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The Positive Effects of Bowen Therapy

Bowen therapy, also known as the Bowen technique, is still being researched today. However, it has been used to treat various disorders related to lower back pain, autoimmune diseases and even Parkinson’s disease since its inception in the 50s.

Bowen therapy is a physical manipulation technique used to treat various problems in the body that cause disorders and diseases.

The technique deals with the root cause instead of its symptoms. The approach by Bowen therapists is to gently use the forefingers and thumbs to massage the precise pressure points of the body. The technique deals with the connective soft tissues of the body, known as fascia tissues.

Bowen therapy helps stimulate blood circulation in the body, jumpstarting the process of self-healing in the nervous system.

Stress: Stress can tighten muscles in the body and make them stiff. When an individual is stressed out, they feel fatigued, worn out and sore. Stress is damaging to the nerves in the body and can lead to permanent nerve damage, as well as loss of brain cells by creating free radicals.

A recent study and survey shows that managing stress is still a problem for young adults.

Bowen therapy has shown to improve blood circulation within the body. By gently manipulating muscles, stress is alleviated and symptoms of pain are reduced. Sufferers of migraine will find relief because of the stimulation of nerves in the brain and nervous system.

Bowen therapy has been known to reduce symptoms of several conditions, such as:

1. Sciatica

2. Autoimmune diseases

3. Parkinson’s disease

4. Depression

5. Anxiety

6. Asthma

7. Lower back pain

When the mind is distressed, the body automatically stops functioning. By stimulating the blood flow of the body and ‘rebooting’ the nervous system, Bowen therapy has been able to help with stress and pain management.

During the massage therapy sessions, the therapist will pause the therapy for a few minutes (usually 2-4 minutes). This helps the body respond to the therapy and become accustomed to it.

After the session is over, the patient will be asked to drink a glass of water. This helps hydrate the tissues in the body and helps effectively treat nerves and muscles. Those with asthma will also find therapeutic relief as blood circulating to the organs will assist in breathing freely.

If you are looking for massage or back pain treatment in North Brisbane, contact Brisbane Livewell Clinic. 

A Stab in the Back: How Bowen Therapy Helps Lower Back Pain

Getting up in the morning can become difficult when you suffer from lower back pain. It can leave you paralysed and in agonising pain.

Simple tasks such as driving to work, going to the bathroom or sitting at the dinner table can become difficult.

Lower back pain does not only have physical symptoms, it can lead to damaged relationships as well. Those with lower back pain can become prone to outbursts, often taking out their frustration on their loved ones.

According to a report by Australian Institute of Health and Welfare, around 3 million Australians (14 percent) have reported having lower back pain.  

Lower back problems can be caused by a variety factors—the most common being injury or muscle strain. Lifting heavy objects or weights can cause injury to the spine or result in muscle strain.

Sometimes, lower back pain can be a sign of an autoimmune disease or something much worse, such as spinal cancer. However, this is rare and in most cases, lower back pain is not something that is alarming.  

What is Bowen Therapy?

Bowen therapy, also known as the Bowen technique, is a technique that works on the soft connective tissue (known as fascia) of the body. It is applied at precise points of the body.

 The technique involves using the forefingers and thumbs to massage the pressure points in a gentle manner. It is used to help the body go into self-healing mode to naturally treat different conditions.

How Does Bowen Therapy Help?     

Bowen therapy helps promote blood circulation.

When blood flows through the organs of the body, the mind starts relaxing. The patient is able to breathe more freely and stress is alleviated.

Tension from the muscles is released and symptoms of anxiety, fatigue and pain are reduced, leaving the patient feeling light.

Between the therapeutic massage, the Bowen therapist may pause or leave the room for 2-4 minutes. This allows the patient to respond to the treatment.

Bowen therapy is a complementary method. It is not a cure, but physical manipulation that is used to reduce symptoms of various disorders and to manage stress. It has no known side effects and can be performed on young adults, as well as those in their 50s.

If you are looking for a Bowen therapist in Brisbane, a full body massage or remedial massage, book an appointment with Brisbane Livewell Clinic today.

