Why Does Everything Hurt? The Musculoskeletal Syndrome of Menopause

By: Dr. Fiona Lovely, Chiropractor

Perhaps you have felt it already: your heel screams when you step out of bed. Your shoulder won't let you shampoo your hair. Your hip aches when you lie on your side at night.

But you didn’t have a trauma or injury, it just hurts. So what's going on?

For many women, the answer is hormonal. The musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause describes the joint, muscle, tendon, and connective tissue changes that can show up as estrogen fluctuates and declines. It affects women from their mid-thirties onward, through perimenopause and menopause.

And it's far from rare. According to the researchers who named the syndrome, more than 70% of women experience musculoskeletal symptoms through the menopause transition, and about one in four will be disabled by those symptoms.*

Why hormones affect your muscles and joints

Estrogen does far more than regulate your cycle. It helps maintain collagen, the protein that gives tendons, ligaments, and fascia their strength and spring. It also helps regulate inflammation and supports muscle repair.

As estrogen shifts, tissues can become stiffer, less resilient, and slower to recover. The result is pain that seems to appear out of nowhere.

What are those symptoms

Plantar fasciitis

The plantar fascia is a thick band of tissue running along the bottom of your foot. When it loses elasticity with the loss of estrogen, it becomes irritated and inflamed. The classic sign is sharp heel pain with your first steps in the morning or after sitting.

Frozen shoulder

Also called adhesive capsulitis, this happens when the capsule around the shoulder joint thickens and tightens. It's most common in women in their forties through sixties. It often progresses through painful, stiff, and slowly thawing stages, which can take many months or even years.

Glute and outer hip pain

Officially called gluteal tendinopathy or greater trochanteric pain syndrome, this shows up as aching on the outside of the hip. It tends to flare when lying on that side, climbing stairs, or standing on one leg.

How manual therapy can help

At Active Sports Therapy, our team works together to support a woman’s body:

Chiropractic to assess and improve joint mechanics and movement patterns
Physiotherapy for targeted strengthening, tendon loading, and rehab plans
Massage therapy to ease muscle tension and improve tissue mobility
Acupuncture to support pain relief and nervous system regulation

These approaches are science-informed and often work best in combination. Your care plan should reflect your body, your stage of life, and your goals.

Your part: keep moving

Here's the honest truth. What happens between appointments matters as much as what happens on the table.

Are you doing your stretching? Calf and foot stretches for plantar fasciitis, gentle range-of-motion work for the shoulder, and hip mobility work can all make a difference.
Strength train. Muscle and tendon respond to load. Building strength is one of the best things you can do for your joints in midlife. Keep it simple and do it daily.
Keep moving. Stiffness tends to breed more stiffness. Walk, swim, cycle, dance. Find movement you enjoy.

Movement is medicine, and consistency is the dose.

You don't have to push through it

Pain in midlife is common, but it isn't something you simply have to accept. If your heel, shoulder, or hip has been talking to you, book an assessment with our team at AST. Let's get you moving well again.

*Reference

Wright VJ, Schwartzman JD, Itinoche R, Wittstein J. The musculoskeletal syndrome of menopause. Climacteric. 2024;27(5):466–472. doi:10.1080/13697137.2024.2380363

Manual Lymphatic Drainage in Calgary: A New Service at Active Sports Therapy

By: Leah Resch, RMT and Active Sports Therapy,

Recovery looks different for everyone. Whether you are managing chronic conditions, an injury, or navigating recovery following surgery, understanding your treatment options can help you take the next step.

AST Willow Park’s Leah Resch, RMT, is now trained in Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)—a gentle, hands-on technique that may be incorporated into an individualized care plan to help manage swelling.

What Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage?

Manual Lymphatic Drainage, sometimes called lymphatic drainage massage, uses light, carefully directed movements to encourage lymph fluid to move through the lymphatic system. Your lymphatic system helps collect excess fluid from your tissues and return it to your blood- stream. MLD supports this movement of fluid and may help reduce swelling, shorten down-time, and curb acute pain in suitable patients. Treatment uses gentle pressure rather than deep muscle work. (my.clevelandclinic.org)

How Might MLD Fit Into Your Recovery?

At AST, this service is intended for people with a functioning lymphatic system who are experiencing swelling related to injury or orthopedic recovery.

Depending on your assessment, your practitioner may discuss MLD as part of care for:

• Swelling following an injury, once the injury has been assessed and treatment is appropriate.

• Recovery after orthopedic surgery, with clearance from your surgical team.

• Discomfort associated with localized swelling or fluid retention alongside treatment for the underlying cause.

MLD may help reduce postoperative swelling and discomfort in some circumstances. Its suitability depends on the procedure, your stage of recovery and your medical history. (Cleveland Clinic)

The goal is to determine whether this gentle approach has a useful role in your recovery plan. It does not replace rehabilitation exercises, medical care or your surgeon’s instructions.

