Elements Therapeutic Massage - Naperville

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Wed, 09 Nov 2011 19:45:00 -0600

Should anyone avoid a massage?

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 09:35:00 -0500

People with these conditions should avoid massage:

Heart failure
Kidney failure
Infection of the superficial veins (called phlebitis) or soft tissue (called cellulitis) in the legs or elsewhere
Blood clots in the legs
Bleeding disorders
Contagious skin conditions

If you have cancer, check with your doctor before considering massage because massage can damage tissue that is fragile from chemotherapy or radiation treatments. People with rheumatoid arthritis, goiter (a thyroid disorder characterized by an enlarged thyroid), eczema, and other skin lesions should not receive massage therapy during flare ups. Experts also advise that people with osteoporosis, high fever, few platelets or white blood cells, and mental impairment, as well as those recovering from surgery, should avoid massage. Check with your doctor.

Tell your massage therapist about any medications you are taking, as massage may influence absorption or activity of both oral and topical medications.

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What is massage good for?

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 09:30:00 -0500

In general, massage is believed to support healing, boost energy, reduce recovery time after an injury, ease pain, and enhance relaxation, mood, and well being. It is useful for many musculoskeletal problems, such as low back pain, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, and sprains and strains. Massage may also relieve depression in people with chronic fatigue syndrome, ease chronic constipation (when the technique is performed in the abdominal area), decrease swelling, alleviate sleep disorders, and improve self image. In the workplace, massage has been shown to melt away stress and enhance mental alertness. One study found that deep tissue massage reduced blood pressure levels (an average reduction of 10.4 mm Hg in systolic pressure and a diastolic pressure reduction of 5.3 mm Hg). Other studies show that massage may have immediate beneficial effects on pain and mood among patients with advanced cancer.

Clinical studies show that massage relieves chronic back pain more effectively than other treatments (including acupuncture and conventional medical care for this condition with education via books and videos) and, in many cases, costs less than other treatments. Mothers and newborns also appear to benefit from massage. Mothers trained to massage their infants often feel less depressed and have a better emotional bond with their babies. Newborns who receive massage from their mothers also tend to cry less, and are more active, alert, and sociable. Premature babies who receive massage therapy have been shown to gain weight faster than preemies who do not receive this type of therapy. Infants who receive massage regularly may also sleep better, be less gassy or colicky, and have better body awareness as well as more regular digestion.

Clinical studies also show that massage may be an effective treatment for young children and adolescents with a wide range of health problems, including:

Autism: Autistic children, who usually don't like being touched, show less autistic behavior and are more social and attentive after receiving massage therapy from their parents.
Atopic dermatitis/eczema: Children with this scaly, itchy skin problem seem to experience less redness, scaling, and other symptoms if receiving massage between flares. Massage should not be used when this skin condition is actively inflamed.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD): Massage may improve mood in children with ADHD and help them feel less fidgety and hyperactive.
Bulimia: Studies show that adolescents with this eating disorder feel less depressed and anxious after receiving massage therapy.
Cystic fibrosis: Massage may reduce anxiety and improve respiration in children with this lung condition.
Diabetes: Massage may help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce anxiety and depression in children with diabetes.
Rheumatoid arthritis: Children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) have been shown to experience less pain, morning stiffness, and anxiety as a result of massage therapy.

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How does massage work?

Wed, 21 Mar 2012 09:14:00 -0500

For centuries, human touch has been shown to be emotionally and physically healing. Particular massage techniques may either stimulate or calm the body's muscles and tissues to create a desired effect. When a practitioner massages soft tissue, electrical signals are transmitted both to the local area and throughout the body. These signals, in combination with the healing properties of touch, help heal damaged muscle, stimulate circulation, clear waste products via the lymphatic system, boost the activity of the immune system, reduce pain and tension, and induce a calming effect. Massage may also enhance well being by stimulating the release of endorphins (natural painkillers and mood elevators) and reducing levels of certain stress hormones.

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Thanksgiving Calories Add Up Quick

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 07:34:00 -0600

How long is your "It won't be Thanksgiving without . . . " list? Along with turkey, gravy and cranberry sauce, my dream list would include mashed white potatoes and sweet potatoes, corn bread stuffing and oyster dressing, Brussels sprouts and green beans, creamed onions and cream-of-something soup, a substantial selection of crackers, cheeses and cold cuts, and apple and pumpkin pies with real whipped cream.