Fertility and Acupuncture: How Acupuncture Helps

Fertility has become a common issue amongst couples. About 1 in 6 couples in Australia have trouble conceiving pregnancy. After a year of trying, if you do not become pregnant, you do not need to panic. Most women become pregnant into their second year. However, if after 2 years of trying, you still have issues becoming pregnant, it’s time to look into treatments.

Infertility in Women: There are several reasons why some women cannot conceive. Infertility can be caused by disorders and diseases affecting the ovaries. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one such disorder that affects fertility in women. PCOS causes cysts to develop on the ovaries, increases androgens (male hormones) and insulin levels. Another disorder is endometriosis, which results in the endometrial tissue to line outside the womb, instead of inside it.

Infertility in Men: Infertility in men can occur due to genetic diseases, such as, chromosomal abnormality or cystic fibrosis. It can also be because of anti-sperm antibodies (where antibodies attack the sperm), poor production of sperm or sperm DNA fragmentation. Sometimes, the cause can be due to hormonal imbalance.

A fertility specialist will be able to tell you the exact cause. Treatments can vary, ranging from surgery to taking medicine. However, if you do want like the idea of medicines, there are natural treatments.

How Does Acupuncture Help?

According to a study, when combined with fertility treatments used in the west, acupuncture can increase chances of fertility by at least 26%. Statistics show that 40 percent of fertility issues are attributed to problems with production of sperm.  

 Acupuncturists use fine needles, which are smaller than sewing needles, to stimulate pressure points in the body. This is done by gently inserting the needles under the skin’s surface, away from the nerves.

Acupuncture therapy reduces stress in the body, promoting blood circulation. When the flow of blood is increased, the body goes into self-healing mode. This helps bring balance to the nervous system because there is increase in the flow of blood to the organs in the body.

This also helps normalize hormones. Hormone imbalance can also result in infertility as it can affect the ovulation process; this is not only beneficial for women but for men as well. Therefore, acupuncture therapy can be beneficial for those who are seeking natural fertility treatments. There is a fear amongst couples that acupuncture can cause side effects. This is in fact, not true. Acupuncture has zero side effects and instead helps provide relief from stress, anxiety and releases serotonin, a neurotransmitter that is responsible for the feelings of happiness.

Book an appointment for acupuncture today with Brisbane Livewell Clinic.

Understanding Kinesiology

Kinesiology is a non-invasive energy therapy. Originating from ancient Chinese medicine, Kinesiology helps balance the body’s energy levels.
We experience different types of physical and psychological issues, such as anxiety, insomnia, etc. With the use of advanced muscle testing and monitoring techniques, Kinesiology restores the healing process.
It also helps understand and treat the root cause of our physical and mental health problems. This is because many of the issues we experience are connected to an emotion. It is pivotal to release our trapped emotions in order to let go of the pain we feel.

What can it treat? 

Kinesiology can help treat an array of health issues, such as:
• Chronic pain (muscle pain, back pain, etc.)
• Sciatica
• Bad or improper posture
• Headaches
• Anxiety, stress and depression
• Fear
• Insomnia
• Major life changes
• Nutrition issues

How it works 

Kinesiology entails the use of many gentle muscle testing techniques. The primary purpose of using these techniques is to determine a person’s main stressors.
Depending on an individual’s health needs and condition, a Kinesiologist can determine suitable treatment.

What to expect from a session 

In a nutshell, your Kinesiologist will discuss your condition during initial session. They will ask you a series of questions, primarily focusing on your health, lifestyle, emotional state and diet. This will help them understand why you came for the treatment and determine correct course of action for you. They will also demonstrate muscle testing for you.
At the same time, they will set a few goals for you to achieve. Your Kinesiologist and you will work together to help you move forward. This includes doing some exercises at home.

How many sessions are needed?

When it comes to the number of sessions, each individual’s case is different. Some people may need one session, while others more than one.
Depending on your exact condition, your Kinesiologist can tell you about the number of sessions you will require.

