This Summer

Get Moving—But Ease Into Activity

After a winter of limited outdoor activity, your body might not be ready for intense summer adventures. Calgary chiropractors recommend:

Gradually increasing exercise intensity over several weeks
Including warm-ups and gentle stretches before biking, golfing, or hiking
Building core strength with exercises recommended by your chiropractor or performance specialist
Staying hydrated, especially during hot Alberta afternoons

Protect Your Back During Yardwork and Gardening

Yardwork is a summer staple in neighborhoods like Oakridge, Braeside, and Palliser. But repetitive bending or lifting heavy bags can strain your lower back. Here’s how to minimize the risk:

Use correct lifting techniques: bend at the knees, not the waist
Avoid twisting while lifting or carrying
Take frequent breaks and switch activities often
Consider using ergonomic gardening tools and knee pads

Travel Smart to Reduce Back Strain

Road trips to the mountains or camping getaways are a summer highlight for many Calgarians, but hours of sitting can tighten hip flexors and strain your back. Instead:

Take stretch breaks every hour during long drives
Support your lower back with a rolled towel or travel pillow
Adjust car seats to promote upright posture with both feet flat on the floor
Pack light, lifting suitcases with your legs, not your back

How Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre Can Help You Stay Pain-Free

Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre offers a comprehensive approach to musculoskeletal health, combining chiropractic adjustments, massage therapy, Active Release Techniques (ART), and Graston Technique for effective relief and prevention. If you’re dealing with recurring or acute summer back pain, our individualized treatment plans are designed to get you back to the activities you love.

Our services for back pain relief include:

Chiropractic assessment and adjustments to restore spinal alignment
Soft tissue therapies such as ART and massage to reduce muscle tension
Personalized recommendations for exercise, posture, and ergonomics
Acupuncture and shockwave therapy for chronic pain conditions
Custom orthotics if foot imbalances are contributing to your back pain

Prevention Strategies for an Active Calgary Summer

Explore these proactive steps to minimize future discomfort and maximize your enjoyment:

Book a preseason chiropractic assessment to identify potential issues
Incorporate routine massages for muscle recovery and stress reduction
Follow a stretching and strengthening plan tailored to your specific needs

Ask your chiropractor about supportive taping (kinesiotaping) or orthotics for long walking or standing events like the Calgary Stampede or market days

When to See a Calgary Chiropractor

Prompt attention by a local professional can quickly resolve minor concerns before they become major problems. Seek care if you experience:

Pain lasting more than a few days or worsening with activity
Numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs
Difficulty with walking, balance, or daily function
Previous back injuries that flare up with summer activities

Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre is conveniently located in the Oakridge Professional Building, serving Oakridge and surrounding Calgary communities including Braeside, Palliser, Cedarbrae, and beyond. Our team provides professional, compassionate care with a strong focus on helping active Calgarians live life to the fullest.

Ready to Enjoy a Pain-Free Summer?

If you want to beat summer back pain and stay active all season, book an appointment with Oakridge Chiropractic and Wellness Centre today. Our experienced Calgary chiropractors and wellness team are here to help you move, play, and live without discomfort—because you deserve to make the most of every sunny day. Contact us now to start your journey towards a healthier, pain-free summer!

Kids' Sports and Lifestyle Injuries

Thu, 14 May 2026 20:14:19 GMT

Nearly three-quarters of families with children between the ages of 5 and 18 have at least one child who participates in organized sports, either at school or on a community team. Almost one-third of all childhood injuries are related to sports activities, with the most common injuries being strains and sprains.

Chiropractic’s focus on spinal structure and the nervous system can play a role in helping kids minimize injuries and perform at their peak, especially during growth and development stages. Chiropractors are also valuable educators for kids (and parents!) about how to optimize performance through healthy habits and exercise.

Besides sports injuries, other challenges to children’s health include long periods of sitting, bending over desks doing schoolwork, and hunching over phones or tablets. Another issue is carrying heavy backpacks, which can cause rounding of the shoulders and a tendency to lean forward. This results in muscular imbalances causing muscle strain or spasm, as well as irritation to the joints of the spine and rib cage.

Regular chiropractic check-ups – and if needed, treatment – can help alleviate the skeletal and muscular imbalances that children face each day, through sports, school, or leisure activities, and can help prevent further problems later in life.