Add them all up, and it's caloric overload.

But since Thanksgiving comes just once a year, most people in good health should relax and enjoy the splurge.

Thanksgiving represents our family, cultural and often religious traditions; they help identify who you are.

But (you knew there was a "but'' coming), as soon as you push away from the table, Thanksgiving dinner is over and you need to go back to a healthy eating plan.

A typical Thanksgiving meal, including dessert, wine and a few munchies before the main event, can easily add up to more than 2,400 calories. That's before you go back for seconds.

We offer the calorie counts of some Thanksgiving favorites not to ruin the fun, but just because it's interesting. And heck, if you really never liked pecan pie anyway, now you have a good excuse to turn it down: At about 500 calories a slice, skipping the pie saves you lots of room for things you do like.

Sweet potato casserole ½ cup: 274 calories

Green bean casserole ½ cup: 82 calories

Stuffing ½ cup: 178 calories

Pumpkin Pie (1/8 pie): 340 calories

Cranberry sauce ¼ cup: 110 calories

Turkey breast 3 ounces no skin: 118 calories

Gravy ½ cup, fat skimmed off: 50 calories

Mashed white potatoes ½ cup: 118 calories

Dinner roll 1-ounce 84 calories

Butter 1 tablespoon: 100 calories

EXTRAS

Butter 1 tablespoon: 100 calories

Wine 5-ounce glass: 120 calories

Beer 12-ounce bottle: 150 calories

Ginger ale 12-ounce can: 124 calories

Mixed nuts 2 small handfuls: 335 calories

3 celery and 3 carrot sticks dipped in ranch dressing 100 calories

Pecan pie slice with whipped cream 555 calories

Potato chips 1 ounce: 150 calories

Source for all calorie counts: www.calorieking.com

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Holiday Stress - Tips to Stay On Top

Thu, 17 Nov 2011 18:42:00 -0600

Here "it" comes -- holiday stress. As families negotiate where to spend Thanksgiving, and millions of us are making the empty promise to ourselves to start early on holiday shopping, the anxiety begins to build. And it only gets crazier from here. Choir practice for the kids, family gatherings at every turn, office parties, treks to the mall, baking...you know where this is headed. So what can you do about it? You may not be able to control the chaos of the season, but there are some steps to make sure you survive it unscathed.

1.Take time for yourself. YES, get a massage. Soak in a mineral bath. Listen to the silence of a snowfall. Even if there seems no possible moment you can claim as your own, close your eyes, breathe deep from your belly several times, exhaling the air loudly from your mouth. Do this whenever you need a "moment."

2. Utilize catalog/online shopping. Don't fight the crowds. From the convenience of your home or during an office lunch hour, catalog and online shopping can eliminate the headache of holiday stress tenfold.

3. Eat right. Some of the best goodies come out this time of year. While you shouldn't deny yourself the opportunity to have a piece of grandma's pumpkin pie, don't overdo it. Remember to eat plenty of vegies and fruits to help stave off the winter's bombardment of colds.

4. Give yourself the advantage. Consumption of alcohol, nicotine, drugs and caffeine elicit the body's stress reaction. Remember moderation, you'll be happier and calmer in the long run.

5. Don't skimp on the exercise...but allow yourself to be excused from the routine when need be. Exercise helps melt the stress away and can provide that moment of clarity in a hectic day.

6. Don't try to be Martha Stewart. It's easy to get caught up in the spirit of the holidays with new decorating ideas, fancy dinners and the whim to make all your gifts this year. Be realistic and honest with yourself. Don't set yourself up for failure. Hire a caterer. Have friends help by having a craft day. Forgo making the gift wreath and give a gift you'll know they'll appreciate -- a massage.

7. Remember the spirit. When it's all said and done, no one will remember that the turkey was a little dry, that the sweater didn't fit, or that you were a few minutes late for rehearsal. What do they remember? The precious moments with family and friends.

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Fibromyalgia: Management Through Massage

Fri, 04 Nov 2011 09:53:00 -0500

What is Fibromyalgia?
Fibromyalgia is associated with widespread chronic pain, fatigue, memory problems and mood changes. It occurs more often in women than in men, and is not a disease, but rather a syndrome that can be managed. Fortunately, fibromyalgia is not life threatening and does not lead to muscle or joint damage.