That being said, you will notice positive results immediately. In fact, many people feel lighter after the first session.
For Kinesiology in Brisbane, get in touch with Brisbane Livewell Clinic. Located in Chermside, North Brisbane, Brisbane Livewell Clinic is a complete and trusted clinic to restore holistic health.
The clinic offers an array of natural treatments, such as acupuncture, naturopathy, massages and much more. Brisbane Livewell’s practitioners have years of knowledge and experience in the natural health industry.

Sports Massage For Athletes – Benefits And Effects

Whether you are male or female, sports massage is necessary for all athletes. Sports massage offers a plethora of physical, physiological and psychological benefits to them.
It’s a well-known fact that athletes are highly prone to injury. Sports massage can help prevent injuries by keeping an athlete’s body in top shape. Moreover, it reduces muscular and body pain after vigorous physical activities.

Simply put, sports massage is an effective form of therapy. It plays an important role in an athlete’s daily routine.
Here are the main physical, physiological and psychological effects of sports massage on athletes:

Physical impact 

Stretching: Sports massage entails stretching of tissues. This helps release any pressure build-up.
Tissue elasticity: Sports massage improves tissue elasticity. Most athletes’ tissues become hard because of training. Massage helps stretch the tissues, thereby enhancing an athlete’s performance.
Tissue permeability: Sports massage allows fluids and nutrients to pass through the body. This occurs when the pores in tissue membranes open.
As a result, this eliminates toxins from the body. Moreover, it enables the muscles to take up nutrients.
Blood circulation:  Sports massage enhances the blood circulation to vital organs. Also, since it focuses on stretching, nutrients can pass through the body easily.

Physiological impact 

Pain: Sports massage is a convenient way to manage muscle tension and pain. A powerful sports massage helps release endorphins, which helps eliminate pain.
Relaxation: Deep massage stimulates blood circulation and heat throughout the body. As a result, this stimulates the mechanoreceptors, thereby resulting in relaxation.

Psychological impact 

Anxiety and stress: Massage is a great form of healing and relaxation. It is one of the best tools for reducing stress, anxiety and other negative emotions.
Energy: Last but not least, a sports massage is just what an athlete needs before a major event. Deep massage, which includes a lot of brisk movements, produces energized feeling.
If you are searching for the best sports massage clinic in Brisbane, contact Brisbane Livewell Clinic. Based in Chermside, North Brisbane, Brisbane Livewell Clinic is a reliable clinic committed to restoring your holistic health.

Besides sports massage, the clinic offers other types of massage, such as remedial massage, full body massage and pregnancy massage.
Brisbane Livewell Clinic has over 30 years of extensive experience in alternative, natural healthcare treatments. The clinic specialises in acupuncture, naturopathy, kinesiology, weight loss treatments and other forms of therapy.

How To Choose The Right Acupuncturist

Can’t find the right acupuncturist for yourself? Choosing an acupuncturist can be a challenging task. You need an expert whom you can trust. After all, your health is at stake.

So, how do you pick the best one? Here are a few factors that will help you find the right acupuncturist:

Credentials and license

It’s mandatory for acupuncturists to maintain proper license. Make sure you check their license and insurance.

Equally important is to choose a trained, qualified acupuncturist. Discuss their education, training and experience beforehand.

Area of speciality

Some acupuncturists treat types of conditions, while others specialise in certain areas. Based on your health issue, choose the one who is an expert in treating your condition. Ask if a prospective acupuncturist has the experience and expertise in treating your condition. 

Price

The cost of treatment varies and mainly depends on a practitioner’s qualification, experience and clinical location.

Inquire about treatment cost in detail. This includes charges for initial treatments and follow-ups. Also remember to ask whether they accept health insurance. If not, discuss their mode of payment. 

Number of treatments

How many treatments will you need? And how often will you have to visit them?

Keep in mind, an acupuncturist can give you an estimate during the consultation session. Thus, you will have to see them in person.

Depending on how severe your condition is, they can tell you the number of treatments you will require. If you need more than a single session, you will have to visit them for a few weeks or months. Therefore, consider their location and schedule before making your decision.