Tennis Elbow

Thu, 14 May 2026 20:12:39 GMT

Also known as lateral epicondylitis, tennis elbow can affect anyone who overuses the tendons in the forearm near the elbow. Repetitive daily activities such as painting, cooking and typing, or recreational activities like texting (and tennis!), can cause damage as well as chronic inflammation, making it painful to bend your wrist or grasp objects with your hand. Even holding items for long periods of time can lead to this condition.

Patients typically seek help when they feel pain in the bone known as the lateral epicondyle, on the outer edge of the elbow. Pain actually comes from the bone and tendons attached to the lateral epicondyle. Along with Active Release treatments performed by an ART®-certified chiropractor like Dr. Watson or Dr. Barlot, icing the area, stretching, and limiting repetitive activities may aid in the healing process.

Plantar Fasciitis

Thu, 14 May 2026 20:11:15 GMT

Your feet have a thick, fibrous band of tissue (“fascia”) stretching from your heel to your toes. These tissues support the muscles and arch of the foot. When they’re over-stretched, tiny tears can occur. Inflammation or deterioration of this tissue results in symptoms that include pain in the bottom of your foot – at the front or center of the heel bone. You might notice that it’s worse in the morning when you first wake up and take a few steps, or when you stand up after having been seated for a long time. You’re also more likely to feel it right after exercise.

Once inflamed, you should rest and ice the area. Book an appointment with our chiropractors for ART® treatment. These treatments focus on locating and treating the scar tissues adhesions accumulated in the muscles and soft tissues with the goal of breaking down the adhesions, increasing tissue flexibility, movement and comfort, and restoring full flexibility, balance and stability.

Treatment with ART® is applied to the plantar fascia, calf muscles, and other muscles of the foot. The treatment is complemented with specific foot strengthening and stability exercises. Extracorporeal Shockwave Therapy is another treatment option for plantar fasciitis.

Piriformis Syndrome

Thu, 14 May 2026 20:08:41 GMT

Piriformis syndrome is a common cause of posterior hip and leg pain that occurs when the sciatic nerve is compressed or irritated by the piriformis muscle – a muscle that is located deep in the back of the hip. As the sciatic nerve becomes irritated it can lead to symptoms such as pain, tingling and numbness along the path of the sciatic nerve, including into the buttocks and down the back of the thigh.

Excessive or repetitive use with certain sports or occupations can cause this irritation to develop within the piriformis. Prolonged sitting can also strain the piriformis as it stretches the muscle, which reduces blood flow and leads to tightness and irritation.

Problems can develop when the piriformis muscle is subjected to ongoing micro-trauma over the course of weeks or months (i.e. we continue to play the same sports, do the same jobs, or sit all day). This leads to an accumulation of scar tissue, making the piriformis tight, stiff, and inflamed, and may start to compress and irritate the sciatic nerve as it passes underneath the muscle.

The goal of treatment for Piriformis Syndrome is to break-up restrictive scar tissue adhesions and restore normal sliding motion of the sciatica nerve at the hip. Fortunately, ART® in combination with chiropractic adjustments, is a very effective therapy for Piriformis Syndrome, and both Dr. Watson and Dr. Barlot can provide treatment.

Patellar Tendonitis (Jumper’s Knee)

Thu, 14 May 2026 20:07:30 GMT

Patellar Tendonitis is also commonly referred to as “Jumper’s Knee.” Jumper’s Knee is pain around the patella or knee cap, often described as a dull ache deep in the front of the knee. Under the kneecap is a layer of cartilage which acts as a natural shock absorber. Injury, overuse, and aging can cause damage to that cartilage, resulting in pain and reduced mobility. Pain is often made worse when sitting with knees bent for a long time, squatting or kneeling, or when walking up and down stairs.

The patellar tendon connects the quadriceps muscle to patella and then the patella to the tibia or shin bone. Contraction of the quadriceps muscle causes the lower leg to extend through the patella tendon.

Activities involving kicking, jumping, or explosive movements rely on quick and forceful contraction of the quadriceps muscle for power. These activities are most common in sports involving jumping. However, patellar tendonitis can occur in any activity that involves contraction of the quadriceps, including running, biking, skiing, or climbing.

Jumper’s Knee pain may decrease with rest and ice, but sometimes that simply isn’t enough. One of the most effective treatments for Jumper’s Knee is Active Release Technique (ART®). This, in combination with specific resistance exercises and chiropractic adjustments, can help restore full strength.

