Compression stockings are specially designed hosiery garments that apply pressure to the legs and feet. They are commonly used to improve blood circulation and manage various medical conditions, particularly those related to venous and lymphatic systems. The pressure exerted by compression stockings is highest at the ankle and gradually decreases as the stockings go up the leg. This gradient pressure helps to facilitate blood flow from the extremities back toward the heart.

Compression stockings come in various levels of pressure, ranging from mild to strong compression. They are typically categorized into different classes based on the amount of pressure they exert, measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). The specific class and pressure level prescribed will depend on the individual’s medical condition and the recommendation of a healthcare professional.

Compression stockings are commonly used for the following purposes:

Varicose Veins: Compression stockings can help manage and alleviate the symptoms of varicose veins.

Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) Prevention: They are often prescribed for individuals at risk of developing blood clots in the deep veins of the legs, especially during long periods of immobility, such as after surgery or during long flights.

Edema: Compression stockings can help reduce swelling in the legs and ankles caused by conditions like chronic venous insufficiency or lymphedema.

Pregnancy: Pregnant women may use compression stockings to manage swelling in the legs and reduce the risk of developing varicose veins.

Post-Surgery: Patients recovering from certain surgeries, particularly those involving the lower extremities, might be prescribed compression stockings to prevent blood clots and promote healthy circulation.

Chronic Venous Insufficiency: This condition occurs when the veins are unable to adequately pump blood back to the heart. Compression stockings can help alleviate the associated discomfort and promote better blood flow.

It’s important to note that compression hosiery should be prescribed by a healthcare professional. They come in different styles, lengths, and pressure levels, and an accurate fit is crucial to ensure their effectiveness and comfort. If you believe you might benefit from compression stockings, consult with a doctor to receive proper guidance and recommendations tailored to your specific needs.

What a nice recognition!  We are tremendously appreciative to GTA Center for including Churchill Physio in their ranking of the best physiotherapy clinics in the GTA.

Here at Churchill Physiotherapy Clinic, we always strive to put patient satisfaction above all else.  Our dedicated team of registered therapists is unwaveringly committed to facilitating patients’ recovery journeys with the utmost personalized attention and care.  We take immense pride in our two decades of dedicated service as a premier physiotherapy clinic. When it comes to restoring your health and vitality after injuries, we stand head and shoulders above the rest.  It is definitely an additional bonus when that recognition comes from our patients and collogues in the field.  Thank you so much!

Back pain affects a significant portion of the population and can have a profound impact on daily life, productivity, and overall well-being. Whether caused by poor posture, muscle strain, or underlying medical conditions, back issues can be debilitating and frustrating. Fortunately, physiotherapy offers effective treatments to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and promote long-term back health. In this article, we will explore some common back issues and discuss how physiotherapy can provide relief and support.

Low Back Pain
Low back pain is one of the most prevalent back issues, affecting people of all ages and occupations. It can be caused by a variety of factors such as muscle strains, herniated discs, poor posture, or degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the management of low back pain, focusing on reducing pain, restoring function, and preventing future episodes. Treatments may include manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, postural correction, and patient education to promote proper body mechanics.

Sciatica
Sciatica refers to the pain that radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve, typically affecting one side of the body. It commonly occurs due to compression or irritation of the nerve roots in the lower spine. Physiotherapy interventions for sciatica aim to reduce pain, improve flexibility, and address any underlying causes. Treatment modalities may include targeted exercises to stretch and strengthen the affected area, manual therapy to alleviate nerve compression, and postural adjustments to alleviate pressure on the nerve.

Herniated Disc
A herniated disc occurs when the soft center of a spinal disc protrudes through a tear in its outer layer. This condition often leads to intense back pain, numbness, and weakness in the affected area. Physiotherapy can help manage herniated discs by employing specific exercises and stretching techniques to strengthen the surrounding muscles and stabilize the spine. Additionally, manual therapy, such as spinal mobilization or traction, can provide pain relief and improve overall spinal alignment.

Scoliosis
Scoliosis is characterized by an abnormal sideways curvature of the spine, which can cause pain, postural issues, and reduced mobility. While physiotherapy cannot cure scoliosis, it can help manage the condition and alleviate associated symptoms. Physiotherapists utilize targeted exercises, stretching, and strengthening techniques to improve muscle balance, increase flexibility, and promote proper alignment. They may also recommend orthotic devices or braces to provide support and reduce spinal curvature progression.

If you’re interested in finding out some more information about scoliosis, the American Association of Neurological Surgeons has lots of great information: https://www.aans.org/Patients/Neurosurgical-Conditions-and-Treatments/Scoliosis

Muscle Strains and Sprains

Muscle strains and sprains in the back often result from sudden movements, heavy lifting, or sports-related activities. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation process by utilizing various techniques such as heat or cold therapy, massage, and gentle exercises to reduce pain, inflammation, and muscle tension. As healing progresses, physiotherapists design individualized exercise programs to rebuild strength, flexibility, and overall function.

Back issues can significantly impact one’s quality of life, causing pain, discomfort, and limitations in daily activities. Physiotherapy offers a non-invasive and holistic approach to treating common back problems, focusing on pain relief, functional improvement, and long-term management. By employing a combination of manual therapy techniques, targeted exercises, various modalities, and patient education, physiotherapists help individuals regain strength, flexibility, and mobility while minimizing the risk of future back issues.

If you are experiencing back pain or any related conditions, consult a qualified physiotherapist to receive personalized care and guidance on your journey to recovery back to your optimal health.  Here, at Churchill Physiotherapy our experienced physiotherapists offer flexible appointment times to accommodate even the busiest schedule.  Click HERE to book your appointment.

What is Electrotherapy?

Electrotherapy is a general term for a variety of electrical stimulation therapies.  The most common of these therapies are TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) and EMS (Electrical Muscle Simulation).  Simply put, electrical currents are used to quiet down the affected nerves to provide pain relief, or to stimulate muscle fibers.

There are two main theories as to why it works.  First, that the stimulation causes your body to release endorphins, your body’s natural pain killers.  The second is that the stimulation stops the receptors in your brain from receiving pain messages.  So, although you may still have the injury, you simply do not sense it and therefore become temporarily pain free.

Does it hurt?

Electrotherapy is completely painless; it gives you a “tingling” sensation.

Is it safe?

Yes.  The amount of electrical current being used is not enough to shock you or harm the skin.  However, patients with cancer, epilepsy, pacemakers, and pregnant woman should avoid electrotherapy.

TENS therapy is used for pain relief and can manage pain associated with:

• Arthritis
• Back Pain
• Neck Pain
• Rheumatism Pain
• Diabetic Neuropathy
• Headache/Migraine
• Sciatica
• Tendinitis, and many more painful conditions

EMS can reduce muscle spasms, strengthen muscles, increase blood circulation, and reduce edema.

Tens and EMS units are covered under your extended heath plan provided you have a doctor’s prescription for a chronic issue.

Vitality Depot. (2018). Manage your pain naturally Understanding Tens & Ems Therapy.