Personal rapport

Do you feel comfortable around the acupuncturist? Having an open, honest patient-acupuncturist relationship is the key to successful results.

This is why it is crucial to meet a potential acupuncturist in person. Do they listen to you carefully? Do they address your concerns? Are they friendly and approachable? In addition, do they return your calls promptly? Take note of these details.

Facility

Last but not least, take the time out to check out a potential acupuncturist’s facility. Is it clean and modern? Do you feel fully relaxed?

A personal visit is the best way to get an idea of the clinic’s professionalism.

Use these tips to pick an acupuncturist for your condition. If you’re looking for the best acupuncture in Brisbane, contact Brisbane Livewell Clinic for consultation.

With over 3 decades of experience, Brisbane Livewell specialises in natural, holistic healthcare. The health care clinic’s acupuncturists offer complete treatment for many conditions, including back and shoulder pain, fertility issues and more. 

Major Differences Between Psoriasis And Eczema

Ever had the sudden urge to scratch your skin, an itch that just wouldn’t go away, no matter what you do? It happens quite often to people suffering from eczema and psoriasis—two complicated skin conditions.

That’s not all. The two conditions have many differences but major symptoms are the same. Both display red patches and result in itchy, irritated skin. This makes it hard even for doctors to diagnose and treat the condition.

Thankfully though, neither condition is contagious. That doesn’t make living with one any easier. But noting a few important differences can help the diagnosis.

1.    Time of onset

Eczema mostly occurs in babies and children. The symptoms often become less severe with age. The condition can also occur in adults, though it is not very common.

On the other hand, psoriasis can occur at any time. However, it is more common between ages 15 and 30. The condition is also common in older adults, between 50 and 60 years of age.

2.    Other signs and symptoms

While the red, itchy skin is most common sign of both these conditions, there are a number of other symptoms too.

In eczema, the skin may appear dry and cracked. Severe cases can also lead to skin blistering or may cause discoloration. Fluid-filled bumps can also appear in some cases. These symptoms can occur anywhere on the skin including the face, scalp, chest, back, neck, ankles, wrist and other softer regions.

Psoriasis causes thick patches which are usually red or white in colour. Patches may also appear silvery and scaly. These too can appear anywhere on the skin but are common on the outsides of elbows and knees.

These patches may also show up on lower back and scalp. It can also cause pitting of nails. Nails can potentially crumble and even fall off due to the condition.

3.    Triggers

Eczema flare-ups usually occur because of certain soaps, detergents, foods, viruses, dry air, and environmental allergens such as pet hair and dust. Stress as well as sudden temperature changes can also cause a flare-up.

Major psoriasis triggers include stress, medications, dry air and particular illnesses. Scratches and sunburns can also trigger the condition.

Treatments are different too!

Treatment mostly includes topical creams and lotions. Oral medication may also be prescribed for psoriasis.

Eczema can mostly be dealt by avoiding items that cause flare-ups. A moderate diet can also help manage the condition. If you’re having difficulty in dealing with eczema, try holistic health approaches. Naturopathic treatment at Brisbane Livewell Clinic can decrease the flare-ups, helping you to lead a normal life.

Are You Suffering From Muscle Ache or Stiff Joints?

Are You Suffering From Muscle Ache or Stiff..

Differentiating Between Perimenopause, Menopause And Post-Menopause

Menopause is a normal stage in every woman’s life. Yet, most women do not have much information about it. Does it start in the 40s? What are its symptoms?

To put it simply, natural menopause takes place in the following stages:

Perimenopause or Menopause Transition:

In the majority of cases, a woman gets perimenopause or menopause transition in her 40s. However, it can start in the 30s as well.

Perimenopause starts almost eight to ten years before menopause. This is the time when the ovaries create less estrogens. It lasts until menopause. During the last stage of perimenopause, women start to experience menopause symptoms. Keep in mind, the menstrual cycles still occur at this stage. Therefore, women can get pregnant.

Menopause:

Menopause is that stage when a woman’s ovaries stop producing eggs and estrogens. In addition, she no longer has her monthly menstrual cycle. In other words, she is not fertile any more.