Benefits of Massage Therapy for Fibromyalgia
Massage therapy is one of the oldest methods of healthcare still in practice. At Elements Therapeutic Massage, our professional massage therapists concentrate on techniques that encourage circulation in the muscles, which increases the flow of nutrients and eliminates waste products. This is particularly beneficial for those with fibromyalgia as it can reduce heart rate, relax muscles, improve range of motion in joints and increase production of the body's natural painkillers.

What Massage Techniques Will Be Used?
Elements Therapeutic Massage's professional massage therapists integrate a variety of massage techniques specific to Fibromyalgia. Depending on your sensitivity levels and tender points, your therapist may utilize Reflexology or various forms of massage, or certain methods that address your specific requests and needs.

Sleep Better, Feel Better
One of the main symptoms of fibromyalgia is waking up tired, even if it seems you've received plenty of sleep. After a therapeutic massage from Elements Therapeutic Massage, you're likely to feel more relaxed and get a better night's rest. Deep sleep is truly beneficial to managing fibromyalgia as it is during this time that the restorative process occurs. So not only will a therapeutic massage help you wake more refreshed, but you may also experience less pain during the day.

But Won't it Hurt?
Because fibromyalgia causes pain and makes your body extremely sensitive to touch, open lines of communication are vital when it comes to how much pressure your muscles can endure during your session. Our professional therapists are familiar with the specific needs of those suffering from fibromyalgia, but you should also feel comfortable communicating to your therapist which will ensure a soothing, therapeutic massage every time. If you ever have questions, please consult your doctor before beginning any therapy.

Relief Through Therapy
Studies show that low-impact exercise programs give people with fibromyalgia relief by raising the levels of natural chemicals in the body that reduce pain and fatigue. You may be reluctant to exercise if you are already tired and in pain, but there are several options now available to you. With a Elements Therapeutic Massage membership, not only can you enjoy a gentle, therapeutic massage, but we also offer massages that utilize stretching and relaxation. You should begin slowly, but with ongoing help from our professional therapists, you can benefit from continual relief.

What are the Benefits of Regular Massage for Fibromyalgia?

Here's the beauty of massage: Not only does each session feel great, but also the therapeutic benefits are compounded when massage is utilized as a frequent therapy. The more you go, the healthier you feel. With a Elements Therapeutic Massage membership, you can enjoy these benefits as often as you'd like. Monthly dues include a 55min massage session and unlimited additional one-hour sessions at the low membership rate. So you can relax, rejuvenate and continue to grow healthier wherever you go.

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Sources:

The Arthritis Foundation®
Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research®
The Touch Institute of the University of Miami School of Medicine

The Pain Truth - Fibromyalgia

Wed, 02 Nov 2011 14:49:00 -0500

Chronic pain. Sleeplessness and fatigue. Digestive troubles. Put them all together, and they’re a set of symptoms that may point to fibromyalgia, a baffling and potentially devastating syndrome that can severely affect quality of life. With no proven cause or treatment to guide them, people with fibromyalgia must manage their symptoms any way they can. Fortunately, spas have much to offer them. Menu staples such as massage and hydrotherapy, as well as specialized services such as acupuncture, can turn your spa into an essential care facility for a fibromyalgia client.

Ten million Americans, and as much as 3% to 6% of the world’s population, currently have the syndrome, according to the National Fibromyalgia Association (FMA, fmaware.org), and 75% to 90% of those sufferers are women. According to the FMA, fibromyalgia commonly occurs as widespread pain in all four quadrants of the body for a minimum duration of three months, with pain in at least 11 of the 18 designated tender points (see illustration, page 92). The pain may be classified as stabbing, shooting, aching, throbbing or twitching.

In recent years, physicians have loosened the diagnosis criteria if, for example, a patient has persistent pain in only a few of the tender points or in only half of the body. However, fibromyalgia is still a difficult syndrome to identify because the symptoms overlap with those of many other maladies. “It’s been a garbage pail kind of diagnosis, one that doctors settle on when they’ve ruled out other things, so that insurance companies will cover it,” says Tracy Whynot, licensed acupuncturist and co-owner of Place 360 Health + Spa in Del Mar, California.

