by Rebecca Stewart, RMT

TMJ is short for the Temporomandibular Joint. It is the jaw joint where your mandible(jaw bone) meets and hinges to the skull, allowing movement for us to speak and chew.

When Temporomandibular Joint Dysfunction occurs , the result is jaw pain and clicking. Many people will experience some form of jaw pain in their lifetime. The Cause of TMJ disorder can be trauma (car accident, or a fall) or grinding (at night or due to stress). Many people carry tension and stress in the TMJ, subconsciously we clench and grind during stressful times. Not only is this bad for our teeth, it can result in other symptoms as well. Tension in the surrounding muscles of the TMJ can cause referral pain. Thus creating headaches, neck, jaw, tooth and even ear pain.

How can Massage Therapy help??

BC RMTs are trained to asses and treat TMJ disorder. Using techniques such as Myofascial release, soft tissue manipulation (externally or intraoraly with consent), and joint mobilizations. These techniques will help the patient to restore normal TMJ function, range of motion and optimal soft tissue health, while decreasing jaw pain and associated symptoms.

All six of our Registered Massage Therapists are trained in treating TMJ. Please contact Reception for more information or to book in.   

by Dr Asal Shalviri, Naturopath

Before becoming pregnant, both parents should work to optimize their health. This entails addressing any current health issues and also changing any habits that don't contribute to a healthy pregnancy.

A preconception health care program should be started at a minimum of 4 to 6 months prior to conceptions. Of course this depends on the health history of the individuals involved. Preconception health is as important for men as it is for women.

Preconception Health care can also help to decrease the risk of miscarriage which at present effects 1 in 5 of all conceptions. 

Read the full article here with Dr Shalviri's suggestion for a Naturopathic approach to addressing these common concerns. 

Please contact Reception for more information or to book in.

Article examined and further explained 

by Dr Garret Kusch

1. Myth: Stretching prevents injury.

2. Myth: Stretching nixes soreness. 

3. Myth: Stretching a few days a week is plenty.

4. Myth: Static stretching should come first.

5. Myth: A bit of light cardio is the perfect warm-up...

Click here for all 12 myths and the full article.  

In my free time I can be found at the beach, on the soccer field or on a 

Becca (right) with Flo of Florence and the Machines.

mountain (in the winter).

3 things I couldn't live without are my iPod, my car, my family.

My favorite place travelled is The Cook Islands, in the South Pacific. Most beautiful beaches I've ever seen.

My ultimate dream vacation would be Bali and South East Asia. I have never been to Asia, it is high on my list of to do's.

My favorite comfort food is Pizza, I would eat it every day if I could. 

I like to read I love Biographies. Learning about the lives people have lived, and the things they've accomplished.

Music. You will find the new album IS from (Vancouver band) Hey Ocean! currently playing on my iPod. Look who I recently met!! 

Biggest pet peeve is inconsiderate People, and Croc Shoes ;)

I started a career in massage therapy because I fell into Massage Therapy randomly, but the more I learned the more I knew it was the right career path for me. Being able to help people live with less pain in their lives is a great feeling!!