Menopause is a sign of aging and typically occurs between late 40s to early 50s. But, some women may experience it earlier due to surgical intervention, such as from chemotherapy.

Here are some signs of menopause:

• Hot flashes
• Vaginal dryness
• Night sweats
• Insomnia
• Irritability and mood swings
• Mild depression
• Dry skin or mouth
• Headaches
• Weight gain
• Hair loss or thinning

Postmenopause:

Postmenopause follows menopause. It is when a woman has not had her menstrual cycle for a year.

Most menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes stop at this stage. That being said, women have a high risk of developing health conditions, such as heart disease due to low estrogen. Medication can help treat some of these conditions. But, it is important to talk to a doctor before taking any medication. 

The possibility of becoming pregnant is nonexistent at this stage. For those not wanting to become pregnant, the use of birth control until menopause helps. On the other hand, it is possible to have a baby during perimenopause. There are many advanced fertility-enhancing techniques that can increase your chances of getting pregnant.

For more information on pregnancy related issues, check out Brisbane Livewell Clinic. Specialising in alternative form of medicine, the clinic offers a wide range of services, including naturopathy, bowen therapy and fertility acupuncture in Brisbane.

Brisbane Livewell Clinic focuses on a holistic approach to health. All practitioners provide personalised plan and professional support to help their patients get back on track. 

5 Ways Acupuncture Can Help Relieve Stress

Stress is a natural part of our existence. Regardless of a person’s gender or age, everyone experiences some level of stress in their daily routines. What causes stress to one person may not cause to another. In other word, the cause of stress typically varies from person to person.

While short-lived stress can be beneficial, it is long-term, chronic stress that can cause serious problems. This is especially true if it negatively interferes with an individual’s ability to perform basic everyday tasks.

Chronic stress can result in severe anxiety and depression, if it is not treated in time.

Here are 5 ways acupuncture therapy can help relieve your stress levels:

#1 – It slows the production of stress hormones

Acupuncture is a great technique to reduce anxiety and stress. According to a study published by Georgetown University, the Chinese therapy slows the production of stress hormones. It minimizes the stress protein, thereby reducing your stress levels.

# 2 – It improves sleep

Sleep and stress are interrelated. Your stress levels will aggravate if you don’t get a good night’s sleep. A report published in the Journal of Neuropsychiatry and Clinical Neurosciences reveals that acupuncture increases nocturnal melatonin and reduces anxiety and insomnia. As a result, the alternative therapy can help reduce your stress levels.

# 3 – It helps treat chronic pain

Any kind of chronic pain, including back pain, causes stress. Acupuncture is widely used to reduce chronic pain, such as headaches, neck pain, shoulder pain and back pain.

# 4 – It helps shift thinking patterns

Need to improve your thinking patterns? Acupuncture is a popular technique for shifting thinking patterns. It can also improve a patient’s memory and concentration. Some people find it easier to opt for healthy lifestyle changes due to the technique.

# 5 – It balances mind-body awareness

Acupuncture enhances your mind-body awareness. It boosts the flow of energy within the body. With more energy and a deep awareness, you will feel more productive, efficient and less stressed.

While acupuncture an effective technique for reducing stress, it’s important to consult a trained acupuncturist for it. Brisbane Livewell Clinic offers the best acupuncture treatment in Brisbane. The clinic’s experienced acupuncturists spend time with each patient to find a clear diagnosis in initial consultation. They use a variety of diagnostic tools for diagnosis. Thereafter, the clinic’s acupuncturists stimulate the acupuncture points using conventional methods, alongside others such as moxibustion, cupping, laser therapy, electro-stimulation and massage. And that’s not all. Brisbane Livewell’s natural healthcare practitioners develop customised recovery plans for each client. 

Exploring The Types Of Neuralgia

Neuralgia is a chronic pain condition. It is a sudden, sharp pain that feels like an electric shock. One can experience the pain anywhere in the body. The main cause of neuralgia-related pain is a damaged nerve.

Although damaged nerves can affect any body part, in the majority of cases, it affects the face or neck. In addition, neuralgia has different causes and forms.