What Does Treatment Feel Like?

MLD uses light pressure and deliberate movements across the skin. You should expect a gentle treatment rather than the firm pressure often associated with sports massage. Some people also find the experience relaxing. (my.clevelandclinic.org)

Before treatment, be ready to discuss your symptoms, medical history, recent injuries or procedures, and what you hope to achieve. This information helps your practitioner determine whether MLD is appropriate or whether another assessment is needed first.

Do You Need to Be an Athlete?

You do not need to play a sport to ask about this service. The important consideration is the cause of your swelling and whether treatment is suitable for you.

For someone returning to activity after an injury or surgery, MLD may be one part of a broader recovery plan. Your care should reflect your individual needs, whether your goal is getting back to training, work or everyday movement.

Is Manual Lymphatic Drainage Right for Everyone?

MLD is not appropriate for everyone. An active infection, a suspected or confirmed blood clot, or certain heart and kidney conditions may make treatment unsuitable. New or unexplained swelling should be assessed before booking a massage. (my.clevelandclinic.org)

AST’s new service does not include specialized lymphedema management. If you have a diagnosed lymphatic disorder or swelling related to lymph node removal or radiation, you will need assessment and care from an appropriately qualified lymphedema professional.

Ask AST About Manual Lymphatic Drainage

Wondering whether Manual Lymphatic Drainage in Calgary could fit into your recovery plan?

Book an appointment with Leah Resch, RMT, at Active Sports Therapy to discuss your needs and find out whether this gentle treatment is right for you.

Our Unified Team of practitioners is here to support your recovery and KEEP YOU MOVING.

This article is for general information only and does not replace individualized medical advice,diagnosis or treatment. Suitability for Manual Lymphatic Drainage requires assessment, and results vary.

Is Your Backpack or Laptop Bag Causing Pain? A Physiotherapist’s Guide to Proper Fit

By: Active Sports Therapy

September means back to school, back to work and back to routine. For many of us, it also means going back to carrying backpacks, laptops, books, gym gear and everything else we need to get through the day.

Whether it is your child heading to school, a university student crossing campus or an adult commuting to work, how you carry those everyday items can make a difference to how your body feels.

At AST or practitioners, often look at the small, repetitive stresses placed on the body throughout the day. A backpack or laptop bag may not seem like a big deal, but when a bag is too heavy, poorly fitted or carried unevenly day after day, it can contribute to neck, shoulder and back discomfort. (Ohio State Health)

Why Does Backpack Fit Matter?

Your body naturally adjusts to the load you are carrying.

When a backpack hangs too low or sits too far away from your body, you may compensate by leaning forward. If you consistently carry a laptop or messenger bag on one shoulder, you may shift your body in the opposite direction to balance the weight.

Over time, these compensations can increase the demand on the muscles of your neck, shoulders and back. Research has also shown that backpack strap length and positioning can influence neck posture and upper trapezius discomfort. (PubMed Central (PMC))

The goal isn't to achieve "perfect posture" every minute of the day. Instead, we want to make the load easier for your body to manage.

5 Tips for a Better Backpack Fit

1. Use both shoulder straps

A backpack is designed to distribute weight across both shoulders. Wearing it over one shoulder creates an uneven load and can increase strain through the neck, shoulders and back.

Look for two comfortable, adjustable, padded straps and use both of them. (HealthyChildren.org)

2. Keep the backpack close to your body

Adjust the straps so the backpack sits snugly against your back rather than hanging loosely toward your hips or buttocks.

The farther the weight sits from your body, the more your body has to compensate to carry it.

3. Pay attention to weight

Backpacks get heavy surprisingly quickly, especially when you start adding laptops, chargers, water bottles, textbooks, lunch and sports equipment.

For children and teens, a commonly recommended guideline is to keep a loaded backpack to around 10–15% of body weight, although the appropriate amount can vary depending on the individual and how far the bag needs to be carried. (HealthyChildren.org)

More importantly, watch how the person moves while wearing it. If they need to significantly lean forward, struggle to put the bag on or regularly complain of discomfort, it's time to lighten the load or adjust the fit.

4. Pack heavier items closest to your back

Where you put things matters too.

Laptops, textbooks and other heavier items should be positioned closest to your back. Use the bag's compartments to prevent everything from shifting around and to distribute the load more evenly. (HealthyChildren.org)

A weekly backpack clean-out can also help. You might be surprised by how much unnecessary weight accumulates!

5. Use waist and chest straps when available

These straps aren't just for hiking backpacks.

