Community News
Arthritis and Dental Health

September is Arthritis Awareness Month, making it a great time to highlight the importance of dental care for those living with arthritis. Joint pain and stiffness can make brushing and flossing more challenging, leading to plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. Inflammation from arthritis can also increase oral health risks, while poor dental health may worsen overall inflammation. Adaptive tools like electric toothbrushes or floss holders can make daily care easier. Regular dental checkups, professional cleanings, and consistent home habits are essential. Protecting your oral health supports overall wellness and helps manage arthritis-related inflammation. Your smile deserves the best!

Your Comfort, Your Choice

At Bascom Medical, we’ve adjusted the cost of the MonaLisa Touch® Vaginal Laser to align with the price of vaginal estrogen—because your well-being should never be limited by expense. This proven, gentle treatment addresses Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause (GSM), helping maintain comfort, intimacy, and lifelong vaginal health. As women transition through menopause, having options matters. Preventive care can make all the difference in aging with ease and confidence. With our new pricing, the MonaLisa Touch is more attainable than ever—giving women the freedom to choose the care that fits their needs best.
Dr. Alexandra Bascom, MD FRCSC BScH. Urologic Surgeon & Clinical Instructor, Department of Urology. North Island Urology — BascomMedical.com

I Hear You: Why a Hearing Test Matters

Strong relationships thrive on good communication. Here’s why scheduling a hearing test is an act of care—for yourself and those you love. 1) Deepen intimacy by truly hearing shared stories. 2) Be present and make memories at gatherings. 3) Reduce frustration and boost happiness by easing communication struggles. 4) Enjoy conversations without constant repeats. 5) Show love by taking concerns about your hearing seriously. Prioritizing your hearing means nurturing trust, joy, and meaningful connections. Contact us today for a free consultation and hearing test. Because hearing well isn’t just about sound—it’s about staying close to the people who matter.

Community Event

Join us on Saturday, September 20th, at the Native Sons Hall in downtown Courtenay, BC, for The Alchemy of Gathering – a transformative event designed to heal your body, mind, and spirit. Experience live sound healing performances in the Grand Hall and immerse yourself in soothing music. Participate in wellness workshops from 11am to 6pm, focusing on creativity, empowerment, and community. Engage with interactive stations featuring meditation, sacred smoke clearing, and more. Explore local artisans and wellness products. Celebrate connection, creativity, and healing. Be part of a unique journey to enrich your life and community. Don’t miss it!

Back-to-School Smile Check

Back-to-school season is the perfect time to check in on your child’s dental health. A healthy smile supports confidence, focus, and overall wellness. Regular brushing and flossing help prevent cavities, while limiting sugary snacks and drinks protects enamel. Schedule a dental checkup before school starts to catch any issues early and ensure a fresh start for the year. Encourage kids to drink plenty of water and choose tooth-friendly snacks like cheese, fruits, and vegetables. Good oral habits at home, paired with professional care, set the foundation for lifelong dental health—helping your child smile brightly all school year long.

Laser Therapy Overview

Laser therapy can be used to manage many musculoskeletal complaints. There are 2 major categories of laser therapy used in musculoskeletal healthcare. These consist of Class 3b laser (low level laser therapy), and Class 4 laser therapy (high intensity laser therapy). At Origin, we use a Class 4 laser therapy which has higher wattage and allows for increased dosage to an area over a shorter time and deeper penetration of tissue. Laser therapy can be helpful for managing a large variety of conditions such as sprains/strains, osteoarthritis, tendinitis (including tennis/golfer elbow), shoulder injuries, plantar fasciitis and many other conditions. Give us a call if you would like to discuss laser therapy with one of our chiropractors.

Healthy Smiles, Happy Pets

Good dental health is essential for cats and dogs, impacting their overall well-being. Just like humans, pets can develop plaque, tartar, and gum disease, which may lead to pain, tooth loss, and infections. Poor oral health can even affect vital organs if bacteria enter the bloodstream. Regular brushing, dental chews, and professional cleanings help keep their teeth and gums healthy. Non-sedation ultrasonic dental cleaning is a safe, effective option that removes plaque and tartar without anesthesia. Early detection and care prevent serious issues, improving your pet’s comfort, appetite, and energy for a happier, healthier life. Book today and receive $50 off for the month of Sept.

Chicken Lemon Dill Meatball Soup

Ingredients
2 carrots, sliced
2 stalks celery, sliced
1 small onion, chopped
2 Tbsp. olive oil
5 cups lower-sodium chicken broth
3 cups water
1 3/4 cups bulgur
12 oz. ground chicken breast
1/4 cup finely chopped fresh dill
1 tsp. grated lemon zest
Directions
Step 1
In 6- to 7-quart saucepot on medium, cook carrots, celery and onion in olive oil 10 minutes, stirring. Add chicken broth and water; heat to boiling on high. Stir in bulgur. Reduce heat; simmer 8 to 10 minutes or until vegetables are almost tender.
Step 2
Meanwhile, combine ground chicken breast, dill, lemon zest, and 1/4 teaspoon each salt and pepper. Form chicken mixture into 1-inch balls; add to simmering soup along with 1/4 teaspoon salt. Cook 6 minutes or until cooked through.
Enjoy!

Gentle Hands, Greater Comfort

For those with arthritis, stiffness and discomfort can limit even simple movements. Soft tissue therapy, combined with gentle and effective mobilization techniques, offers relief by easing tension in surrounding muscles and ligaments. Manual traction and targeted joint mobilization help reduce tightness, improve flexibility, and promote better movement patterns. Infrared modalities reduces pain. These approaches work together to restore range of motion, making daily activities more manageable. By addressing both joint and soft tissue restrictions, this gentle care supports mobility, eases discomfort and helps patients move with greater freedom and confidence.