Causes

Regardless of type, neuralgia occurs due to a damaged nerve. The myelin is a coating that protects and ensures proper functioning of nerves. Damage to myelin causes neuralgia pain. Here are the main factors that cause damage to myelin:

·        Infection – HIV and syphilis enhances the risk of neuralgia.

·        Diabetes – Excess glucose can cause harm to myelin.

·        Multiple sclerosis – Weakening of myelin causes multiple sclerosis. A person with multiple sclerosis may experience neuralgia pain.

·        Pressure on nerves – Any kind of pressure, such as from a blood vessel or bone, on the nerves may lead to neuralgia pain.

Types

The following are the main types of neuralgia:

Postherpetic neuralgia

Postherpetic neuralgia takes place because of shingle complications. It affects the skin and nerve fibres, wherever shingles occurred. Postherpetic neuralgia can be extremely painful. The pain can be burning and persistent. In addition, it can last for many months and years.

Usually, the pain occurs after the shingle rashes disappear. However, sometimes the pain can take place before the rash.

Postherpetic neuralgia pain can be reduced over time, with the right treatment.

Trigeminal neuralgia

Trigeminal neuralgia affects the trigeminal nerve. This type of neuralgia causes a sharp sensation, from the face to the brain.

In addition, multiple sclerosis can cause the jolting pain. At the same time, it can also be due to a blood vessel putting pressure on the trigeminal nerve.

Trigeminal neuralgia can be excruciatingly painful. An individual may experience mild attacks initially, but it can progress. Also, it affects the face and is very common in the elderly.

Glossopharyngeal neuralgia

Although this type of neuralgia is not as common as postherpetic and trigeminal, it causes pain from the glossopharyngeal nerve. As the glossopharyngeal nerve is located in the throat, glossopharyngeal neuralgia affects the neck and throat.

Neuralgia pain can be long and unbearable. Hence, it is crucial to seek treatment as soon as possible. Acupuncture is a safe, natural and effective treatment to reduce neuralgia pain.

Brisbane Livewell Clinic provides acupuncture for neuralgia in Brisbane, Australia. The centre’s experienced and qualified acupuncturist specialises in treating patients with neuralgia, trigeminal neuralgia, occipital neuralgia, and post-herpetic neuralgia (after shingles). Click here to schedule a consultation.

5 Habits To Adopt For A Healthy Digestive System

A strong digestive system is the key to a long life. Since the digestive system converts the food we eat into energy and nutrients, it’s crucial to maintain a healthy digestive system.

Poor digestion can cause several issues, such as skin problems, gastric issues, fatigue and illness.

Want to know how to keep your digestive system functioning smoothly? Follow the tips mentioned below:

#1 Embrace a high fibre diet

Consume high-fibre diet. Fibre-rich foods, such as fresh fruits and vegetables, dried beans and whole grains provide many health benefits. Fibre helps regulate bowel movement and prevents constipation and other digestive conditions, such as haemorrhoids. In also helps achieve / maintain a healthy weight, lowers the risk of heart disease and controls blood sugar level.

Try to consume insoluble and soluble fibre. The main difference between both types is that insoluble fibre adds bulk to the stool, while soluble fibre draws in water and prevents watery stools.

For insoluble fibre, turn to wheat bran and vegetables. Meanwhile, good soluble fibre choices include nuts, oat bran, legumes and seeds.

#2 Stay hydrated

Water is critical for a well-functioning digestive system. Without enough water, your digestive system cannot dissolve fats and soluble fibre properly. As a result, these substances won’t pass through the body easily. Try to drink at least 8 glasses of water every day.

#3 Eat on schedule

Having frequent meals and snacks results in regular bowel movement. Adopt a regular eating schedule. Try to have three meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner) and snacks each day. Also, remember to chew your food slowly for better digestion.

Avoid eating when you’re stressed out. It can cause bloating. Take a few deep breaths to calm down your nervous system before you eat.

#4 Get moving

Don’t skip your daily exercise. Exercise promotes the flow of oxygen-rich blood throughout the body. It can benefit the digestive system by enhancing blood flow to the intestines and colon.

