“Runner’s knee” is commonly used to describe two types of injuries of the knee, iliotibial band syndrome and patellofemoral pain syndrome. Both fall into the category of overuse or repetitive strain type injuries. They can occur in isolation or in combination, but both have been shown to be related to poor running mechanics and improper training volumes. What’s the solution? First step is a proper diagnosis by your healthcare practitioner. This should be followed by strength and mobility exercises to improve biomechanics, adjustment of training volumes as needed, and possibly gait analysis and footwear adjustments if it is deemed necessary.

How are you staying fresh and hydrated this summer? As the days continue to be warm and long it’s important to get enough water, fruit, and vegetables to keep your body refreshed. You may notice feelings of tiredness, headaches, and dry mouth which are all signs of dehydration. You may try flavouring your water (blackberries and mint, raspberries and cucumber, strawberries and fresh basil). Keep tabs on the colour of your urine: Light-yellow colour is a good indicator that you are hydrated, dark urine is the opposite. You can also combat dehydration with higher water content fruits and vegetables like cucumbers, stone fruits, watermelons, or smoothies.

Why is it that some injuries never heal, and go on to become areas of chronic pain and dysfunction? These localized areas fail to heal because of a localized decrease in oxygen utilization. And why do people heal so much more reliably when they are young than when they become older? The answer in both cases has to do with decreased oxygen utilization which serves as a foundation for chronic pain and degeneration. Break that cycle by the application of ozone therapy or Prolozone injections which maximizes oxygen absorption, and the cells and tissues can begin to do what they usually do so well – heal themselves.

Q; I do a lot of driving. Is it worth getting Transitions lenses? I’ve heard they don’t get very dark in a vehicle.

A: You’re correct, typical Transitions lenses need UV light to darken, and most vehicle windows and windshields block much of that wavelength of light. The lenses might still be worth it for all the other times you might enjoy some relief from the sunlight. If you really want them specifically for driving, it’s possible to obtain lenses which are not as dependent on UV light to darken, but these remain a little darker in all light conditions.

Sunny, summer days are in full swing! Hurrah! Have you stocked up on your sunscreen? Around 90% of cases of skin cancer are associated with exposure to solar and artificial ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Using a quality sunscreen can reduce your exposure to damaging UV radiation. You should choose a broad-spectrum sunscreen that protects you against UVA and UVB rays. UVA rays are responsible for the phototoxic reaction thought to be associated with squamous cell cancers and melanomas. UVB rays are responsible for sunburns. Look for products that provide you with adequate protection against both UVA and UVB rays.

There are many misconceptions about the ‘right’ way to invest into retirement. Everyone has different ideas, needs and investing temperament. You may become very conservative when employment income ends, but you may not. Investing for growth (at least to some degree) is crucially important for most of us, as we will need growth to provide income and not erode purchasing power as we age. Many of us will also have 20-30 years (or more) dependent upon our own investments to meet our lifestyle needs. Seek out a Certified Financial Planner for an analysis and review of your accounts to see if your portfolio is optimal for your situation.