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Poor circulation is a health problem that affects many people and can lead to complications if left untreated. In this article, we'll look at the symptoms of poor circulation, how to improve blood flow and the treatments available, including shockwave therapy, offered by the PhysioBalance clinic.

Symptoms of poor circulation

Poor circulation manifests itself through various symptoms, including :

• Sensation of cold and numbness in extremities (hands, feet)
• Muscle pain and cramps
• Varicose veins and visible veins
• Swelling of legs and ankles
• Fatigue and weakness
• Dry skin and color changes
• Memory and concentration problems

How to improve blood circulation

There are several ways to improve blood circulation:

• Adopt a balanced diet: give priority to fruit, vegetables, fish and wholegrain cereals.
• Regular physical activity: walking, cycling, swimming, yoga, etc.
• Elevate your legs when lying down to facilitate venous return.
• Avoid crossing your legs when sitting.
• Stop smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
• Drink enough water to promote hydration and blood circulation.
• Wear comfortable, appropriate clothing and footwear.

Treatments for poor circulation

There are various treatments for poor circulation, depending on the severity and cause of the problem. It is always advisable to consult a professional.

The most common treatments include :

• Medications: anticoagulants, anti-inflammatories, vasodilators, etc.
• Surgery: to remove damaged veins or unblock arteries.
• Compression: compression stockings or elastic bands to reduce swelling and improve blood circulation.
• Shockwave therapy: non-invasive treatment using acoustic waves to stimulate blood circulation and promote tissue healing.
• Massage therapy: Massage therapy can help stimulate blood circulation and reduce the pain and swelling associated with poor circulation. Massages can also help relieve stress, which can be a contributing factor to poor circulation.

Shockwave at PhysioBalance

PhysioBalance Clinic offers shockwave therapy to treat poor blood circulation. This non-invasive method uses high-energy acoustic waves to stimulate blood circulation and promote the regeneration of damaged tissue. It offers several advantages:

• Fast, effective treatment: sessions generally last between 15 and 30 minutes, and patients often feel an improvement right from the first session. 2. Low risk of side effects: shockwave therapy is generally well tolerated, with little risk of side effects.
• Suitable for a variety of conditions: in addition to treating poor circulation, shockwave therapy is also used to treat tendonitis, muscle pain, calcifications and more.
• No recovery time: unlike surgery, there is no recovery time required after a shockwave therapy session.

Prevents poor circulation

To prevent poor circulation, it's essential to take care of your health and adopt healthy lifestyle habits. Here are some additional tips for maintaining good blood circulation and avoiding problems associated with poor circulation:

• Manage stress: Learn to manage stress through relaxation techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, yoga or a relaxing hobby.
• Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can put additional strain on the circulatory system. Eat a balanced diet and exercise regularly to maintain a healthy weight.
• Foot care: Poor circulation can lead to foot problems. Wash them daily, dry them thoroughly and use a moisturizing cream to prevent skin problems. Wear comfortable socks and shoes adapted to the shape of your feet.
• Controlling chronic diseases: If you suffer from diabetes, high blood pressure or other chronic diseases, it's important to control them with the help of your doctor. Good medical care can prevent or delay complications linked to poor circulation.

When should you see a doctor?

If you experience persistent or worsening symptoms of poor circulation, it's important to consult a doctor. He or she will be able to assess your state of health and determine the cause of the problem. Depending on the diagnosis, he or she can direct you towards a suitable treatment, such as the shockwave therapy offered by Clinique PhysioBalance.

Conclusion

Poor circulation is a health problem that can lead to complications if left untreated. It's important to be aware of the symptoms and take the necessary steps to improve blood circulation. 

Among the treatments available, shockwave therapy offered by the PhysioBalance clinic offers a non-invasive and effective solution for treating poor blood circulation and promoting the healing of damaged tissue.

In short, if you suffer from poor circulation, don't hesitate to consult a healthcare professional to determine the cause of the problem and discuss treatment options tailored to your situation. 