A properly adjusted chest strap can help stabilize the backpack, while a waist or hip strap can help redistribute some of the load away from the shoulders. This can be particularly useful for heavier loads or longer walks. (The Ergonomics Center)

What About Laptop and Messenger Bags?

Adults aren't off the hook.

Laptop bags, large purses and messenger bags are often carried on one side of the body, sometimes for long periods during a commute or workday.

If your bag is heavy, consider switching to a backpack-style laptop bag with two shoulder straps. From an ergonomic perspective, carrying a laptop with two shoulder straps can distribute the load more efficiently than carrying the same weight primarily on one side. (The Ergonomics Center)

If you prefer a shoulder or crossbody bag, keep the load as light as possible, avoid carrying unnecessary items and change sides periodically rather than always loading the same shoulder.

Signs Your Bag May Need an Adjustment

Pay attention if you or your child regularly experiences:

Neck or shoulder pain after carrying a bag
Upper or lower back discomfort
Headaches associated with neck or shoulder tension
Tingling or numbness in the arms or hands
Red marks where backpack straps sit
The need to lean forward or sideways while carrying the bag
Pain that continues after the backpack or bag has been removed

These symptoms don't necessarily mean the backpack itself is the only cause, but they're worth paying attention to—particularly if they happen repeatedly.

Small Changes Can Make a Big Difference

Backpacks aren't inherently bad for your back. In fact, a properly fitted backpack is an effective way to distribute the things you need to carry.

The key is fit, weight and how you carry it.

As everyone settles back into school, work, sports and regular routines this September, take a minute to check your family's backpacks and laptop bags. Adjust the straps, remove what you don't need and make sure the load feels comfortable.

If neck pain, shoulder pain or back pain is interfering with school, work, sports or the activities you enjoy, our Unified Team of Physiotherapists and Chiropractors at Active Sports Therapy Willow Park and Westman Village in Mahogany can help. Our team can assess how you move, identify factors that may be contributing to your pain or discomfort, and develop a personalized treatment plan to help you KEEP MOVING.

Active Sports Therapy | Willow Park + Westman Village

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Treatments

By: Dr. Corey Finan BSc., DC, CCSP, RMT, ART

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) is a condition in which the patient feels pain, numbness, tingling and other symptoms that can be uncomfortable or painful in the hand and arm. It is caused by the compression of the nerve in the carpal tunnel, hence it’s name. The carpal tunnel is a narrow passageway on the palm side of the wrist. The issue is related to the median nerve which goes from your forearm and through the carpal tunnel passageway to your hand. It is responsible for sensation in your hands as well as muscle function. When this nerve is irritated, or the passageway is narrowed, then we feel the symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Causes can range from arthritis and inflammation, workplace factors such as computer work and working with tools where repetitive motion is required. Obesity is a risk factor, and females tend to suffer from this condition more often than men.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome will usually start off progressing in a gradual way. The most common symptoms include the following:

Tingling and Numbness – this could be in your hand or in your fingers and is often felt in the thumb, index, middle or ring fingers. The sensation may travel from the wrist and even into the arm. You may feel these sensations when the hands are outstretched doing something such as holding a newspaper or book, or a smart phone.

Weakness – You may feel like your hands are weaker than usual. This could be due to the numbness and the issues that are happening in the median nerve.

Preventative Measures:

Taking the stress off of your hands and wrists where possible.
If your work contributes to this you can first look at your keyboard and mouse and invest in tools that don’t strain your wrists.
Take breaks and stretch the area by gently stretching your hands and wrists back and forth.
Alternating tasks and giving your hands a break can be helpful.
If you’re working outside, try keep your hands and wrists warm with gloves or fingerless gloves when required.

Other Things to Consider:

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome can occur in anyone, but there are some things that you may want to look at first before thinking you have CTS. First, there is a much more common cause for numbness and pain in the hand / fingers, and that is Cubital Tunnel Syndrome, which is a nerve entrapment in the elbow where the nerves enter the forearm. Often repetitive strain at the hand and wrist can cause the muscles in the forearm and elbow to become tight, and thus compress the nerves to your hand. Another important caveat would be to consider whether conservative care would be a better alternative for you, or if surgery may be the way to go. A trial of conservative care, specifically Active Release Therapy (ART), may prevent the need for surgery. You can easily determine that by doing a Diagnostic Ultrasound of the Median Nerve at the Carpal Tunnel. If the nerve is enlarged, you can be certain that it is inflamed at the tunnel. This would indicate that the decompression surgery typical of CTS surgery would be of benefit to you. However, if the nerve is of normal size, then you should not do the surgery, and seek conservative care and look elsewhere in the body for the problem. These are simple guidelines that can help you determine which direction to go. All of the Doctors at AST can order the Diagnostic Ultrasound imaging and can interpret the results and give guidance as needed.

