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Category: The Alliance Blog S2 Q4

Migraine Awareness Month: Understanding Migraines in Children and Teens

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June is Migraine Awareness Month, a good time to highlight the impact of migraines and support those who suffer from them, especially the youngest among us. At Alliance Chiropractic, serving Ancaster and the greater Hamilton area, we see many patients suffering from migraines. We want to share how common these disabling headaches are in children and teens, how they affect daily life, and how chiropractic care can help manage pain.

How Common are Migraines?

Migraines are surprisingly common in young people. In fact, Migraine Canada reports that migraines are the third most common disease in the world, more common than asthma or diabetes. Here are statistics that may surprise you:

  • 12% of the global population
  • 15% of women
  • 8% of men
  • 10% of children
  • 25% of Canadian households
  • 1–2% live with chronic migraines, a severe form that causes symptoms 15 or more days each month.

With a 12% prevalence rate, meaning that 12 out of 100 people suffer from them, migraines are more common than:

  • Asthma: 8%
  • Diabetes: 7%
  • Epilepsy: 1%
  • Multiple Sclerosis: 2 per 1000 people

Migraines are not just an adult problem – they affect young people too.

Migraines in Children and Teens: A Hidden Struggle

Many people think migraines only affect adults, but kids can be affected too. According to Migraine Canada, about 10% of children experience migraines before puberty, and these headaches can be just as disruptive for young people as they are for adults. 

For children and adolescents, migraines can have a huge impact on their lives. Effects include:

  • Missed school and falling behind in lessons
  • Inability to participate in sports and social activities
  • Difficulty with concentration and ongoing fatigue
  • Feeling stressed and anxious about when the next migraine will strike

For children, having the support of parents, teachers, and healthcare providers is critical. Understanding that migraines are more than ‘just a headache’ can help ensure they get the care and treatment they need.

How does Chiropractic Care Help with Headaches?

Chiropractic care cannot cure migraines but it can help patients manage the pain and frequency of headaches. The Canadian Chiropractic Association details three different types of headaches including:

  • Migraine headaches: Pain that often affects one side of the head, and is accompanied by nausea and sensitivity to light or sound
  • Tension-type headaches: A band-like pressure around the head that can also contribute to migraines
  • Cervicogenic headaches: Headaches that originate from the neck but are felt in the head or face. Family history, stress, and neck stiffness (think text neck!) are common causes.

Many patients seek chiropractic care to help their headache symptoms. Treatment can include:

  • Manual therapy to reduce muscle tension
  • Soft tissue therapy and modalities like electrical stimulation or acupuncture
  • Rehabilitation exercises to improve posture and flexibility
  • Education on lifestyle changes and triggers

Collaboration with other healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive care

When is the Right Time to Consider Chiropractic Care?

If your child is missing out on school or play-time, or is experiencing symptoms that disrupt sleep or other ‘being a kid’ activities, it might be time to consider chiropractic care. Some headaches can signal more serious problems, but chiropractic care can help identify root causes and provide pain symptom relief. 

It’s important to watch for the following symptoms and seek medical attention if headaches:

  • Come on suddenly and severely
  • Follow a head injury
  • Accompany fever, neck stiffness, weakness, numbness, or trouble speaking

If your child’s headaches are persistent and affect how they feel and function,  chiropractic care offers symptom relief and guidance on when to pursue additional treatment.

Supporting Kids Affected by Migraines

Kids suffering from migraines need pain relief and support. 

Migraine Canada offers extensive resources to help young patients make sense of their headache experiences, plus support for parents, teachers, and others who regularly interact with children and youth, to help them ensure children and young people keep learning, growing, and making the most of their experiences despite migraines.

A Final Word on Migraines in Children and Teens

Migraines can be overwhelming for children and their families, but resources and support are available. At Alliance Chiropractic, we work with patients of all ages to reduce the impact of headaches and migraines on daily life. Chiropractic care can help ensure our loved ones continue to thrive despite migraines.

Contact us if you have questions regarding this blog or any other health or wellness concern.

Want to stay updated on health information? Subscribe to our quarterly newsletter here.

Information for this blog was sourced from: Migraine Canada, Migraine Canada’s Migraine in Children Resource, Canadian Chiropractic Association

 

Safe Cycling: How to Keep Kids and Families Safe this Summer

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June is Bike Month in Ontario so we’re shining the spotlight on cycling as a fantastic way to enjoy summer adventures with your family. At Alliance Chiropractic, we know that staying safe and avoiding injury is as important as having fun. If you want to make the most of every ride, then this article is for you.

We’ll explore the benefits of cycling, safe cycling tips, and how chiropractic care can keep you moving confidently all summer (and beyond).