Shockwave therapy could be a solution to consider to improve your quality of life and reduce the symptoms associated with poor blood circulation.

If you're looking for an acupuncturist in Montreal, Clinique Physiobalance is the place to find trained and experienced acupuncture professionals in Montreal. The clinic offers acupuncture treatments in Montreal to help your body's various systems return to full function, delivered by skilled acupuncturists in Montreal. What's more, the clinic is a member of the Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec, which guarantees that all treatments by acupuncturists in Montreal are carried out to the highest quality standards. You can be sure of receiving quality, effective care when you choose Clinique Physiobalance and its Montreal acupuncturists for your acupuncture needs.

Acupuncture treatments in Montreal at Clinique Physiobalance

Acupuncture treatmentsin Montreal at Clinique Physiobalance begin with a thorough evaluation. The acupuncturist will then insert fine sterile needles and leave them to work for up to 40 minutes, depending on the treatment. Treatments are carried out in accordance with the ancient techniques of acupuncture, ensuring that patients receive the highest quality treatment.

The Montreal acupuncture clinic uses state-of-the-art technology to support its treatments. Acupuncturists also undergo ongoing training to ensure that patients benefit from the latest techniques and best practices in acupuncture treatment. All this ensures that patients benefit from effective, pain-free treatments that meet the highest quality standards.

The benefits of acupuncture at Clinique Physiobalance are many and varied. First and foremost, acupuncture is a natural method of treatment that does not require the use of drugs or chemicals. This means that patients who choose acupuncture as their treatment benefit from a natural way of restoring their health and well-being.

What's more, acupuncture is a non-invasive treatment performed with fine, sterile needles by an experienced Montreal acupuncturist . Unlike other forms of medical treatment, acupuncture does not involve the use of complex machinery or heavy equipment. The needles used for acupuncture are very fine and their insertion is virtually painless. This means that patients can enjoy comfortable, pain-free treatment from a professional acupuncturist in Montreal.

One of the great advantages of acupuncture is that it can help treat a wide variety of health problems. Acupuncture is often used to treat chronic pain, sleep disorders, digestive problems, menstrual disorders, emotional disorders and many other health problems. In addition, acupuncture in Montreal can help boost the immune system, reduce stress and improve blood circulation.

Acupuncture is also a very safe treatment. The needles used for acupuncture are sterile and single-use, which means there is no risk of infection or transmission of disease from one patient to another. What's more, acupuncture is a non-invasive treatment that carries no risk of complications associated with surgery or other forms of medical treatment.

Finally, acupuncture is a form of treatment that can be used in combination with other forms of medical treatment. Montreal acupuncturists at Clinique Physiobalance often work in collaboration with other health professionals, such as physicians, physiotherapists and chiropractors. This enables patients to benefit from holistic, personalized treatment that can address their specific health needs.

Acupuncture in Montreal at Clinique Physiobalance offers many benefits to patients. It is a natural, non-invasive and safe treatment that can help treat a wide variety of health problems. The clinic's Montreal acupuncturists are fully trained and experienced, and work in collaboration with other healthcare professionals to provide quality care to their patients. If you're looking for effective, pain-free treatment that meets the highest quality standards, acupuncture in Montreal at Clinique Physiobalance by a professional acupuncturist in Montreal could be the solution you need.

Clinique Physiobalance: a warm welcome and personalized service

Clinique Physiobalance is a place where you can find a warm welcome and personalized service from a professional Montreal acupuncturist. In addition to offering quality acupuncture treatments in Montreal, Clinique Physiobalance offers a warm welcome and personalized service to its patients. The multidisciplinary team working in synergy, including acupuncturists in Montreal, is fully trained and experienced in providing quality care to its patients. All this ensures that patients feel comfortable and safe when receiving acupuncture treatments at the clinic from skilled Montreal acupuncturists.