Treatment From Our Clinic

If you think you may be suffering from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, our clinic has several treatments that might benefit you. Active Release Techniques for one can be very helpful to treat this syndrome. The practitioner will evaluate your mobility and tightness of the area which will usually be due to the presence of scar tissue. By using manual pressure, the practitioner can break up the scar tissue to lessen the pressure on the median nerve, resulting in a reduction in symptoms. Many people can find relief in just a few treatments! There are several forearm muscle stretches and exercises that we can teach you to help remove some of the symptoms, and more importantly keep them at bay once you improve. We also provide IMS which can help with pain relief in the forearm muscles, and Graston Technique which is an instrument assisted soft tissue treatment designed to help break down scar tissue and release tight muscles. Shockwave Therapy and Laser Therapy can also be additional therapies that can speed recovery. We have seen hundreds of cases of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome over the years with most resolving successfully in a relatively short period of time.

If you believe that you might be suffering from Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, please give us call to book your appointment.

*This blog is not intended to officially establish a physician-patient relationship, to replace the services of a trained physician, naturopathic doctor, physical therapist or chiropractor or otherwise to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Top 5 Volleyball Injuries & Treatment

Written by: Active Sports Therapy

Volleyball is a fast, explosive sport that requires repeated jumping, landing, quick changes of direction and powerful overhead movements. These demands can lead to both acute injuries and overuse problems.

At Active Sports Therapy (AST) in Calgary, our Chiropractors and Physiotherapists have extensive experience treating volleyball and other sports-related injuries. Our Chiropractors use Active Release Techniques (ART) to address muscles and other soft tissues, while our rehab-focused Physiotherapists help restore strength, mobility and function.

Here are five common volleyball injuries we treat at AST.

1. Ankle Sprains

Ankle sprains are extremely common in volleyball, often occurring when a player lands awkwardly after jumping or lands on another player's foot.

Treatment focuses on restoring mobility, strength, balance and stability. AST Chiropractors may use ART and manual therapy to address affected soft tissues, while our Physiotherapists focus on rehabilitation, balance and progressive return to jumping and sport.

2. Jumper's Knee

Patellar tendinopathy, commonly called jumper's knee, can develop from the repetitive jumping and landing involved in volleyball.

Players typically experience pain below the kneecap during jumping, squatting or climbing stairs.

Treatment may combine ART and soft tissue therapy with progressive strengthening of the knee, quadriceps and hips. Rehabilitation then progresses toward jumping, landing and volleyball-specific movements.

3. Shoulder and Rotator Cuff Injuries

Repeated serving and spiking can place significant stress on the shoulder and rotator cuff. AST Chiropractors use Active Release Techniques and manual therapy to address soft tissue restrictions around the shoulder, chest and upper back. Our Physiotherapists focus on rotator cuff strength, shoulder blade control and progressive overhead rehabilitation.

The goal is to restore both comfortable movement and the strength required for repeated serving and hitting.

4. Finger and Hand Injuries

Jammed fingers are common when blocking, setting or digging. Injuries can range from minor sprains to more significant ligament, tendon or joint injuries.

Persistent swelling, deformity or loss of movement should be properly assessed. Treatment and rehabilitation can help restore finger mobility, strength and function for a safe return to play.

5. Low Back Pain

Repeated jumping, landing, bending and rotation can also contribute to low back pain in volleyball players. Our Chiropractors

may use ART, soft tissue treatment and joint therapy to restore mobility and reduce mechanical restrictions. Physiotherapy can then address core control, hip strength, mobility and movement patterns to prepare the athlete for the demands of volleyball.

Volleyball Injury Treatment in Calgary

At Active Sports Therapy, we don't just focus on where it hurts. We look at the joints, muscles, soft tissues, strength and movement patterns that may be contributing to the injury.

Our collaborative approach combines Chiropractic care, Active Release Techniques and rehabilitation-focused Physiotherapy to help volleyball players:

Reduce pain

Restore mobility

Rebuild strength and stability

Improve jumping and landing mechanics

Return safely and confidently to volleyball

Whether you are a competitive athlete, youth volleyball player or recreational player, our goal is to get you moving well and back on the court.

Dealing with a volleyball injury?

Book with the Active Sports Therapy team in Calgary and let us help you get back in the game.

Tennis Elbow vs. Golfer's Elbow: What's the Difference?

By: Active Sports Therapy

Do you experience pain when lifting a coffee mug, opening a jar, gripping a golf club, or carrying groceries? If so, you could be dealing with tennis elbow or golfer's elbow—two common overuse injuries that affect the tendons around the elbow. Despite their names, you don't have to play tennis or golf to develop either condition. Repetitive movements at work, around the house, or during exercise are often the real cause.

What is Tennis Elbow and Golfer's Elbow?