As for causes, theories abound: infection, virus, genetics, stress and trauma have all been identified as potential culprits. For years, many experts doubted that fibromyalgia really existed at all. “It used to be thought of as an ‘all in your head’ problem,” Whynot says. However, it’s now generally understood that the syndrome is real, and physicians usually opt for symptomatic treatment, such as medication, to manage the pain. However, “standard Western medicine works for some people and not others,” Whynot points out. “And that’s where spa services come in.”

Hands-On Results

For clients living with the chronic pain fibromyalgia brings, massage therapy can be a godsend. Some clients benefit from a soft, cranial-sacral approach; others can tolerate more manipulation. Some may get enhanced relief with the use of heat; others with cold. For many sufferers, the pain comes and goes and its severity varies, so effective communication with the therapist is essential.

Dr. Jacob Teitelbaum, medical director of the Fibromyalgia & Fatigue Centers, with 16 locations throughout the U.S., views the syndrome in holistic terms. “It’s a human energy crisis,” he says. “The hypothalamus gland is the body’s main circuit and with fibromyalgia it blows a fuse. Because these patients have an energy crisis, their muscles are shortened. Muscles need energy to relax, just like it takes a force of energy for a spring to stretch.” To help stretch those constricted muscles, a massage therapist may employ myofascial release techniques. Since massage therapy prompts cells to produce endorphins and serotonins that counteract pain signals from the brain, it also helps to increase the blood flow and flexibility often compromised in fibromyalgia patients. Some clients may benefit from lymphatic drainage or trigger point modalities, or from Rolfing and Trager work.

For clients living with the chronic pain fibromyalgia brings, massage therapy can be a godsend.

To counteract the “adrenal overdrive” that Teitelbaum associates with fibromyalgic patients, he suggests that therapists teach these clients to slow down internally. Massage combined with music is often helpful in distracting a client’s mind from her pain, allowing her to release it. Teitelbaum also suggests guided progressive relaxation. “Keep things soft,” he advises. “Use soft lighting. What’s soothing to the soul is soothing to the body.”

People with fibromyalgia almost always have sleep problems, and they tend to awake unrefreshed. Research points to bursts of awake-like brain activity in fibromyalgia patients that limit the amount of time spent in stage four deep sleep. Aromatherapy massage, especially with lavender, may promote better sleep. On the flip side, fibromyalgia often manifests in a foggy brain and a treatment using essences like citrus might counteract that effect. Even within the limited realm of massage, one treatment does not fit all.

Beyond the Knead

There are a number of in-spa treatments besides massage that can help fibromyalgia clients. Hydrotherapy can be deeply healing, says Teitelbaum, although special care should be taken to make sure clients don’t become dizzy or lightheaded, and to keep them hydrated with plenty of cool drinking water. “Dry sauna is very relaxing and helps build immunity,” says Michelle Reed, owner of Valencia Day Spa & Therapy Center in Frisco, Texas. “Steam is effective, too.”

Fibromyalgia clients may also appreciate receiving facials, for several reasons: 1) Medication can cause changes to the skin; 2) A debilitating illness like this may result in loss of work and personal relationships, and the facial services can provide a needed dose of self-confidence and well-being; 3) The musculature of the face may be a source of pain that facial massage can relieve.

If your spa offers classes in yoga, tai chi or qi gong you may consider steering your fibromyalgia clients toward these.

“It’s all about finding out what the client can handle,” says Reed. “Some can’t take a regular facial, so we modify it. Some can’t handle waxing. Even when doing nails, we take a health history to make sure we know about any sensitivities.”

Gentle exercise is also recommended. If your spa offers classes in yoga, tai chi or qi gong you may consider steering your fibromyalgia clients toward these. Even incorporating range of motion into a massage may alleviate pain. Nutritional counseling might be extremely helpful, as diet seems to have a critical effect on the frequency and severity of symptoms. For example, most sources say it’s a good idea to avoid sugar, and Whynot advises fibro clients to steer clear of caffeine and limit carbohydrates. According to Teitelbaum, increasing salt intake may bring relief for some people.

Hypnotherapy, homeopathy and herbal remedies may help with the pain, sleep disturbances and digestive problems that are sometimes experienced with the syndrome. Acupuncture also provides many benefits. “We can retrain the body and ease the adrenal exhaustion and fatigue,” says Whynot. “And with acupuncture we can change the response to pain.”