Rotator Cuff/Shoulder Sprains/Strains

Thu, 14 May 2026 20:05:55 GMT

The shoulder is a very mobile joint. This mobility comes at the expense of shoulder stability. A small injury in one of the shoulder tendons or muscles can progress to other muscle areas becoming irritated due to compensation patterns. A very common symptom of a rotator cuff injury is the inability to lift the arm out to the side, pain when putting on a coat, or pain when sleeping on that side at night. Some people experience pain radiating down the arm towards the elbow or even hand.

Traumatic injuries to the rotator cuff can occur with falling on to an outstretched arm. Repetitive activities can also cause damage to the rotator cuff tendons. Over time, the tendons wear faster than the body can repair them and a micro-tear can develop within the tendons. Patients will often have complaints of shoulder pain prior to developing a complete rotator cuff tear.

Shoulder mobilization, soft tissue release on the rotator cuff muscles, mid back and neck treatment are some of the treatment modalities Dr. Watson or Dr. Barlot will incorporate to help improve motion to the shoulder joint. ART® is used to help restore normal length and elasticity to the muscles, ligaments and tendons. It can also help break down scar tissue and adhesions in and around the joint and associated soft tissues. Once the shoulder function has improved, shoulder strengthening exercises are usually prescribed to help keep the area functioning properly.

IT Band Syndrome (Runner’s Knee)

Thu, 14 May 2026 20:04:37 GMT

Iliotibial Band Syndrome (or ITBS) is also sometimes referred to as “Runner’s Knee” as running for long periods of time is the most common cause. The IT band is a fibrous ligament, extending from the pelvis to the lower leg on the outside of the leg. When this ligament becomes tight, it shortens and can begin to rub against the lower portion of the femur, or thigh bone. This friction often leads to inflammation and irritation, with resulting aches and pain.

Common symptoms of ITBS include: pain during flexion or extension of the knee (walking/running); pain on the outside of the knee with gradual onset; trigger points along the outside of the leg and into the glute; and pain that worsens when running or walking downhill. Weak muscles such as hip abductors or gluteus medius can also put strain on the IT band.

Chiropractic treatment utilizes specific adjustments to correct underlying biomechanical issues as well as remove pressure on nerves. The restoration of nerve flow is necessary in the healing process of any tissue. The quadriceps, IT band, and hamstring usually respond quickly with ART® treatment which is effective in removing built-up scar tissue that interferes with proper muscle function. The hip flexors and pelvic stabilizers (deeper, postural muscles) also contribute to ITBS and may be treated as well, even if they are not symptomatic.

Corrective exercises and stretching are all part of the process that will determine the success of ART® treatments and prevention of future injuries.

Headaches and Migraines

Thu, 14 May 2026 20:02:18 GMT

Most Canadians will suffer from at least one headache in their lifetime. The reason for a headache can differ from one individual to another. There are also several types of headaches, including: migraine, cervicogenic (caused by the neck), tension-type, sinus, and cluster.

Common migraines are found more often in women than men, and usually start in young adulthood. Migraine symptoms include a pulsing headache that can be severe enough to hamper daily activities. They are often associated with nausea and vomiting, as well as sensitivity to light or noise.

Classic migraines are less common, and are often preceded by visual symptoms such as flashing lights (or auras), and a blind spot or decreased vision. Once these temporary symptoms disappear, the pulsing headache that results can be disabling and last from hours to days.

Chiropractors can assess, diagnose and effectively treat most types of headaches. Chiropractic treatment may decrease the intensity and frequency of migraines in many cases, especially common migraines.

Our chiropractors can also provide relief from migraine and headache after-effects such as restricted neck movement, muscle tension in the upper back and shoulders, as well as addressing any postural issues to help reduce the occurrence of both migraine and tension headaches.

More Than Backs!

Thu, 14 May 2026 19:59:06 GMT

Chiropractors are experts in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions of the entire musculoskeletal system – the body’s bones, muscles, cartilage, tendons, joints and connective tissue.

Dr. Watson and Dr. Barlot may use a combination of techniques in their treatments. They often include chiropractic adjustments to correct joint dysfunction and/or Active Release Technique (ART®) to remove scar tissue adhesions. This approach is very effective in treating the following conditions: