Fixing Your Body When Exercise Isn’t Enough

Exercise, physical activity, movement: whatever you call it, your body needs it - every single day of your life. Exercise makes you feel better, both physically and mentally. It can prevent injury, disease and premature death. Sometimes, though, exercise isn’t enough. Like if you break a toe. In cases where help is needed, I’ve got a few recommendations for you in the Glebe, Old Ottawa East, Old Ottawa South area.

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1. Massage Therapy: Lindsey Carter. Lindsey has been a massage therapist since 1995. I have going to her for treatments for almost 10 years. Recently, she also completed certification in manual lymph drainage. It “is a gentle, rhythmic treatment that stimulates the movement of lymph throughout the body. This speeds up the removal of proteins and waste from the tissues, decreasing inflammation and congestion, thereby enabling healing to occur.” Lindsey is located in the Glebe and you can visit her website to book an appointment. 
2. Chiropractic Care: The Mvmt Co. Chiropractors Dr. Luc Mahler and Dr. Garrett De Jong opened their clinic in the Glebe last year. Treatments offered include chiropractic treatments, acupuncture, active release therapy, strength and conditioning programs, gait analysis, and the unique Bike Fit using the STT system. Luc contributed a guest post last year, which you can read here. I’ve had many discussions with Luc about the importance of exercise as part of rehab, and I was even invited on their weekly podcast (check out the replay here).
3. Physiotherapy: FXN Physio.  Old Ottawa South has a new physiotherapy clinic! Founded by physiotherapist Brad Lafortune, Function Physiotherapy focuses on manual therapy. You won’t be hooked up to a machine and left alone during your treatment time. Function Physio also offers dry needling, acupuncture, running assessment, concussion rehab, and much more. Brad is a great addition to the business landscape in my neighbourhood, and I love his treatment philosophy. One of our conversations is also the basis for an anecdote in my upcoming book! 
4. Athletic Therapy: Mel Fiala. You’ll recall I broke my toe last summer, and I wasn’t a very patient patient. Although I was able to continue teaching Essentrics and training clients, my slowly-healing toe was wreaking havoc with other areas of my foot and leg. Mel is an athletic therapist based out of KV Dance Studio in the Glebe. After taking my ballet-dancing daughter to Mel for a few treatments, I decided to have her work on my toe. I’m happy to report that my toe now moves a lot better. 
5. Reflexology: Alexis Nicol. Reflexology is a great way to focus on your body and be present in the moment. And Alexis is a caring and attentive practitioner. If you’re lucky, you may be greeted by one (or more) of her furry friends at the door! Alexis is located in Old Ottawa East.