Living the Life

As with other chronic ailments for which there are treatments but no cure, fibromyalgia calls for a daily, multifaceted approach. On the conventional medicine side, physicians may prescribe the neuropathic pain reliever pregabalin (Lyrica) or the antidepressant duloxetine (Cymbalta). However, because no one medication protocol has been proven to help all patients, other medications may be used. Hormonal support and nutritional supplements are also sometimes needed.

And spa visits can become part of a regular fibro-fighting regime. Work with clients to design a schedule that consistently assuages their symptoms yet fits into their budget. “I have one client who can’t function without a massage every week. It helps her with the pain, the fog and the sleep,” says Reed. Some of her clients receive reimbursement from their health insurance companies for spa treatments, or use their personal flex care and health savings accounts to offset the expense of massage therapy. “Clients are getting creative about how to pay for treatments,” she notes. “Some say it’s worth it to cut back on eating out or buying clothing.”

In and of itself, the loving touch and encouragement that a therapist gives can produce a cognitive change in these clients. “Fibromyalgia patients need to stop spending more energy than they produce,” says Teitelbaum. “They need to say no to what feels bad and yes to what feels good. This syndrome is treatable. What helps the most is when they learn to follow their bliss.” •

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FACIAL MASSAGE FOR WRINKLES

Tue, 25 Oct 2011 13:46:00 -0500

Overview

Not all wrinkle remedies come from a bottle or a surgeon's scalpel. Facial massage can be an alternative way to stimulate circulation and reduce the appearance of wrinkles, according to Elle Canada. Knowing different methods of facial massage can help you find a technique that works for you.

Circular Massage Method

You can perform a facial massage at home with only a few products, according to the Massage Therapy 101 website. You should begin by cleansing the face and hands; this prevents bacteria and oils from entering the pores. You can use moisturizer as your massage oil. If your skin is acne-prone, it's important to avoid using a product that contains oil, as it can lead to further breakouts. Massage for about 20 minutes using gentle, circular motions. Rub commonly wrinkled areas, such as the forehead, cheeks and mouth.

Patting Method

The patting method is an alternative form of facial massage from Monika Struna, the author of "Self-Massage," who is interviewed on MotherNature.com, a website devoted to health and wellness. To perform, stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Lean forward slightly and pat your face with the bottom side of your fingers. Your right hand should pat the right side of your face, and your left hand should pat the left side of your face. Continue for 15 to 20 seconds to invigorate the skin.

Time Frame

The best time of day to perform a wrinkle-relieving facial massage is first thing in the morning, according to Massage Therapy 101. Because your circulation is reduced while you are asleep, a facial massage first thing in the morning can boost circulation and reduce puffiness due to water retention.

Benefits

When performed regularly, facial massage can stimulate circulation, according to Elle Canada. This brings nourishing blood to the skin, stimulating cell growth. Facial massage also can tighten facial muscles and release tension, which can provide immediately noticeable effects, such as increased radiance.

Warning

Take care when you are massaging the face. The skin tends to be more delicate than on other areas of the body. Using a lotion or moisturizer to help the fingers slide more easily can prevent skin tearing and damage. Stay away from the delicate undereye area.

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References

"Text Neck"

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 10:04:00 -0500

The affliction, caused by flexing the neck for extended periods of time, can be a forerunner of permanent arthritic damage if it goes without treatment.

Cases of the repetitive strain injury are on the rise as smart phones and tablet computers such as the iPad become increasingly popular, experts said.

In severe cases the muscles can eventually adapt to fit the flexed position, making it painful to straighten the neck out properly.

One chiropractor said her company had treated thousands of patients for the condition, which can also result in headaches and shoulder, arm and wrist pain.

Rachael Lancaster, of Freedom Back Clinics in Leeds, said: "Text neck is caused by the neck being flexed for a prolonged period of time.

"Sufferers are increasing as the use of smart phones and tablet computers become more popular."

The condition occurs because the joints and tissue in the neck are not built to withstand being flexed for long periods, and spending hours peering down at a screen puts them under too much stress, she added.

"Imagine sitting on your ankle sideways for 10 minutes. It would feel stiff and sore when you returned it to its natural position.

"That is exactly what people are doing with their necks. If people continue to put their necks in these positions, the body will gradually adapt to the stresses."