Both conditions are forms of epicondylitis, an overuse injury that causes irritation and inflammation where the forearm muscles attach to the elbow.
The biggest difference is where the pain occurs.
Tennis elbow (Lateral Epicondylitis): Pain develops on the outside of the elbow.
Golfer's elbow (Medial Epicondylitis): Pain develops on the inside of the elbow.
Both conditions are caused by repetitive strain, but the muscles and tendons involved are different.

What is Golfer's Elbow?

Golfer's elbow affects the tendons on the inside (medial side) of the elbow. It commonly develops from repetitive wrist flexion, gripping, or lifting.

You don't need to play golf to develop golfer's elbow. It is frequently seen in:

Golfers
Gardeners
Tradespeople
Warehouse workers
Cashiers
Anyone performing repetitive lifting or gripping

Common Symptoms of Golfer's Elbow

You may notice:

Pain on the inside of the elbow
Weakness when gripping or lifting objects
Pain when twisting a doorknob or opening a jar
Tenderness along the forearm
Occasional swelling
Wrist or hand weakness

Even lifting a coffee cup can become uncomfortable.

What is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow affects the tendons on the outside (lateral side) of the elbow and is one of the most common repetitive strain injuries.

While racquet sports can contribute to tennis elbow, it is also common among:

Painters
Carpenters
Mechanics
Cooks
Office workers
Weightlifters
Anyone performing repetitive wrist extension or gripping

Common Symptoms of Tennis Elbow

Symptoms often include:

Pain on the outside of the elbow
Pain when gripping, lifting, or reaching
Weakness in the forearm
Difficulty opening jars or shaking hands
Pain that may travel into the forearm or wrist
A constant dull ache that worsens with activity

How Can You Treat Tennis Elbow or Golfer's Elbow?

Early treatment can help reduce pain, improve healing, and prevent the condition from becoming chronic.

Helpful strategies include:

Rest from aggravating activities
Ice during painful flare-ups
Gradually strengthening the forearm muscles
Stretching exercises prescribed by your practitioner
Improving technique for sports or repetitive work tasks
Wearing an elbow brace if recommended by your healthcare provider
Consistency with your rehabilitation exercises is one of the most important factors in recovery.

Treatment for Elbow Pain

If your elbow pain isn't improving or continues to return, it's important to have it properly assessed. Not all elbow pain is tennis elbow or golfer's elbow, and an accurate diagnosis is the first step toward effective treatment.

At Active Sports Therapy, our multidisciplinary team creates personalized treatment plans to help reduce pain, restore strength, and get you back to doing what you love.

Treatment may include:

Physiotherapy
Chiropractic Care
Active Release Techniques (ART)
Massage Therapy
Laser Therapy
Individualized rehabilitation exercises
Education on preventing future flare-ups

By addressing the underlying cause—not just the symptoms—we help you recover safely and reduce your risk of recurring injuries.

Don't Let Elbow Pain Slow You Down

Whether your pain started on the golf course, tennis court, at work, or in the gym, early treatment can make all the difference.

If you are experiencing elbow pain, book an assessment with one of our experienced healthcare professionals and start your recovery today.

What Is Active Release Techniques (ART)? Benefits, Conditions Treated & How It Works

By Active Sports Therapy

If you're struggling with muscle tightness, chronic pain, repetitive strain injuries, or a sports injury that just won't heal, Active Release Techniques (ART) may be the solution.

At Active Sports Therapy, our certified chiropractors use Active Release Techniques (ART) to identify and treat scar tissue, muscle restrictions, and nerve entrapments that can limit movement and cause pain. ART is a proven hands-on therapy designed to restore healthy movement, improve flexibility, and help you recover faster.

What Is Active Release Techniques (ART)?

Active Release Techniques (ART) is a specialized manual therapy that treats problems affecting the body's muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves.

Over time, repetitive movements, sports injuries, poor posture, or trauma can cause scar tissue (adhesions) to develop within soft tissues. These adhesions reduce mobility, restrict blood flow, and may compress nearby nerves, leading to pain, stiffness, weakness, or decreased performance.

ART is specifically designed to locate and break down these adhesions, allowing tissues to move normally again.

How Does ART Work?

During an ART treatment, your practitioner shortens the affected muscle or soft tissue before applying precise tension with their hands. You'll then actively move the body through a specific range of motion while the practitioner maintains targeted pressure.

This unique combination of movement and manual therapy allows your chiropractor to:

Locate scar tissue and soft tissue restrictions
Break down adhesions
Restore normal tissue mobility
Improve flexibility and range of motion
Reduce pain and muscle tension
Improve movement throughout the entire kinetic chain

Because every treatment is also an assessment, your practitioner can identify exactly where restrictions exist and tailor treatment to your individual needs.