L'Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec: a guarantee of quality

Clinique Physiobalance is a member of the Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec, which guarantees that all treatments are carried out to the highest quality standards. The mission of the Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec is to protect the public by ensuring that acupuncturists are properly trained and adhere to the highest standards of acupuncture practice. As a member of the Order, Clinique Physiobalance is committed to upholding these standards and offering quality treatments to its patients.

The best acupuncturist in Montreal

If you're looking for the best acupuncturist in Montreal, Clinique Physiobalance is the place to find trained and experienced professionals. The clinic's acupuncturists are in continuous training to ensure that patients benefit from the latest techniques and best practices in acupuncture treatment. What's more, the clinic is a member of the Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec, ensuring that all treatments are carried out to the highest quality standards.

How to choose an acupuncturist in Montreal

When choosing an acupuncturist in Montreal , it's important to ensure that the practitioner is properly trained and meets the highest quality standards. You can check whether an acupuncturist is a member of the Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec to ensure that he or she meets these standards. In addition, you can ask for references or read online reviews to learn more about other patients' experiences with the acupuncturist.

If you're looking for an acupuncturist in Montreal, Clinique Physiobalance is the place to find trained and experienced professionals. The clinic offers treatments by an acupuncturist in Montreal to help your body's various systems return to full function. What's more, the clinic is a member of the Ordre des acupuncteurs du Québec, which guarantees that all treatments are carried out to the highest quality standards. 

The clinic's acupuncturists undergo continuous training to ensure that patients benefit from the latest techniques and best practices in acupuncture treatment. All this ensures that patients receive effective, pain-free treatment to the highest quality standards.

Joint pain is pain that affects the joints of the human body, including the hands, knees, hips, shoulders and elbows. This pain can be caused by many factors, such as age, normal wear and tear, disease or injury. In this article, we'll explore the causes, symptoms and treatments.

Causes of joint pain

Joint pain can be caused by many factors, including normal age-related wear and tear, overuse, injury, inflammatory diseases, arthritis and other health conditions. Arthritis is one of the main causes, which can be caused by normal wear and tear, inflammation or infection.

Symptoms of joint pain

Symptoms of joint pain can vary depending on the cause and severity of the pain. Common symptoms of joint pain include soreness, stiffness, fatigue, redness and swelling around the affected joint. Patients may also experience limited mobility and functionality of the affected joint.

Treatment of joint pain

Treatment for joint pain can vary depending on the cause and severity of the pain. Common treatment options include over-the-counter analgesics, physical therapy, kinesiology and surgery. Over-the-counter analgesics can help relieve pain and inflammation, but do not treat the underlying cause of joint pain.

Physical therapy and kinesiology are non-invasive treatment options. Patients can visit a physiotherapy clinic in Quebec to receive personalized treatment for their joint pain. Treatments can include stretching and strengthening exercises, massage and manual therapies to help improve mobility and functionality of the affected joint.

Kinesiology in Quebec is also a treatment option. Kinesiologists are health professionals who work with patients to improve their health and well-being using exercise and fitness programs. Kinesiologists can help design exercise programs tailored to the patient's individual needs to help relieve joint pain and improve the functionality of the affected joint.

Hand joint pain

Joint pain in the hand can be caused by arthritis, overuse or injury. Common symptoms include pain, stiffness, weakness and limited mobility of the fingers and hand. Treatment can include over-the-counter painkillers, physical therapy and kinesiology exercises, as well as orthotics or splints to support the hand and reduce pain.

Physical therapy for hand joint pain can include exercises to improve finger and wrist strength and flexibility, as well as massage techniques to reduce pain and muscle tension. Kinesiologists can also work with patients with hand joint pain to design exercise programs that help improve finger and wrist strength, dexterity and coordination.

Physiotherapy clinic in Quebec

Physiotherapy clinics in Quebec are specialized health care centers that offer a range of services to treat joint pain. Physiotherapists work closely with patients to design personalized treatment programs that help relieve pain and improve mobility and functionality of affected joints.

Treatments available at physiotherapy clinics in Quebec can include physical therapy exercises, massage techniques, manual therapy, stretching and strengthening exercises. Physiotherapists can also help patients develop pain management plans, as well as provide advice on posture and injury prevention.