From crunches to brisk walk, do anything that gets you moving. But make sure you engage in regular exercise.

Equally important is to eliminate bad habits, such as smoking, excessive alcohol and caffeine. These substances can result in digestive problems, such as stomach ulcers.

#5 Naturopathy services

If you’re looking for natural solutions for digestive problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome, consider naturopathy. An alternative medicine, naturopathy entails the use of natural therapies, such as homeopathy to restore a weak digestive system. 

With an experience and experience of over 30 years, Brisbane Livewell Clinic provides naturopathy services to patients. Be it food allergies and intolerances or weight loss, you can count on their team to address different types of digestive issues.

Apart from naturopathy, Brisbane Livewell Clinic also offers massages, homeopathy and acupuncture in Brisbane, Australia. Get more information here.

The Best Part About Bowen Therapy is That it Treats the Whole Body

The Best Part About Bowen Therapy is That it

5 Myths About Menopause Which Need To Be Deconstructed

Menopause is a time in female reproductive cycle when menstruation stops. It usually occurs at an average age of 51. There are several symptoms and signs of menopause; however these vary among women.

It is true that menopause affects a woman’s health and body in a number of ways.

However, not all cases are bad. Several women enjoy a period of wellness and perfect health during the time.

We have decided to deconstruct the myths associated with menopause to help you understand what really happens during this period.

1.    Menopause begins after 50

The average age of menopause is 50 or 51. However, this does not mean that menopause begins at this age for all women. In fact, it may occur in your thirties as well as in your sixties. Perimenopause, the time when you still have period, but begin experiencing menopausal symptoms, can last up to thirteen years!

So yes, it is completely normal to experience menopause earlier or later than the average age.

2.    Everyone gains weight during menopause

Weight gain is natural during perimenopause and menopause. This is because the body’s hormones fluctuate during these periods. However, due to these fluctuations, it becomes difficult to control your weight gain. Hence, most women end up gaining at least a few pounds.

But this does not mean that weight gain can’t be prevented. A healthy diet and exercise can help you remain fit as well as maintain your weight.

3.    Sex drive decreases

Hormonal imbalance can have an effect on your sex drive. Some women lose interest in sexual activities. Additionally, almost 50% of women experience vaginal dryness. This can make intercourse painful. However, this is not always the case. So no, a decrease in libido is not certain. You can still enjoy intercourse after menopause.

4.    Hot flashes are the first sign

Hot flashes are not always the first sign but they are usually the first noticed sign of menopause. Why? Because other symptoms are so common, we hardly notice them. Other signs include fatigue, irregular periods, anxiety, depression, cravings among others.

5.    Hormone replacement therapy is the only solution

When it comes to your health during menopause, there are several options to choose from. Hormone replacement therapy is just one of them. It comes with its particular benefits and potential side effects.

You can also choose to go with supplements or other alternative forms of therapy. For example, acupuncture Brisbane for perimenopause and menopause is a favoured by most women.

Brisbane Livewell Clinic offers perimenopause and menopause treatment with personalised nutritional and stress management plans to help women sail through these years. You can book an online appointment with them today.

Diagnosing Arthritis - How To Know If It’s The Real Culprit Behind Your Joint Pain

Arthritis is common in Australia with approximately 3.85 million people affected. People from all ages experience chronic pain and disability due to arthritis.

With an increase in population, the number of people living with arthritis will also increase. It has been estimated that almost 7 million Australians will be suffering from some form of arthritis by 2050.

While several different types of arthritis are common, its diagnosis is often delayed because individuals neglect the pain, thinking it’s temporary.

Here’s a brief guide regarding the diagnosis of arthritis:

1.    Medical History

Medical history implies all information pertinent to this condition as well as your overall health. It includes the level of pain, if these symptoms come and go and if anything relieves the condition.

Questions related to your health habits and current and past health will also come up. You will be inquired of your recent illness (if any), travels, sport activities, job profession among other things. Substance abuse, healthy weight maintenance, diet and physical and mental stress will also be taken into consideration.