Why Is Treating the Entire Kinetic Chain Important?

Pain is not always caused by the area where you feel symptoms.

For example, knee pain may originate from tight hips or ankles, while shoulder pain may be influenced by restrictions in the neck or upper back.

ART allows practitioners to assess the entire kinetic chain—the interconnected muscles and joints that work together during movement. By treating both the painful area and contributing restrictions elsewhere in the body, ART helps address the root cause rather than simply masking symptoms.

Benefits of Active Release Techniques

Many patients choose ART because it offers:

Faster recovery from injuries
Reduced muscle tension and stiffness
Improved flexibility and mobilit
Better athletic performance
Reduced nerve irritation
Improved circulation
Restored healthy movement patterns
Drug-free, non-invasive pain relief

When combined with personalized stretching and strengthening exercises, many patients notice significant improvement within 4–6 treatments, although recovery varies depending on the injury and individual.

What Conditions Can ART Treat?

Active Release Techniques can be highly effective for a wide variety of musculoskeletal conditions, including:

Sports Injuries

Running injuries
Golf injuries
Tennis elbow
Golfer's elbow
Swimmer's shoulder
Throwing injuries
Weightlifting injuries

Muscle & Tendon Conditions

Muscle strains
Tendonitis
Achilles tendonitis
Rotator cuff injuries
Frozen shoulder
Iliotibial (IT) Band Syndrome
Shin splints
Plantar fasciitis

Joint & Nerve Conditions

Back pain
Neck pain
Sciatica
Carpal tunnel syndrome
Thoracic outlet syndrome
Nerve entrapment
TMJ dysfunction
Whiplash

Other Conditions

Headaches
Hip pain
Knee pain
Meniscus injuries
Foot and ankle injuries
Bursitis
Scar tissue restrictions
Post-surgical soft tissue dysfunction
Rib pain
Myofascial pain
Gait imbalances
Compartment syndrome

Is ART Right for You?

Whether you're recovering from a sports injury, dealing with repetitive strain from work, or experiencing chronic muscle tightness, ART may help restore normal movement and reduce pain.

At Active Sports Therapy, our ART-certified chiropractors develop individualized treatment plans designed to help you move better, recover faster, and get back to doing what you love.

Book an Active Release Techniques Appointment in Calgary

If you're looking for Active Release Techniques (ART) in Calgary, our experienced chiropractors are here to help.

Book your appointment today to learn whether ART is the right treatment for your injury or condition.

Disclaimer: This article is intended for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. It is not intended to establish a healthcare provider–patient relationship or replace assessment, diagnosis, or treatment by a qualified healthcare professional. If you have concerns about your health, please consult an appropriate healthcare provider.

What Is Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS)? A Physiotherapy Treatment for Chronic Pain

By: Active Sports Therapy

If you are living with chronic pain, recurring headaches, whiplash symptoms, or persistent muscle tightness, Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) may be an effective treatment option. Used by trained physiotherapists, IMS is a specialized form of dry needling designed to address pain and dysfunction caused by irritated nerves and shortened muscles. At Active Sports Therapy, IMS is commonly used to help patients reduce pain, improve mobility, and return to the activities they enjoy.

Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) is an effective treatment for chronic pain of neuropathic origin. This technique uses needles similar to the needles used in acupuncture to find and diagnose muscle shortening in deep muscles. This technique is great because it has very few side effects.

IMS was developed by Dr. Chan Gunn while he was a clinic physician at the Worker’s Compensation Board of British Columbia in the 1970’s. He is presently President of iSTOP and clinical professor at the University of Washington’s Multi Disciplinary Pain Center in Seattle. Dr. Gunn has been awarded The Order of British Columbia as well as The Order of Canada, the nation’s highest honor, for his contributions towards solving chronic pain. He has also been elected Honorary Fellow of Peterhouse Cambridge University. Although IMS uses implements adapted from traditional acupuncture, it is based on scientific, neurophysiological principles. The acupuncture needles used are very thin (much thinner that the hollow needle used to inject medicine or take blood samples). You may not even feel it penetrating the skin, and if your muscle is normal, the needle is painless. However, if your muscle is supersensitive and shortened, you’ll feel a peculiar sensation – like a muscle cramp or Charlie Horse. This is a distinctive type of discomfort caused by the muscle grasping the needles. Patients soon learn to recognize and welcome this sensation. They call it a “good” or positive pain because it soon disappears and is followed by a wonderful feeling of relief no longer tight, you no longer feel it. What has happened is that the needling has caused your abnormal muscle shortening to intensity and then release. It is important that you experience this sensation in order to gain lasting relief.