Kinesiology in Quebec

Kinesiology in Quebec is a growing health profession that focuses on promoting health and well-being through exercise and fitness. Kinesiologists work with patients suffering from joint pain to design exercise programs tailored to their individual needs.

Exercise programs designed by kinesiologists for joint pain can include muscle strengthening, stretching and flexibility exercises, as well as cardiovascular conditioning. Kinesiologists can also provide advice on diet and lifestyle to help patients maintain good health.

In conclusion, joint pain is a common pain that can be caused by many factors. Symptoms can vary depending on the cause and severity of the pain. Treatment options for joint pain include over-the-counter analgesics, physical therapy, kinesiology and surgery. Patients can visit a physiotherapy clinic in Quebec to receive personalized treatment for their joint pain, or work with a kinesiologist to design an exercise program tailored to their individual needs. Whichever treatment option is chosen, it's important to consult a qualified healthcare professional.

If you suffer from joint pain and live in Montreal, Quebec, we invite you to book an appointment at Clinique Physiobalance today. Our team of qualified healthcare professionals is here to help you relieve your joint pain and improve your quality of life. We offer a full range of services, from physiotherapy and kinesiology to acupuncture and other complementary treatments. Contact us today to find out more about how we can help you treat.

Wrist pain is one of the most common workplace ailments. In fact, according to studies, its prevalence can be as high as 6% in the general population. So it's essential to understand its symptoms, its causes and how to get rid of wrist pain . With this in mind, this article will provide you with all the information you need to know about wrist pain .

What exactly is wrist pain ?

Although it may seem obvious, it's necessary to define what exactly wrist pain is, as it's often confused with general arm or forearm pain. The wrist is the joint that connects the hand to the arm, and is made up of eight small bones and two bones that also belong to the forearm: the radius and ulna. 

It is also involved in activities such as writing, using a computer or telephone, and lifting objects. Thus, wrist pain is discomfort that occurs in this area, which can be minor or can be really intense pain accompanied by swelling and difficulty in moving the hand. 

Symptoms of wrist pain

When it comes to symptoms of external wrist pain , it's worth noting that these vary depending on the cause, but there are several common symptoms that can help identify the cause and appropriate treatment. 

The first and most obvious symptom is searing pain in the wrist. Secondly, the person may have difficulty grasping objects or performing other activities that involve closing and opening the hand; in some cases, these actions may accentuate the pain. 

Another common symptom is swelling of the area or redness, and the area may feel warm. However, if the person feels excessive heat, this may indicate an infection and they should seek medical attention immediately.

Causes of wrist pain

There are many reasons why a person may suffer from wrist pain, and different symptoms for each. We'll look at the characteristics of the most common causes below. 

1. Tendonitis

Tendonitis is one of the most common causes of chronic wrist pain. Tendonitis is characterized by swelling of the tendons in this area. In fact, it's often the cause of wrist pain on the side of the little finger, as it often spreads to the fingers, particularly the thumb and little finger. 

Tendonitis can occur in any part of the body, but is most common in the wrist due to its intensive daily use. In general, symptoms can be reduced or eliminated by rest, anti-inflammatory medication or physiotherapy, but in more severe cases, surgery may be required. 

2. Carpal tunnel syndrome

Another common cause of wrist pain is carpal tunnel syndrome. This occurs when the median nerve, which runs through the forearm, becomes inflamed, causing pressure on the wrist and thus external wrist pain . Carpal tunnel pain is often aggravated by repetitive movements. Other symptoms include tingling, wrist pain on the side of the little finger and weakness in the affected hand. Fortunately, treatment is straightforward, and wrist pain is often reduced by splinting, anti-inflammatory medication or physiotherapy.

