Blog

By: Dr. Kyle Etwaroo, Chiropractor

Although the majority of my patients deal with mechanical based pain, stemming for either muscles, ligaments or joints, there are times when examination requires the study of the nervous system and its function peripherally. Neuropathies are problems with the peripheral nerves (nerves outside the spinal cord) in your body, which can lead to decreased sensation, numbness, vibration, and even loss of strength in certain places. Some neuropathies are the result of muscles or structures in the body entrapping a nerve leading to neuropathic symptoms, but it can also be due to systemic issues that have been present for quite some time. Most people will know that long standing diabetes that remains unmanaged can lead to neuropathies in patients, especially into the hands and feet. Another condition that can go generally undiagnosed but relatable in both neuropathies and diabetes is hypothyroidism. Some symptoms of hypothyroidism are:

• Lethargy, fatigue, sleepiness
• Muscle stiffness
• Cold intolerance
• Weight gain (due to decreased metabolic rate)
• hair thinning
• Decreased pulse and high blood pressure
• Edema in the heart and lower extremities

The last point is of importance. The edema build up in extremities such as the hands and feet is often the result of neuropathies in this condition, where the fluid causes pressure build up on the nerves leading in neuropathic symptoms. Most studies have shown a mild correlation with hypothyroid patients and the neuropathic symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, but it is not limited to the arms and wrist if expressed. Many of these symptoms listed above are also be found in patients with long standing diabetes like the weight gain and edema, which can prove problematic in determining what condition could be attributing to the neuropathy. Therefore in all clinical scenarios with neuropathic pain, there needs to be a firm understanding on the cause of the symptoms, whether it be mechanical or systemic in nature in order to refer to the proper practitioner for treatment. While diabetes can likely be the culprit in systemic cases, there’s no harm in asking a GP to Check your thyroid hormone levels, especially if you’re are not responding to conservative management. Even if you suspect hypothyroid symptoms, neuropathic problems often don’t appear in subclinical cases (where the hormone is just above average), therefore coming to follow up and taking proper physicals are always of importance in order to keep you in good health.

References:

DynaMed Database
Shiri, R 2014- Hypothyroidism and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: A Meta-Analysis
Jallilzadeh et al. 2006- Peripheral Nerve Function in Subclinical Hypothyroidism: A Case-Control Study

Fatigue. Irritability. Oversleeping. Weight gain. Poor concentration. Ever notice any of these symptoms over the Autumn and Winter months? There's a chance you might be struggling with Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Did you know that Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is categorized as a type of depression linked to the changes in seasons, which is particularly more prevalent during the fall and winter months? It's been estimated that between 2-3% of Canadians will experience SAD at some point in their lifetime.

Should you notice any of these changes in your lifestyle however, take comfort in knowing that there are measures you can take to help you beat feeling "the winter blues".

Consider these options:

• Get outside: Get as much sunlight as possible! Go for a 15 minute walk and take advantage of the crisp, fresh air before winter arrives. A walk outdoors can definitely help in lifting up your spirits and clear your head. Consider setting a footstep goal everyday, and track your progress. This should help encourage you to get consciously moving actively.
• Vitamin D: To extend the getting outside component, you want to make sure that you expose some of your skin (when it's not too cold!) to direct sunlight for a nice dose of vitamin D. Too cold for this? Consider taking an oral supplement to make sure your vitamin D stores aren't completely depleted through these months.
• Eat better: The food you eat has a direct correlation between how your body and your mind feels. Serve your meals with a healthy side dish, using produce that are in season, like beets, brussels sprouts, squash and leafy greens. Focus on warm, cooked foods (think soups, stews, bone broths - anything you can throw in the slow cooker) and avoid cold, raw foods which can be harder to digest which can take a hit on your immune system.
• Journal: Writing can be cathartic process. Expressing your thoughts through writing creates an emotional release, which helps relieve anxiety. The act of writing allows you to process information, reating self-awareness which allows you to reflect on, and evaluate your feelings. It's also a great way to document your mind frame and habits.
• Boost your immune system: This time of year is when your immune system takes a big hit and you are most vulnerable to illness. Strengthen your immune system by maintaining proper nutrition, bundling up when heading outdoors (especially protecting your "wind gate" aka. neck!) and staying hydrated. If you know you always get sick this time of year, consider a visit with your ND to get recommendations for supplements and botanicals specific for you.
• Seek help: A change in behaviour, sleep pattern, energy level, diet, or general lack of interest in activities you otherwise normally enjoy, may be indicative symptoms of SAD. Speak to your doctor and inquire about the various treatments and resources available to you.

By: Petra Najafee, Registered Psychotherapist

Here’s another simple exercise you can use to manage your stress while you’re at work. Breathe.

Yes, I know, if you’re reading this then you’re breathing. But I am challenging you here to take this a step further. To take a step away from the thought stream that is constantly flowing through your mind, and just focus on your breathing for a few minutes. Chances are, your mind will wander back to your work or your family or whatever it is that is most occupying your thoughts these days. That’s okay. It’s normal. But don’t worry, those things will still be there when you’ve finished this exercise so you don’t need to focus on them right now. When your mind wanders off (as it most likely will), just gently remind yourself to focus on your breathing.

Here’s how it goes:

• Find a comfortable position in your chair. Try to have your feet planted on the floor and your back supported by the chair back. Rest your hands lightly on your thighs, or the arms of your chair (or even on the computer if you want to make it look like you’re working)
• Close your eyes if you’re comfortable doing so, or just maintain a loose gaze so that your eyes are open but your gaze is not focused.
• Next, just notice your breath. You might want to do this by noticing the rise and fall of your belly, or your chest. You might want to do this by noticing the air as it passes in and out through your nostrils. Find what works for you and focus on your breath in that way. Try not to force your breath, just pay attention to it as you breathe naturally.
• Again, when your mind wanders off, just gently remind yourself to focus once again on your breath.

Try this for 3 minutes or 5 minutes or 10 minutes if you can manage it. When you’ve finished, take a moment to notice how you feel. Hopefully you’re feeling just a bit more relaxed and a bit more ready to face the rest of your day.