The Many Benefits of Cycling

Cycling is a great way to explore the community this summer and provides many different health benefits. Here are a few reasons to add biking to your list of fun summer activities:

  • Improves cardiovascular health
  • Increases lower body strength and joint health
  • Boosts your mood and mental well-being
  • Strengthens coordination and balance
  • Enhances social bonds by offering shared experiences

And as a low impact form of exercise, cycling is perfect for every age. 

Cycling to Help the Environment (and You!)

Cycling also benefits our environment, helping reduce carbon emissions while promoting active transportation. MacMaster University has compiled a list of resources for city of Hamilton residents which can be found here.

Safe Cycling for Kids and Families

With three out of four Canadian children owning a bicycle, you can expect to see many of them enjoying the warmer months out and about on their bikes. And while bike safety is essential for everyone, here are a few kid-specific safe cycling reminders:

  • Proper helmet use: Ensure helmets fit snugly, sit level on the forehead, and are always buckled
  • Wear the right clothing: Bright colors, reflective stripes, and front and rear lights make cyclists easier to see, even during daylight hours
  • Avoid busy streets: Stick to quieter roads and bike paths to minimize risks
  • Use the buddy system: Always ride with a friend
  • Know basic first aid: Learn how to respond to common injuries such as falls, fractures, and cuts—training from organizations like the Red Cross can be especially helpful.

The Canada Safety Council reminds us that cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers. Obey traffic rules, use hand signals, and be ready for unpredictable hazards, like a car door opening or a pedestrian crossing unexpectedly.

For a detailed guide on handling skills, road safety, and bike laws, check out Cycling Skills: Ontario’s Guide to Safe Cycling. Find a downloadable reference on how to become a safer and more confident rider here: Ontario.ca.

How Chiropractic Care Can Keep You Riding

Concerned that all that pedaling may leave your neck and back feeling tight? 

Or that an older injury is going to flare up and prevent you from enjoying your ride? 

Or is an existing injury preventing you from taking advantage of prime cycling weather now?

You don’t have to put up with that. 

Chiropractic care can help reduce cycling related pain and injury. Ask us how we:

  • Help you ride more efficiently (by improving spinal alignment and posture) 
  • Warm-up safely before you ride (with stretching guidance)
  • Promote post-ride recovery (with cool-down exercises/stretches) 
  • Relieve muscle tension and sore joints (address problem areas)
  • Minimize risk of injury (by improving mobility and flexibility)
  • Keep you riding all season (strengthening exercises and maintenance care)

Make the most of Every Ride

For more ways to stay comfortable and strong on your bike, check out our previous blog “Cycling Fitness Tips to Enhance Your Ride”. You’ll learn how to:

  • Choose the right bike frame and fit
  • Adjust seat height, handlebar position, and pedal alignment
  • Strengthen your legs and core for improved riding

Prevent injury before, during, and after your ride

Your Next Steps for a Safer Ride

Whether you’re cruising through the neighbourhood with the kids, or challenging yourself on one of the beautiful trails in Ancaster or the greater Hamilton area, our goal is to keep you riding safely and injury-free. Reach out to our team if you have questions or concerns about treating or preventing cycling related injuries. 

Make the most of the cycling season, and enjoy the fresh air and perspective that comes with each ride.

Contact us if you have any questions regarding this blog or any other health or wellness concern.

Want to stay updated on health information? Subscribe to our quarterly newsletter here.

Information for this blog was sourced from: Ontario.ca RedCross.ca, CanadaSafetyCouncil, OntarioParks.ca, Wellness.McMaster.ca, Our Blog Library

Summer Safety: A Brain Injury Primer for Canadian Parents

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Brain Injury Statistics in Canada: What Places our Kids at Risk

June is Brain Injury Awareness Month and these Canadian statistics help us understand why:

  • 1.5 million Canadians (4% of our population) have an acquired brain injury (ABI)
  • Every three minutes, someone acquires a traumatic brain injury (TBI) 
  • The most common reasons for TBI hospitalizations and emergency room visits:
    • Falls, for children under 5 years
    • Sports and recreational activities, for 5-19 year olds 

That’s why we’re spotlighting brain injury awareness. We want families in Ancaster and the greater Hamilton area to keep cheering on their favourite athletes, whether they’re competing or playing for fun.  

Different Types of Brain Injuries

Brain injuries can affect anyone at any time. Knowing the signs and symptoms to watch for can make a real difference with recovery. 

An acquired brain injury (ABI) refers to damage to the brain that occurs after birth and is not related to congenital or degenerative conditions such as Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, or Multiple Sclerosis. ABIs can be:

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): damage from external events like falls, motor vehicle collisions, or sports injuries.