3. Ganglion

Ganglions or ganglion cysts are non-cancerous lumps that develop on the wrist, although they can also appear on the ankle and foot. These lumps are fluid-filled and oval in shape, but vary in size from one individual to another. They may not cause wrist pain but simply discomfort and difficulty in moving, or they may cause great pain by pressing on the nerves and numbing the hand. In itself, it is not dangerous, however, if the patient wishes to remove the ganglion, they should consult a specialist surgeon, as, if removed incorrectly, hand mobility may be lost. 

4. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease that occurs when bone cartilage wears away, causing bones to rub against each other and leading to pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints. It usually affects the wrist, causing pain. Other symptoms include weakness and difficulty performing tasks with the hands. 

It's a chronic condition, so there's no cure, but over time a number of treatment strategies have been developed to reduce pain and restore movement. These include anti-inflammatory medication, physiotherapy to improve strength, and osteopathic treatment to increase range of motion.  

5. The drop

Gout is another form of arthritis, causing inflammation and pain in the joints. Although it most often affects the feet, it can also affect the wrists and hands. It is caused by an excess of uric acid in the blood, which produces crystals in the joints. If your wrist pain is caused by gout, it will appear suddenly and be sharp. 

For treatment, doctors prescribe medication to reduce uric acid levels in the blood and anti-inflammatory drugs. In addition, depending on the patient, it may be advisable to avoid alcohol and high-sugar drinks to prevent gout attacks. 

6. Septic arthritis

Septic arthritis is a type of joint infection that occurs when bacteria or other micro-organisms enter a joint and cause infection. It is quite common in the wrist, although it can also frequently occur in the knee. The result is inflammation, wrist pain, redness, fever, chills and fatigue. 

Unlike the other causes listed here, this one is really serious and requires immediate attention. In case of suspicion, it's best to go to hospital. It generally occurs at address in people with weakened immune systems, who have suffered injuries or who have recently undergone surgery. 

As you may have noticed, most causes of wrist pain can be treated with physiotherapy. If you're in Montreal, we recommend a consultation and treatment at Clinique Physiobalance.

According to numerous studies, low back pain is the most common musculoskeletal disorder in the world. At some point in their lives, people are likely to suffer from low back pain. That's why this article explains exactly what low back pain is , what its symptoms are and how to treat them, with particular reference to advances in physiotherapy. 

Definition of low back pain

First of all, the definition of low back pain , also known as lumbago, needs to be clear. The lumbar region, or lower back, contains five lumbar vertebrae and the sacrum. The lower back supports the body's weight and makes it possible to walk or bend. 

 Low back pain therefore refers to swelling in this muscular area, and can be the result of injury to ligaments, discs or joints. Even minor inflammation can cause intense pain. However, lower back pain presents itself differently from one individual to another, and can manifest itself as sudden, sharp pain, or as permanent pain, better known as chronic lower back pain.

Symptoms of lumbago

The symptoms of low back pain are easy to identify, but attention is needed to ensure that you get the right medical help and avoid it developing into chronic low back pain. The symptoms of low back pain are listed below.

First of all, you'll feel pain in your lower back, i.e. between the muscles that connect your buttocks to your back. The pain may be progressive, feel like a stab wound, occur only during a specific activity, such as bending forward, or simply be permanent. On the other hand, you may find relief by lying down on a flat surface.

Secondly, and in many cases, there is a strong possibility that the pain will extend to the buttocks and legs. It's also common to have difficulty moving, caused by the same pain. In addition, you may notice a sensation of stiffness.

Another common symptom is muscle spasm, during which the patient experiences a contraction of the lower back muscles and a surge of pain.

When it comes to chronic low back pain , a common symptom is difficulty in maintaining good posture, so those affected can often be seen in a stooped position.

Causes and frequency of low back pain

As we've already established, low back pain is an extremely common condition, which anyone can suffer from at some point in their lives. However, there are a number of causes and risk factors that significantly increase the likelihood of suffering from low back pain.

One of the risk factors is age. People over thirty are more likely to suffer back pain, as discs and ligaments wear out over time.

