Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years. When done properly by a registered professional, Acupuncture works with the whole person to understand lifestyle, stressors and impacts preventing high quality life.

Have a listen to the latest GO2 Health podcast, where Rod Martin explains:

• What is Acupuncture?
• How does Acupuncture work?
• What can patients expect?
• What are some of conditions that Acupuncture is most known for treating?
• What are some of the benefits of Acupuncture for veterans?

Click here to listen to the interview.

Rod Martin is the Founder and Managing Director of GO2 Health. He is a Senior Acupuncturist and is currently managing a research project to demonstrate evidence of the positive impacts of Acupuncture with people with PTSD.

For more information, or to get in touch with Rod, please contact GO2 Health on 3355 5540.

It is said that when we harmonise ourselves with the seasons we are able to maintain health and prevent disease.  Winter is the most Yin time of the year and it associated with the Kidneys.

Jacinta allowed us to use her blog post, please visit her website at www.jaeacupuncture.com.au 

Winter would have to be my favourite time of year. I love winter. It's that time where we slow down, rug up, and eat delicious warm stews. One of my favourite things about Chinese medicine is that it advocates living in harmony with the seasons. Each season is associated with a different Organ and therefore has a different set of instructions on how to live optimally during that time. It is said that when we harmonise ourselves with the seasons we are able to maintain health and prevent disease. 

Winter is the most Yin time of the year and it associated with the Kidneys. In TCM, our Kidneys are the root of life and store our "essence", which is what determines our health throughout our lives. This is why it is so important to look after our Kidneys and winter is the best time to do that. 

Our diet and lifestyle during this time should reflect the Yin nature of this season. Rest is especially vital during winter as it supports the Kidneys. Ever wondered why some animals hibernate in the winter months? Conserving their Kidney energy definitely seems like the right answer. Activities that are great in winter include reading, meditation, cooking and anything that nourishes the soul. Think of it as the perfect time to curl up on the couch with a good book and hot tea. 

Now, being the huge nutrition nerd that I am, food is one of my favourite ways to look after myself. I find cooking relaxing and having this colder weather means I am more than happy to spend my spare time hanging out in front of the stove. Winter is the best time to cook hearty stews and bone broths which are, funnily enough, totally amazing for the Kidneys. Chinese medicine also associates the bones with the Kidneys, so there is another reason why bone broths are awesome. In general, broths and stews are very warming and nourishing and make you feel like you are getting a nice warm hug. In winter, we should be cooking our foods for longer, on a low heat with less water. This allows the food to become infused with heat, which helps to keep our bodies warm. The Kidneys are also connected with the colour black so black foods like black rice, black lentils and black beans are just what the (TCM) doctor ordered. Here is a quick list of seasonal winter foods that support the Kidneys:

Broccoli, Carrots, Cauliflower, Fennel, Potatoes, Spinach, Celery, Leek, Pumpkin, Sweet potato, Ginger, Cabbage, Lamb, Chicken.

Right, so you may be thinking 'that list is all well and good but what can I cook?' Easy peasy. I've done that for you. Here is a recipe that I use which incorporates almost all the great Kidney nourishing foods and also tastes amazing. 

WINTER LAMB AND FENNEL STEW

Ingredients:

• 0.5kg Lamb shoulder, boneless, cut into 3cm chunks)
• 2 x carrots, ends cut off and chopped
• 2 x fennel bulbs, stems removed and roughly chopped
• 2 x large potatoes, peeled, washed and chopped into 2-3cm chunks
• 2 x parsnips, peeled and chopped
• 1 x large brown onion, diced
• 8 x button mushrooms, washed and cut into quarters
• 4 cups of organic chicken stock
• 1 cup of dry red wine
• 1/4 cup plain flour
• 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
• Salt and pepper to season
• Olive oil - preferably extra virgin, cold pressed

Cooking Instructions

This recipe is super easy , it just takes a little bit of time as it sits on the stove for awhile. Here we go. 

- Mix the flour and turmeric together in a bowl and season with salt and pepper

- Coat the lamb in the flour mixture. Discard the left over flour mixture once lamb is coated. 

- Brown the onion in a large saucepan with the olive oil and and once it is translucent, add the lamb

- Brown the lamb, add the red wine and bring to the boil

- Turn heat down to low and let it gently simmer for 45 minutes

- Add the chicken stock, carrots, fennel, potatoes and parsnips, bring to the boil again

- Reduce heat to a very low simmer and simmer for an hour

- Add mushrooms and simmer for another 1 and 1/2 hours

- If the sauce isn't as thick as you would like you can add a bit of cornflour to thicken it, or let it simmer with the lid off to reduce the amount of liquid. I like to serve this dish over creamy polenta. Mmmm... so good. 