  • Non-Traumatic Brain Injuries: damage from medical issues like strokes, oxygen deprivation (anoxia), meningitis, or encephalitis.

Source: Ontario Brain Injury Association

What you Need to Know about Concussions

Concussions are one of the most significant public health concerns in Canada. Considered a mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI), approximately 200,000 concussions occur every year, mainly affecting Canadian children and youth. Because 75% – 95% of TBIs do not involve a loss of consciousness or obvious neurological signs, many go unnoticed and are not reported. 

Brain injuries place a lot of pressure on Canadian families and the health care system. In addition to time and money for treatment and rehabilitation, consider the mental and emotional toll on patients and their caregivers, as well as the economic impact of lost work time and productivity.

The Physical, Cognitive, and Emotional Symptoms to Watch for

Whether it’s a blow to the head in a soccer game or a biking accident, brain injuries can have a wide range of symptoms. According to the Ontario Brain Injury Association, parents should watch for these signs:

Physical Symptoms:

  • Balance and coordination problems
  • Difficulty walking or moving limbs
  • Light and sound sensitivity
  • Ringing in the ears
  • Sleep difficulties and fatigue
  • Chronic headaches and dizziness
  • Changes in vision, hearing, or taste
  • Swallowing difficulties
  • Increased sensitivity to caffeine and alcohol
  • Possible seizure activity

Cognitive and Communication Challenges:

  • Poor concentration and memory problems
  • Slowed thinking and difficulty making decisions
  • Trouble keeping track of multiple things
  • Difficulty speaking, reading, or writing
  • Problems expressing ideas clearly

Emotional and Behavioural Changes:

  • Depression, emotional outbursts, or irritability
  • Personality changes and social withdrawal
  • Impulsive actions and poor coping skills
  • Grief and a sense of loss

Functional Impacts:

  • Difficulty with self-care, household tasks, and driving
  • Challenges returning to work or hobbies

This list is not exhaustive; parents should be mindful of any changes in their child’s behavior or functioning.

How Chiropractic Care Supports Brain Injury Recovery

Chiropractic care is not a replacement for medical treatment but can play a crucial role in managing symptoms and supporting recovery. At Alliance Chiropractic, we help patients manage the physical symptoms associated with brain injuries such as:

  • Concussions: chiropractors can check and diagnose concussions, provide informed referrals, and work with other health professionals to ensure optimal care. Find more details at the Ontario Chiropractic Association website.

     

  • Whiplash: is commonly seen following sports or car accidents. Chiropractors can help improve mobility, reduce headaches, neck, and back pain, improve alignment, and reduce injury related tension. Learn more about care options for brain injuries here.   

     

Chiropractors are trained in neurological assessment and emergency care, and can recognize the signs of brain injuries, helping ensure timely, evidence-informed care. Our team at Alliance Chiropractic includes a wide set of health care providers with experience treating sports injuries and related symptoms.

Why Early Detection Matters

In Ontario, Rowan’s Law underscores the importance of early detection and proper management of concussions. Chiropractors can perform immediate on-field assessments during sports events, providing crucial evaluations to help athletes avoid long-term complications (Ontario Chiropractic Association).

As summer sports and outdoor activities continue, remember that early detection and action can make all the difference. If you suspect a brain injury in yourself or your child, seek a thorough assessment immediately. At Alliance Chiropractic, we are here to provide expert guidance and care for all your health and wellness concerns.

Preventing Brain Injuries: Practical Tips from Alliance Chiropractic

At Alliance Chiropractic, we believe that prevention is just as important as treatment. In our previous blog, “Preventing Brain Injuries: Essential Tips and Chiropractic Care“, we shared proactive steps you can take to reduce the risk of brain injuries during sports and daily activities. These include:

  • Wearing protective gear like helmets during biking and contact sports
  • Avoiding reckless play and practicing safe techniques
  • Improving home safety to prevent falls
  • Regularly checking your balance and vision to stay steady and alert
  • Driving safely and using seat belts at all times

     

While these prevention strategies can help minimize the likelihood of injury for you and your loved ones, it is not possible to eliminate all risks. If you find yourself unsure of next steps related to ongoing or new symptoms, contact our office.

Support and Resources for those Living with a Brain Injury:

Living with a brain injury can be a challenge, but you do not have to do it alone. Brain Injury Canada offers a wealth of resources and tips to help you or a loved one adapt and thrive following an injury. Visit Living with a Brain Injury to learn more about available support and community programs.

Contact us if you have any questions regarding this blog or any other health or wellness concern.

Want to stay updated on health information? Subscribe to our quarterly newsletter here.

Information for this blog was sourced from the Ontario Brain Injury Association, Canadian Chiropractic Association, Ontario Chiropractic Association, and Parc of Ontario.