On the other hand, there's obesity, which puts greater pressure on the discs and can lead to bulging. A sedentary lifestyle, for example for people with office jobs, can also be an indicator of low back pain . However, and although it may seem contradictory, jobs that require constant heavy lifting also increase the risk of low back pain.

Finally, risk factors include certain diseases such as scoliosis, osteoarthritis and other skeletomuscular conditions, as well as stress or fatigue.

Over the years, the following causes have been identified: sprains or injuries to the muscles and ligaments of the back, generally due to improper bending or lifting of heavy objects, or even sneezing; disc disorders, for example if one of them protrudes and presses on a nerve, or due to age and wear; diseases affecting bone structure such as arthritis, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis and, mainly, scoliosis. 

Treatment of low back pain

As this is a common condition, there are several methods of treating low back pain . It all depends on the severity of the injury and its cause. 

Treatment of back pain is generally straightforward and can be carried out at home. When the causes are not serious and the pain is manageable, it can improve with rest and hot and cold treatment: cold with ice to reduce swelling and heat with hot water towels to relieve pain. 

Many people also take over-the-counter painkillers and anti-inflammatories. If the pain is severe, you may need to consult a healthcare professional to be prescribed a more powerful medication for back pain.

However, when pain persists and chronic low back pain is diagnosed, the most common treatment for low back pain is physiotherapy. Physiotherapy, whether through massage or physical therapy, helps to strengthen muscles, prevent wear and tear, improve flexibility and thus get to the root of the symptom. On the other hand, certain massages performed by professional physiotherapists can improve posture and relieve pain. 

Finally, although surgery is available for lower back pain, these invasive procedures are only performed when the problem is structural and directly affects the spine. It can also be used to treat its causes, such as scoliosis. 

If you're in Montreal, Canada, and suffer from low back pain, you can visit Clinique Physiobalance where you'll find the best professionals for consultation, physiotherapy,osteopathy or massage therapy, all treatments proven to relieve low back pain.

According to Brain Injury Canada, approximately 200,000 people suffer concussions every year. In fact, it's suspected that the figure could be much higher, as many people are unaware of the symptoms of a concussion and therefore don't seek medical attention. 

This article therefore deals with the symptoms of a concussion, how to identify them and how to treat them.

Definition of concussion

A concussion is a relatively common traumatic brain injury and, if treated, is not serious. This injury is temporary and affects brain function. 

It can be caused by a direct blow to the head, or by rapid movement, as in the case of whiplash. So, the definition of concussion is literally the displacement of the brain inside the head, resulting in disorientation. 

The symptoms of a concussion can vary depending on the impact suffered by the individual, which is why, as has already been established, many people don't realize they've suffered a concussion and assume they're simply disoriented by the incident.

In principle, they are not serious. However, if not properly treated, they can worsen symptoms. What's more, if a person suffers several concussions, they are more likely to suffer from illnesses such as Parkinson's disease or depression.

Symptoms of a concussion

With this in mind, it's essential to get concussion treatment to avoid long-term problems. So here are the signs of concussion to look out for, especially after an accident involving the head.

1. Headaches

 Headache is often the first sign of concussion that people notice. When it comes to concussion, the pain can occur hours or even days after the blow or movement in question, which is why some people mistake it for simple discomfort. However, it should be noted that in the case of a concussion, the pain is located in the front of the head. 

Similarly, when it comes to concussion symptoms , the headache doesn't change when standing up and is sudden. 

This headache can be accompanied by dizziness and even vomiting, depending on the level of pain.

2. Vision disorders

This is one of the most important symptoms of a concussion, and one that should alert everyone. Vision problems can take the form of blurred images, double vision or the appearance of lights.

3. Confusion

As the brain moves, one of the most common concussion symptoms is disorientation and confusion. 

In fact, contrary to popular belief, this sign of concussion is much more common than fainting. The person may forget what he or she was doing, or be confused about events.

4. Sensitivity to light and sound

After a concussion, two of the most frequently reported concussion symptoms are sensitivity to light and noise. 