Keeping the neck and head stretched forwards for long periods could eventually cause the natural curvature of the neck to reverse, potentially leading to serious health problems, she added.

The condition can be avoided by taking regular screen breaks, and looking straight ahead while tucking the chin back towards the neck every few minutes.

Rotating the shoulders with your arms by your sides, sitting up straight while texting and holding the phone a little higher can also help maintain a healthy posture.

Tim Hutchful, of the British Chiropractic Association, said doctors were seeing a rising number of patients with similar neck problems but that getting regular exercise could help ward of symptoms.

The average human head weighs between 10lb and 12lb (4.5kg to 5.5kg), and flexing the neck makes it harder to support like carrying a similar weight at arm's length.

Children are most at risk because their heads are larger in relation to their body size than adults, and women with slender necks should also take extra care to maintain a good posture, he added.

"When the head is over the shoulders it is a bit like a balanced see-saw, and when you move it forward you need to put a force in place to keep it in that position.

"The longer you are in that position for, the more the muscles have to accommodate it."

For more information call Dr. Korey at Toensing Family Chiropractic (630) 857-3542 & "like" her on Facebook (below) & Twitter @ToensingChiro for lots of good information.

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Spa Etiquette: Should You Get Naked Under That Robe?

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 14:06:00 -0500

Spa treatments are designed to make you look and feel better, but it's definitely not relaxing to be left in the changing room with nothing but a robe and a bunch of unanswered questions. So, should you be giving your therapist the full monty? If you're getting a Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, or other "standard" massage, keeping your undies on actually gets in the way of muscle work, plus it's likely to get messed up by massage oil; the same goes for lotion. Some treatments, like acupressure massages, don't require you to be unclothed.

If you're unsure about how much or little to take off, just ask. And if you're worried about being judged by your therapist, don't. A therapist once told us that they are looking at your muscles and alignment, not thinking about your size.

Massage Therapy For Menopause

Wed, 19 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Menopause. The mere sound of the word quickly floods the mind with thoughts of hot flashes, irrational mood swings, bothersome pain and an aging woman who is no longer in her prime. It's connotation with such negative effects makes it easy to forget that we can view menopause as something else: a milestone and an opportunity to stop and pamper ourselves.

While visits to the gynecologist are necessary, it may be time to schedule an appointment with your massage therapist as well. Massage therapy may be a helpful outlet for reducing stress, one of the main agitators of the menopausal symptoms experienced by women.

Various spas offer rejuvenating and relaxing treatments for women experiencing the less-than-comfortable side effects of menopause.

Book your appointment now (630) 922-9595 and "Like" our Facebook page for more great information!

Health Benefits Of Catechins In Green Tea

Sat, 15 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

When researchers were trying to find out what made green tea such a potent health drink, they discovered that most of its protective effects originate with the catechins. Tea has 4 primary catechins- EC, EGC, ECg, and EGCG, which is the most powerful of them all. It is almost 100 times more potent than vitamins C and E.

A cup of green tea gives you between 10 and 40 milligrams of polyphenols, and has more antioxidants than a serving of carrots, broccoli, or spinach. This high antioxidant content makes it ideal for protecting the body from free radicals. It may help to clear arterial blockages by reducing the amount of lipids absorbed into the bloodstream.

Green tea can inhibit the growth of cancer cells, and also protects the immune systems of those undergoing radiation treatments or chemotherapy. White blood cell counts are more easily maintained in those who supplement with green tea.

Green tea is made from unprocessed tea leaves, so the oxidation of the catechins hasn’t had a chance to start. This means that green tea has more antioxidant power than almost any other food. Catechins may be so effective because they can bind to proteins, keeping bacteria and possibly viruses from sticking to cell walls. Catechin is thus a potent antibacterial, and it can also chelate metals like mercury, cadmium, and even lead.

The tannins in green tea are primarily catechins, and are chiefly responsible for the tart taste of green tea. The amount of catechin in green tea usually rises as the season goes on. The first crop of the season would contain about 12% catechins, while a summer crop contains about 14% catechins. Younger leaves generally contain more catechins than older leaves. Summer teas are less tangy than spring teas, making them more palatable.

Catechins are a big part of what makes green tea such an effective supplement. If you don’t like to drink green tea, there are a lot of highly concentrated supplements available that will provide the same benefits. A serving of three tablets contains about as much caffeine as a cup of coffee, and liquid supplements are generally more potent than tablets. Whatever you choose, catechin and green tea will definitely improve your health!

