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OAKVILLE BEAVER Saturday, April 11, 2009 · 10 HEALTH AND WELLNESS What you need to know when measuring blood pressure at home While physicians across the country can provide healthy tips and medication information, blood pressure can be easily measured in and out of the doctor's office. Canadians today are independent, empowered and educated about their health. Home monitoring is an excellent way to work together with your health care provider, to understand what lifestyle choices and medications will benefit your heart. At-home monitoring means you can measure your blood pressure in a comfortable, familiar setting. Checking your blood pressure at home helps you and your health care provider understand how to control your blood pressure on a day-to-day basis. It can also reduce the number of clinical visits you need. World Hypertension Day on May 17th, will help bring awareness to the importance of monitoring your blood pressure at home. Here are some tips and tricks to help you get an accurate reading: · Buy a blood pressure instrument that is recommended by the Canadian Hypertension Society · Blood pressure monitors can be purchased at most pharmacies · Ensure that the blood pressure cuff fits your arm. Choose a cuff size that covers 80% of your arm. Ask your pharmacists to determine the right cuff size · Only buy an instrument that measures blood pressure in the upper arm; wrist and finger units may not provide accurate readings · Before measuring your blood pressure at home, have your doctor or nurse compare your home monitor with the office model. Also, have him or her watch how you use the device to see if you're doing it properly · Take your blood pressure at consistent times, such as in the morning and in the evening · Use the same arm whenever you take your blood pressure. Remember that many digital monitors are meant for use only on the left arm · Wait an hour or so after you wake up in the morning to measure your blood pressure · Do not measure your blood pressure when you are uncomfortable, cold, anxious, stressed or in pain · Wait at least two hours after a big meal, and at least half an hour after drinking coffee or smoking · A full bladder can increase blood pressure slightly; make sure you use the washroom first. · Rest and relax for 5 minutes before taking a measurement · Sit in a chair that supports your back and beside a table that can support your arm at heart level. · Keep your legs and ankles uncrossed · Place the cuff on bare skin, not over clothing · Tight, rolled sleeves can result in an inaccurate reading · Sit comfortable, and avoid talking while taking your blood pressure · Take a second measurement two to three minutes after the first reading to check accuracy · If the blood pressure monitor does not save readings, record the measurement right away in a journal · Single or first day home blood pressure values should not be considered - News Canada Morning Sickness? Breastfeeding Concerns? Back Pain? Pregnancy and Postnatal Nutrition questions? Chiropractic care has been shown to: Healthy Seniors: Control, don't ignore joint pain Many of us assume that joint pain is a normal part of aging and therefore, the pain is likely here to stay. Nothing could be further from the truth, say medical professionals, especially with the advancement in treatment options that include exercise, foods, and alternative dietary supplements. The first step however is to accurately diagnose the source of your pain. It might surprise you to learn that many people try to ignore it. For example, research data reveals that one in five people say they do have chronic pain (like that caused by arthritis) but nearly half say they don't know what's causing it. Many people wait hoping the body will heal itself, but that's no remedy. If you do have joint pain, it's important for a doctor to examine you and tell you why. Treatments range from improving life quality, to medication, to surgery--and preferably in that order. Here are the most important initial steps you can take to control joint pain: 1. Maintain a healthy weight. Experts say that losing as little as 11 pounds can cut the risk of osteoarthritis of the knee by 50%. A healthy body weight reduces the small tears that break down cartilage. 2. Exercise with guidance. Pain victims often get caught in a vicious cycle: aching joints prevent them from exercising, which in turn causes joints to weaken and deteriorate further. Instead, work with a therapist to develop the right program for you. This will likely include low- or no-impact aerobic exercises (swimming, walking, cycling, dancing) along with a strength building routine (with light weights) plus stretching and relaxation exercises. To manage pain and swelling, apply ice to your joints after exercise. 3. Eat beneficial foods. Top of the list is fish with omega-3 fatty acids. In addition, research shows that vitamin D may help protect your joints with its antiinflammatory effect ­ and natural health products like Cell-fx are a soluble source of chondroitin sulphate, a critical building block of cartilage. Professional athletes are known to use this daily supplement to help reduce bone and joint pain. 4. Wear correct, comfortable footwear. Bone experts advise that every shoe should have an extra layer of protective padding. 5. Quit smoking. Research shows that besides disease, smoking has an effect on both bone health and on an individual's response to treatment. - News Canada Did You Know ... · decrease low back pain, sciatica and headaches · shorten labour times by at least 24% · reduce chance of back labour · improve morning sickness · improve sinus congestion And allow you to enjoy your pregnancy and delivery to the fullest! Dr. Jenna Davis Family Chiropractor/ Acupuncturist Dr. Jenna Davis 905.845.2291 Alliance Healthcare Professionals 232 South Service Rd. E, Oakville, ON L6J 2X5 www.alliancehealthcare.ca drjennadavis@gmail.com Personal Growth and Redecision Centre ` A Course in Wellness for Women KNEE, HEEL & ARCH PAIN ARE TREATABLE! Understanding the source of your foot and knee pain could lead to permanent relief. Book a consultation today! 10 Individual Sessions If you want to know... ­ why you repeat negative patterns over and over ­ why you feel sad without knowing the reasons ­ how to ask for your needs to be met ­ how to be more assertive ­ how to place a higher value on yourself Register Now Spring & Summer Sessions Space Limited Georgetown Oakville SALIMA KASSAM REG. CHIROPODIST NEW LOCATION Free Parking in front of office We Treat: · Diabetic Foot Care · General Care · Custom Made Foot Orthotics P Covered by most insurance companies. 905-877-2765 905-338-2882 728 Burloak Drive 905-632-1414 www.footandhealthclinic.com