This is due to the "blow" to the brain and the confusion that accompanies it. That's why we recommend resting in the dark as part of concussion treatment .

Symptoms of a severe concussion

Having mentioned the most common signs of a concussion, it's time to talk about the symptoms of a serious concussion. Whatever the signs, you should always consult a doctor to determine the severity of the injury after a shock or traumatic movement to the head. 

However, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, certain symptoms of a severe concussion should be reported to medical professionals. 

First of all, it's very rare to lose consciousness following a simple concussion. Therefore, if the person loses consciousness, he or she should be taken immediately to the emergency room.

Difficulty speaking or answering simple questions are also worrying signs of concussion. 

In addition, a larger-than-life pupil or epileptic seizures indicate that the concussion was much more serious than it first appears.

Duration of a concussion

Once the doctor has verified the condition of the brain injury, the duration of a concussion and its symptoms is relatively short. Most symptoms disappear within a week or two, with rest and avoidance of physical activities that could lead to a second injury.

 When it comes to concussion treatment, the first few days are crucial, and activities requiring concentration, bright lights and loud noises should be avoided. 

 It is also advisable to sleep well during the recovery period. Once the symptoms of a concussion have disappeared, daily activities can be resumed, but the treating physician's recommendations must always be taken into account. 

Indeed, depending on the severity or nature of the blow that caused the concussion, as well as the person's age, recovery needs may be different. For example, a concussion in a child may affect behavior and symptoms differently because the brain is still developing. 

Symptoms of concussion can last more than two weeks. However, if they persist for more than two months, or if they worsen over time, it is necessary to consult a doctor and check the condition of the brain. Other treatments can also be tried, for example, physiotherapy has proved to be an effective method of reducing concussion symptoms.

For more information on health and physiotherapy, please visit our blog. To find out more about our services, including concussion treatment options, you can visit the official Physiobalance website.

Muscle spasm is a frequent and painful condition, which can be a sign of a number of ailments. In fact, the causes of muscle spasm can be so varied that, according to Bruno Bordoni, Scientific Director of the CRESO School of Osteopathy, there are no exact worldwide statistics, as current studies take into account factors such as climate, previous physical activity and age, among others. 

With this in mind, this article looks at the most common causes of muscle spasm, how to identify them and the appropriate treatment for each.  

What is a muscle spasm?

A muscle spasm is a sudden involuntary contraction of a group of muscles, a single muscle or individual muscle fibers. When the muscle in question is palpated, a knot is felt, and the muscle contraction can last from a few seconds to several minutes. 

In general, although muscle contraction can occur in any part of the body, it frequently occurs in the limbs and abdomen.

Furthermore, a muscle spasm can occur in people of any age and gender, and most causes of muscle spasm do not involve serious conditions. Therefore, even if it presents itself as a severe muscle spasm, it is unlikely to impact an individual's health.

It's also important not to confuse a muscle spasm with spasticity, which refers to a chronic condition causing muscle stiffness and difficulty in movement. In the case of spasticity, physiotherapy has shown good results in reducing painful symptoms. Finally, although spasticity can be caused by constant muscle contractions, it is not the same condition and may have neurological origins.

Cause of muscle spasm

As has been established, there are several reasons why muscle contractions occur. In most cases, they are associated with the individual's physical activity. We list some of these causes below. 

1. Lack of proper stretching

During any type of exercise, muscles contract and expand. However, continuous movement can lead to muscle spasm, as the muscle becomes exhausted.

However, if stretched correctly before an exercise program, it distends muscle fibers so that they can contract and expand easily, preventing muscles from contracting.

2. Muscular fatigue

As with lack of stretching, overuse of muscles can lead to muscle fatigue, the main symptom of which is muscle spasm. 

This often happens to people unaccustomed to exercise who start with an inappropriate routine and end up tiring themselves out, or to high-level athletes who don't take proper breaks. In this case, the best option is rest, although massages administered by a professional physiotherapist can help speed recovery.

