Do you suffer from a nagging injury like tennis elbow, achilles tendonitis, frozen shoulder, rotator cuff injuries or plantar fasciitis? Shockwave therapy is one of the best research-backed treatments for chronic musculoskeletal conditions that have not healed properly. It involves the application of acoustic sound waves to kick-start healing, control pain, and restore mobility. Often patients will feel relief after their first treatment and can expect more significant and lasting changes within 3-5 applications. Shockwave Therapy coupled with Class IV Laser Therapy is evidence based and the gold standard in tendon healing.

As Easter approaches, children anticipate a chocolate influx, posing potential risks to their dental health. Balancing indulgence with moderation is key to safeguarding oral well-being. The frequency of sugary consumption, not the quantity, triggers dental issues, affecting three in 10 school-starters with tooth decay. Opting for sugar-free Easter eggs and encouraging healthier snacks like breadsticks, vegetables, and cheese mitigates risks. Limiting sweet treats to mealtimes and concluding chocolate intake at least one hour before bedtime are preventive measures. Monitoring portion sizes and offering water after chocolate consumption contribute to better dental health. In the current sugar-conscious climate, these simple practices can significantly reduce children’s tooth decay and lay the groundwork for a healthier future.

Q: My dad eventually went blind because of macular degeneration and I’m worried I’ll develop that problem too, since I’ve inherited many of his traits. What can I do?

A: Although there may be some hereditary components in age-related macular degeneration, that doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll develop that eye disease. Consider the other risk factors that your dad may have had – perhaps a history of poor nutrition, smoking, or unprotected sun exposure, just to name a few. For a personalized assessment of your own eye health, come see us at Mosaic Optometry!

Relax & Unwind Citrus Chamomile. Winter can often bring feelings of sadness, but you can combat those winter blues with a comforting blend of chamomile and fresh citrus tea. Chamomile’s gentle and soothing properties mix well with the invigorating citrus notes, creating a beverage that calms the mind and uplifts the spirit. This delightful infusion can become a beacon of tranquillity by reducing stress and promoting relaxation. Make a nightly ritual to sip on a cup of this tea before bedtime to enhance your well-being, and foster a peaceful night’s rest.

Easy Red Lentil Soup. Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil. 2 carrots. 1 onion. 3 cloves garlic. 2 tsp each ground cumin & turmeric. 1/2 tsp each salt & pepper. 1/4 tsp cayenne. 1 pkg. 900 ml. vegetable broth. 1 cup dried red lentils. 1/4 cup chopped parsley. 3 tbsp. lemon juice. Directions: Heat oil in large saucepan. Cook carrots, onion, and garlic until starting to soften, 3 to 5 min. Stir in cumin, turmeric, salt, pepper, and cayenne. Cook 1 min. until fragrant. Stir in broth and lentils; bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low. Cover and cook 25 min. Stir in chopped parsley and lemon juice.

Did you know that 80% of cardiovascular diseases are preventable through healthy lifestyle and diet. By adopting a healthier lifestyle, you can delay the onset of heart disease or stroke by as much as 14 years! You can further reduce your risk by considering these heart-healthy steps: • Be physically active • Control your blood pressure • Keep your blood cholesterol levels in check • Eat a healthy diet and look for healthy ways to reduce your stress. Talk to your professional CAREGiver™ to discuss how they can help you to make some positive changes in your life.

Q: My husband can’t stand wearing progressive lenses and would rather have separate pairs of glasses for driving and reading. Is there something wrong with him or his eyes?
A: That’s an impossible question to answer in a short column. Progressive lenses, like bifocals, are intended to provide a convenient change in focus when needed. Everyone is different of course. Perhaps his visual tasks are more comfortable for him with non-progressive lenses. It’s also possible that he had a bad experience with improperly fitted glasses in the past. For guidance in your optical choices come see us at Mosaic – we provide a range of lenses for everyone!

February is Children’s Dental Health Month – themed Brush, Floss, Smile!! Key insights reveal tooth decay as the predominant childhood ailment, impacting 3 in 5 children—surpassing asthma’s prevalence by fivefold and resulting in 51 million school hours lost yearly. Prioritize your child’s oral well-being with an initial dentist visit by age one. Establish a routine: brush their teeth for two minutes twice daily, and assist until they can self-manage. Leverage fluoride’s enamel-strengthening prowess to combat cavities. Opt for tooth-friendly snacks like yogurt, cheese, fruits, and veggies, eschewing lingering stickiness. Embrace water as the optimal drink for both dental and overall health. Prioritize those little smiles!