This is done to eliminate the chances of any other causes for your pain.

2.    Family History

A family history of arthritis is a major indication. Arthritis usually runs in the family. If your parents, grandparents or siblings have developed this condition, you are at risk too.

History of other rheumatic diseases and autoimmune disorders are also taken into account to make sure you aren’t suffering from any of those conditions.

3.    Physical Exam

A hands-on joints evaluation is a must. Visible signs of stiffness, redness and swelling are noted. Finger pain is an important indication for arthritis.

If several joints are involved, a pattern is investigated. For example, wrists of both hands or knees of both legs may be involved.

Moving the affected joints determine if there is swelling or restricted movement. Tender areas are also felt near or on these joints. Reflex action, temperature and other physical exams can be included to confirm the diagnosis.

4.    Lab or Imaging Tests

Blood tests may be conducted to check for blood cell counts, liver function and inflammation. These reports can indicate if some other disease is causing the symptoms. Joint fluid can also be drawn for further testing.

X-rays are more frequently used; however, ultrasounds and MRI exams may also be performed to diagnose arthritis. These tests highlight a number of physical features such as bone deformation or soft tissue damage.

Diagnosis of arthritis can be simple in many cases. Most don’t involve these lab or imaging testings. While arthritis can severely affect a person’s routine life, you don’t have to live with pain. Naturopathy Brisbane is an alternative treatment which is effective for treating arthritic pain.

Brisbane Livewell Clinic offers naturopathy services for arthritis and a number of other health conditions. You can book an online appointment with them for a personalised treatment plan.

Can You Differentiate Between Hypo And Hyperthyroidism?

Thyroid is a small, butterfly-shaped gland positioned at the base of your throat. It produces hormones that travel to various parts of your body and control various routine activities.

These hormones help maintain brain, heart and several other organs, and control metabolism too.

The thyroid gland can sometimes dysfunction, affecting all these activities. There are two types of medical problems which can occur to your thyroid.

First, overgrowth of the gland or nodules can occur as well. Thyroid disorders more frequently occur in women than in men.

Second, the hormone production may go awry, resulting in hypo and hyperthyroidism. Here’s how we differentiate the two:

Definition

Hypothyroidism is a decrease in hormone production which is insufficient for normal function. The gland is thus called an underactive thyroid.

On the other hand, hyperthyroidism is when your thyroid produces more hormones than are necessary to maintain organ function. Such a thyroid gland is also called an overactive thyroid.

Causes

Both, hypo and hyperthyroidism, are caused by autoimmune disorders. An autoimmune disease is the one where the immune system becomes activated against body’s own cells.

An underactive thyroid is a result of Hasimoto’s disease, a state in which the body’s immune system attacks the thyroid gland itself.

This results in organ failure and its inability to perform routine functions. Other causes include removal of the gland, radiation treatment for particular cancers, and treatment for hyperthyroidism.

In contrast, thyroid becomes over activated because of Grave’s disease. Here, the immune system excessively stimulates the gland to produce hormones.

Symptoms

Symptoms of both conditions develop slowly. Thus, these signs are difficult to notice in the beginning.

A person with hypothyroidism may generally feel a bit tired. Later on, other symptoms develop, including weight gain, muscle and/or joint pain, increased cold sensitivity, pale skin, depression, hoarse voice, puffy face and excessive bleeding during menstruation.

Hyperthyroidism can result in unhealthy weight loss, irregular heartbeat, anxiety, irritability, irregular sleep pattern, muscle weakening, excessive sweating and less frequent menstruation.

Treatment

Treatment is possible through medication. Thyroid removal through surgery is a viable option for hyperthyroidism. It is usually conducted through an incision just underneath the collar bone. In case of hypothyroidism, hormones are supplemented through medicine.

Naturopathy can also help people suffering through these conditions. These treatments, along with conventional medical therapy, can assist in managing the condition as well as reducing associated symptoms.

A number of different healthcare clinics offer these treatments. Brisbane Livewell Clinic has experienced naturopaths and nutritionists who treat both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism with a holistic approach. You can reach them online here.