When your knees chronically hurt you are told it’s a sign of aging and degeneration, which is very true. However, did you know there is a method of treatment to regenerate your knees? Prolozone therapy results in about 75% of chronic pain sufferers to become permanently pain free. Chronic pain occurs in areas of the body that are especially vulnerable to the effects of decreased oxygen utilization and aging. Prolozone therapy with procaine, natural anti-inflammatory medications, vitamins & minerals and ozone gives the tissues what they need to heal. And as they heal, the circulation to the knees is re-established.

Small changes when you’re working to better your overall health and wellbeing can really add up! This year, consider some simple habit shifts like these: If you find yourself reaching for junk foods frequently, make healthy snacks like fruit and nuts available at all times to curb your cravings. Practice simple deep breathing exercises throughout the day. Count to five as you breathe in, hold your breath while you count to five again, and slowly breathe out while counting to five once more. Take a break from sitting throughout the day by taking brisk walks inside or outdoors!

A new year brings new goals, which require us to challenge ourselves and move away from what’s easy. Without challenge, we cannot change! Seeking different types of therapeutic help and forms of exercise is a great way to do this, and it’s perfectly fine (and normal!) to experience some discomfort in our bodies. Discomfort means we are challenging our bodies to change neurologically and physiologically! Listening to your body is key and learning the difference between temporary discomfort and longer lasting aggravation comes with practice. Book a discovery appointment today to combine movement exploration with hands on massage!

Q: I’m 68 years old and my health insurance only covers glasses every two years. Why does my optometrist keep asking me to come in every year?
A: BC’s Medical Services Plan usually partially covers yearly optometric examinations for those over 65, regardless of your own personal health insurance plan. This is because it is well known that age increases the risk of eye diseases like cataracts, glaucoma and macular degeneration, which are checked during eye examinations. Having a yearly eye exam as a senior doesn’t mean you need to get new glasses every year; the exams are recommended for the health of your eyes.

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.

At Ocean Chiropractic, Dr. Patrick Johnson and his team specialize in Chiropractic care using the Koren Specific and Torque Release Techniques. Along with Chiropractic care, Ocean Chiropractic is proud to offer a unique approach to custom orthotics and foot rehabilitation to the residents of the Comox Valley. As a chiropractor, Dr. Pat is trained to assess whether orthotics are right for you. “Our mission is to empower our practice members to make healthy and informed decisions and we will work collaboratively with you to develop a treatment plan to restore your health. We also strive to serve, love, heal and transform you beyond your greatest expectations.”

The first step is to assess the home, perhaps with help from an occupational therapist. It’s possible that your residence isn’t suited for senior living – maybe it’s too large or too remote, for instance. In that case, you can think about alternatives, such as a different home, a retirement residence or assisted living facility. Often, homes can be made safer with modifications. Small, inexpensive changes that can make a big difference to a senior’s comfort and safety include installing railings and grab bars; improving lighting for hallways and staircases; eliminating tripping hazards; changing doorknobs and cabinet pulls to lever handles; adding higher toilet seats; and widening doorways to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.