“Neuropathy”- or- what happens when nerves start to go wrong…

Doctors usually have no difficulty in treating pain caused by injury (a fracture, for example) or inflammation (such as rheumatoid arthritis). But they are perplexed by pain that shows no sign of tissue damage or inflammation, such as headaches, “whiplash”, backache, tennis elbow or frozen shoulder.

Dr. Gunn had introduced “neuropathic pain”, to describe this type of pain. Typically this occurs when nerves malfunction following minor irritation. Nerves and nerve-endings become extremely sensitive and cause innocent, harmless signals to be exaggerated and misperceived as painful ones. (This characteristic is known medically as supersensitivity). The result is pain, even when extensive medical tests show there is “nothing wrong”. Until recently, supersensitivity has received little attention in medical circles.

The Effects of IMS

The effects of IMS are cumulative – needling stimulates a certain amount of healing, until eventually, the condition is healed and the pain disappears. Some patients treated with IMS have remained pain-free for over 20 years.

Frequency of Treatments

Treatments are usually once a week (but can be spread out to two weeks) to allow time between treatments for the body to heal itself. The number of treatments you require will depend on several factors such as the duration and extent of your condition, how much scar tissue there is (usually increased after previous surgery) and how quickly your body can heal, the rate of healing depends on the condition of your nerves (young people usually heal more quickly, although older is not necessarily slower). If the pain is of recent origin, one treatment may be all that is necessary. In published studies of patients with low back pain, the average number of IMS treatments required was 8.2.

Treating Neuropathic Pain

Supersensitivity and muscle shortening cannot be operated on and “cut away”. “Pain killers” and other analgesic pills only masks the pain. The goal of treatment is to release muscle shortening which presses on and irritates the nerve. Supersensitive areas can be desensitized and the persistent pull of shortened muscles released.

If you're struggling with chronic pain, headaches, whiplash, TMJ dysfunction, or persistent muscle tightness, Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) may help address the underlying cause of your symptoms rather than simply masking them.

The experienced physiotherapists at Active Sports Therapy can assess your condition and determine whether IMS is an appropriate treatment option as part of your personalized rehabilitation plan.

Book an assessment today to learn if IMS therapy can help you move better, feel stronger, and return to the activities you love.

Race Day Preparation Tips for Calgary Runners | Active Sports Therapy

By Active Sports Therapy

Spring and summer mean one thing in Calgary: race season is here.

Whether you're lacing up for your first 5K, training for a marathon, or taking on a community triathlon, proper preparation can make all the difference in how you perform—and how you recover.

Training is essential, but race readiness goes beyond logging kilometres. From gait analysis and injury prevention to recovery strategies and performance optimization, here are seven ways to help you cross the finish line feeling your best.

1. Start with a Gait Analysis

Your running form matters.

A professional gait analysis can identify movement patterns and biomechanical issues that may be affecting your performance or increasing your risk of injury.

Custom orthotics can be especially beneficial if you experience:

Excessive pronation
Plantar fasciitis
Recurring foot, knee, or hip pain
Poor foot biomechanics

Small adjustments can have a significant impact on your comfort, efficiency, and long-term running goals.

2. Connect with a Running Expert

Calgary is home to an incredible running community, with coaches, clinicians, and specialty stores dedicated to helping runners succeed.

Working with a running expert can help you refine your form, improve efficiency, and reduce your risk of injury before race day.

3. Listen to Your Body

One of the most important skills any runner can develop is knowing when to push—and when to pull back.

Pain is often an early warning sign that your body needs attention. Addressing minor aches and discomfort early can help prevent them from becoming more serious injuries that sideline your training.

If something doesn't feel right, don't ignore it.

4. Use the RICE Method Early

When an acute injury happens, early action matters.

Apply the RICE method—Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation—for 10 to 15 minutes at a time, several times throughout the day. Avoid activities that aggravate the injury and seek professional guidance if symptoms persist.

5. Don't Overlook the Mental Side of Recovery

Setbacks are frustrating, especially when they interfere with activities you love.

Staying positive and focusing on what you can control can make a meaningful difference in your recovery journey. Celebrate small wins, trust the process, and remember that recovery is part of training.

6. Support Your Body with Chiropractic Care and Active Release Therapy®

Proper movement starts with proper function.

Chiropractic care can help optimize mobility and alignment, while Active Release Therapy® targets soft tissue restrictions that may contribute to pain, tightness, and limited movement.

Together, these therapies can help you move more efficiently and recover more effectively.

Get Race-Ready with Active Sports Therapy

Race preparation isn't just about training harder—it's about training smarter.

Whether you're looking to prevent injuries, improve performance, or recover more effectively, our team is here to support you every step of the way.

Book an appointment to learn whether chiropractic care, Active Release Therapy®, gait analysis, or custom orthotics are right for you.

Natural Health Support for Teen Athletes: Building Strong Bodies, Resilient Minds, and Lifelong Wellness

By: Dr Gayle Maguire, BSc, ND.