For more information contact Toensing Family Chiropractic (630) 857-3542 "Like" us on Facebook below & follow us on Twitter @ToensingChiro.

Preparing for Winter

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 00:00:00 -0500

Prepare Your Body for Winter Activities with a Combination of Stretching and Massage Therapy

Staying fit during the winter holiday season comes with a long list of unique challenges and obstacles, but staying injury free can take even more of an effort when you introduce new, winter-specific activities like skiing, skating and sledding into your fitness routine. Before the winter activity season is in full swing, take steps today to warm up and loosen your muscles so you can hit the slopes or the rink pain free, as well as minimize after-activity soreness and fatigue.

Warm Up and Engage New Muscle Groups during the Pre-Season to Stay Injury Free

Before carving fresh tracks down the slopes this winter or lacing up your skates to hit the rink with your kids, it is important to incorporate a combination of regular stretching and therapeutic massage sessions for an active and injury free winter season. The key to keeping active during the winter months and staying off your family’s injured list is to focus on body flexibility and lengthening your muscles in the pre-season. Many of the popular wintertime activities (skiing, snowboarding and skating) physically impact your lower body, thereby creating a need for you to focus your stretching and strength efforts on hip, hamstring and trunk/lower back flexibility.

According to the National Academy of Sports Medicine, there are two common types of stretching – static stretching and dynamic stretching – that are good for promoting overall flexibility. Research indicates that holding a static stretch for 20-30 seconds allows your muscles time to relax and elongate, thereby increasing joint range of motion. Dynamic stretching on the other hand includes low intensity exercises that mimic sport specific movements. These types of stretches are good for warming up your body prior to a sports activity, as they help increase circulation, reduce muscle tightness and help your nervous system’s ability to contract muscles forcefully.

To kick off your winter pre-season regimen, it’s a good idea to combine consistent stretching sessions with routinely scheduled monthly massages 8-12 weeks prior to the start of your favorite wintertime activity. Regular therapeutic massages prior to your desired activity allow your body to release the toxins found in tight muscles, while increasing overall flexibility and circulation. Additionally, your massage therapist can assess and monitor your body’s flexibility range, while suggesting specific stretches and other techniques that will focus on lengthening and strengthening your body’s problem areas.

Remedy Your Winter Aches and Pains with Regular Massage Body Work

As the snow begins to fall and the barometric pressure takes a dive south, your body faces some unique challenges, especially as you get older and recovery times for muscle injuries and overuse get longer. Even when you focus on preparing your body for winter wear and tear before the season starts, there still may be an unfortunate event where you will become injured or experience some sort of ache and pain associated with muscle overuse and fatigue.

Lower back pain, in particular, is a common injury culprit in the winter as you can overdo it shoveling snow, incorrectly bending over to push your children’s sleds or accidently slipping and falling on ice covered sidewalks. In fact, research indicates that 70-85% of the population will experience low back pain at some point and lower back pain is one of the most common and costly musculoskeletal problem in modern society. Luckily, research supports that massage therapy can minimize pain and disability, while increasing the speed of return to normal function. Massage specifically is beneficial for patients with subacute (lasting four to 12 weeks) and chronic (lasting longer than 12 weeks) non-specific low-back pain, especially when combined with exercises and education. Furlan AD, Imamura M, Dryden T, Irvin E. Massage for low-back pain. Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews 2008, Issue 4. Art. No.: CD001929. DOI: 10.1002/14651858.CD001929.pub2

Additional research from Group Health Research Institute, the University of Washington in Seattle, the Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, and the University of Vermont in Burlington revealed that massage therapy has helped reduce pain and improve function more rapidly than usual medical care in people with chronic low-back pain. Back pain is a health problem that affects millions of Americans and is the most common medical condition for which people use complementary and alternative medicine practices, such as massage therapy.Cherkin DC, Sherman KJ, Kahn J, et al. Annals of Internal Medicine. 2011;155(1):1–9

Whether you are preparing yourself for family fun winter activities or recovering from a wintertime sports injury or accident, therapeutic massage sessions combined with a consistent stretching regimen should be your go-to strategy for minimizing aches and pains this winter season. Call Elements Naperville today to schedule your winter pre-season massage therapy sessions.

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