3. Dehydration

This is perhaps one of the most common and best-studied causes of muscle spasm. So, when a person is dehydrated and has lost electrolytes, it's very likely that the muscle will contract, causing a severe muscle spasm .

Dehydration can be caused by heat or exercise, as sweating is the culprit in fluid elimination, so it's easy to identify if this is the cause of a muscle spasm. This is why it's common to hear that to relieve a severe muscle spasm, you need to consume water or an electrolyte drink. 

4. Anxiety contractions

It's common to see muscle spasms without any apparent prior physical effort, so it's possible that this is a stress muscle spasm. However, a stress muscle spasm usually occurs in smaller, localized areas of muscle, for example, in the thigh, face, neck and even eyelids.

According to experts, this is because stress hormones create the instinct to flee or fight, which can increase nervous system activity and cause muscle tension.

If the person suspects that he or she is suffering from stress-related muscle spasms, treatment, unlike for other causes, will not focus on physiotherapy but on psychotherapy and the pursuit of relaxation methods such as meditation or yoga. 

5. Writer's cramp

Focal hand dystonia, or more commonly known as writer's cramp, is a condition characterized mainly by the presence of a muscle spasm in the hands. It occurs in adults and the muscular contraction affects the sections used for writing. 

However, it presents other symptoms such as hand stiffness or a tendency to grip the pencil too tightly when writing. It is generally caused by constant writing, especially if not done with correct posture. 

It's also easy to identify, as symptoms only manifest themselves in the dominant hand and, as we've already mentioned, it affects adults aged from around thirty to sixty.

In terms of treatment, doctors recommend physiotherapy or occupational therapy to restore flexibility to the hand. It is also advisable to reduce stress levels. 

6. Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS)

Finally, while most muscle spasms are not caused by a serious condition and can be safely treated at home, there are more complex conditions whose symptoms include muscle contractions. 

It should be noted, however, that this is an extremely rare genetic disorder. Muscle spasms in this condition occur because it is a degenerative neuromuscular disease. Motor neurons therefore gradually diminish, affecting muscle behavior.

Finally, we hope you found this article useful. For more interesting information on muscle health and physiotherapy, you can visit our blog. If you're interested in physiotherapy in the Montreal area, you can find out more about our services here. 

Without a doubt, an expert physio montreal is a professional qualified to treat people with limited movement due to physical injury, recent injury, chronic pain in the extremities or due to old age. Naturally, treatment includes the application of state-of-the-art techniques and the use of specialized equipment to help improve patients' conditions.

Montreal physio-experts have a vast and complex scope of action, as their work is aimed at detecting a given disease, promoting health and carrying out or imposing rehabilitation or treatment with a view to recovery. They are also qualified to advise on prevention.

To find out a little more about the work of these professionals, it's necessary to know that they treat a wide range of problems, including musculoskeletal problems linked to bones, joints and tissues; neuromuscular problems linked to the brain and nervous system; and cardiovascular problems for those suffering from lung and heart problems.

Thanks to expert physio montreal, we are able to care for a wide range of patients, including the elderly, those with severe spinal or joint injuries, inmates in intensive care and those recovering from falls, Parkinson's disease and cerebral palsy.

Expert physio Montréal is one of the best at what they do, which is why they've earned a worldwide reputation. Here are some of the strategies they use to ensure patients' health and quality of life:

Consultation

Montreal's physio experts generally welcome people referred by a family physician or other specialist, with the intention of treating a specific problem. In this regard, the professional must apply the necessary strategies to detect and treat a problem.

Treatments

After the first treatment, the patient's next visits to a consultation will necessarily undergo the treatment required for his or her condition. For this, you need to use the techniques you've learned and high-tech equipment to help you recover.

Rehabilitation

It is also essential to design a rigorous rehabilitation plan to help the patient improve mobility and relieve pain. This is undoubtedly part of the job of the physio expert in Montreal.

Relief

Although a physiotherapist is authorized to treat patients with injuries, he or she often cannot guarantee their full recovery due to its extent. In this particular case, you should help the pain or suffering have less impact on your life.