While sports can build confidence, discipline, and resilience, intense training without proper recovery and support can also contribute to fatigue, injury, anxiety, sleep problems, digestive issues, and burnout.

Natural health approaches can play an important role in helping teen athletes stay healthy, recover properly, and perform at their best — while supporting long-term development rather than short-term performance alone.

Why Teen Athletes Need Specialized Support

Teenagers are not simply “smaller adults.” Their bodies are still developing, and their nutritional, hormonal, neurological, and emotional needs are unique.

During adolescence, athletes experience:

Rapid growth and increased nutrient demands
Hormonal changes
Increased stress on joints, muscles, and connective tissue
Greater sleep requirements
Emotional and academic pressures
Increased risk of overtraining and burnout

Supporting the whole athlete — not just their sport performance — is essential for sustainable health.

Common Health Concerns in Teen Athletes

Fatigue and Low Energy

Busy schedules, inadequate nutrition, poor sleep, and overtraining can leave athletes constantly exhausted. Signs may include difficulty recovering after practices, low motivation, frequent illness, brain fog, reduced endurance. As a naturopathic doctor, we look into iron status, nutrient deficienies, sleep quality, stress levels, and hydration/fueling habits. For female athletes in particular, hormone investigations can also be helpful.

Sports Injuries and Recovery

Growth spurts can increase injury risk because bones, muscles, and tendons may develop at different rates. Female athletes suffer certain injuries, like ACL injuries, more often than males. Common concerns include knee and ankle pain, shin splints, muscle and overuse strains, and concussions. Natural supports can help recovery & moblity, pain & inflammation management, and nervous system regulation.

Anxiety and Performance Stress

Teen athletes frequently experience pressure related to competition, scholarships, social media, in addition to their performance and intrinsic goals. Stress may show up as trouble sleeping, digestive symptoms, irritability, panic before games, or difficulty concentrating. Supporting mental wellness is just as important as physical training, and many nutritional and herbal treatments can support resiliency and sleep.

Foundations of Natural Teen Athlete Health

Nutrition First

Athletes need adequate fuel for growth & recovery, brain function, hormone production, and immune health. Key focus areas include:

Protein intake for muscle repair
Complex carbohydrates for energy
Healthy fats for hormone balance
Iron-rich foods
Hydration and electrolytes
Balanced post-workout meals

Restrictive eating or under-fueling can negatively affect both performance and long-term health.

Sleep and Recovery

Sleep is where the body repairs and adapts. Teen athletes often need 8–10 hours of sleep nightly, yet many fall short due to early practices, homework, stress, and screen time.

Poor sleep can increase injury risk, illness frequency, mood changes, recovery time, reaction time deficits. Recovery strategies may include:

Consistent sleep schedules
Nervous system regulation
Stretching and mobility
Rest days
Stress management techniques

Nervous System and Mental Health SupportAthletic success is not only physical. Supporting the nervous system can improve focus, resiliency & regulation, confidence, and recovery. Natural approaches may include:

Mindfulness practices
Breathwork
Counseling support
Acupuncture/acupressure or Craniosacral therapy
Nutritional support
Healthy routines and boundaries

Young athletes thrive when adults focus on sustainable growth rather than constant pressure to specialize or perform.

A Collaborative Approach Matters

Teen athletes benefit most when parents, coaches, healthcare providers, and athletes work together. Naturopathic healthcare can complement medical care and rehabilitation plans, as well as mental health goals. The goal is not simply better performance — it is healthier, happier, and more resilient young people. Supporting teen athletes naturally means looking beyond the scoreboard. When sleep, nutrition, recovery, mental wellness, and injury prevention are prioritized, athletes are better equipped to perform, recover, and enjoy their sport for years to come.

If your teen athlete is struggling with fatigue, stress, recovery, nutrition, or recurring injuries, natural healthcare approaches may help support their overall health and development in a safe and holistic way.

Dr. Gayle Maguire, BSc ND, AST Willow Park, Calgary,

Naturopathic Doctor

She/Her

I acknowledge and honour that I live,work, and play on the lands of the Treaty 7 Nations (Siksika, Kainai, Piikani, Nakoda and Tsuut'ina) of Southern Alberta, and the Metis Nation of Alberta, Region 3

Member of the CNDA (College of Naturopathic Doctors of Alberta), CAND (Canadian Association of Naturopathic Doctors), Pediatric Association of Naturopathic Physicians (PedANP)

* This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace medical assessment or care. Please see your healthcare provider for advice that is right for you.*

Today’s teen athletes are training harder, competing longer seasons, and balancing more demands than ever before. Between school, sports, social pressures, and rapid physical growth, many young athletes are operating under significant stress — both physically and mentally.