Last piece of wintery advice. Keep your neck covered and warm. In TCM, it is important to keep your neck covered when it gets cold and windy. Wind is one of the Six Evils in Chinese medicine and likes to invade via our necks when our pores are open. Ever heard your Acupuncturist say you have a Wind-Cold or Wind-Heat Invasion? Wind is generally be accompanied by either Cold or Heat and so a Wind-Cold or Wind-Heat Invasion is equal to a nasty cold. A stiff neck is usually the first sign so if you visit your Acupuncturist as soon as you notice this, you will often be able to reduce the severity and length of the cold, or even avoid it altogether! 

Disclaimer: I am a registered Acupuncturist and this blog reflects my own personal opinions and research. It should in no way be used as a means to self diagnose and it is my responsibility as a health practitioner to recommend that you seek out a professional who is legally qualified to diagnose your condition. 

Jacinta Eales
GO2 Acupuncture

Most people would agree a massage makes them feel good. But many probably don't realize exactly how good a regular massage is for their overall health. How about if they knew massage could improve performance, aid recovery, prevent and eliminate injuries, reduce stress and even enhance metabolism and circulation!

Most people would agree a massage makes them feel good. But many probably don't realize exactly how good a regular massage is for their overall health. How about if they knew massage could improve performance, aid recovery, prevent and eliminate injuries, reduce stress and even enhance metabolism and circulation!

It may simply look like a lot of pressing and kneading on skin, but massage is actually a scientific process. The reason you feel different after a massage is because it is healing and invigorating tired, aching or injured muscles. Pretty much everyone will benefit from a massage!

Why should I give massage a try?

• Massage Increases the blood's oxygen capacity by 10-15%
• Helps loosen contracted, shortened muscles and stimulate weak muscles.
• Improves posture and promotes more efficient movement;
• Speeds recovery from exercise and reduces fatigue;
• Increases production of gastric juices, saliva and urine;
• It increases metabolic rate.
• Balances the nervous system by soothing or stimulating it, 
• Improves function of the oil and sweat glands that lubricate, clean and cool the skin. 
• dramatically aids lymph movement, which together with blood, supplies nutrients and oxygen and rids wastes and toxins.

What are the benefits of receiving a massage alongside other health professionals?

A quick 30-minute massage before your Physio, ex phys or acupuncture appointment will dramatically improve the quality of your treatment. Having a massage prior to any of these professions will enable your muscles to be lengthened, relaxed and functioning correctly, therefore enabling your body to reap maximum benefits.

Will getting a massage frequently be good for my health?

Taking part in this form of regularly scheduled self-care can play a huge part in how healthy you'll be and how youthful you'll remain with each passing year. Budgeting time and money for bodywork at consistent intervals is truly an investment in your health. And remember: just because massage feels like a pampering treat doesn't mean it is any less therapeutic. Consider massage appointments a necessary piece of your health and wellness plan, and work with your therapist to establish a treatment schedule that best meets your needs.

 

Emily Smyth
GO2 Massage Therapist

 

 

 

Have you have been suffering neck, shoulder or lower back pain or tightness and have been unsuccessful in addressing it?

Have you have been suffering neck, shoulder or lower back pain or tightness and have been unsuccessful in addressing it?

Perhaps it is worth considering Thoracic spine mobility. Quiet often we focus on the areas we experience pain but forget to think about why the pain has occurred in the first place. Both the neck, shoulder and lower back all rely heavily on movement generated at the Thoracic spine to enable full range of motion, thus limited mobility in this region can have a flow on affect to common pain areas.

With many job roles requiring extended periods of sitting, computer use or driving, a lot of us have adopted patterns of forward head positions, rounded shoulders and increased curvature through our thoracic spine.

The two exercises in the video are designed to address these bad postures and reinforce joint mobility in extension and rotation which are primary roles of the Thoracic spine.

Remember neither of these exercises should reproduce any of your symptoms. If you have any issues or your symptoms aren't improving book an appointment with one of the Physiotherapist at Go2 Health and we will be happy to work with you to ensure a positive outcome.

Eoin Quinn BPhyt (hons) BAppSc (Human Movement Studies – Exercise Science)
GO2 Physiotherapist

Have you have been suffering neck, shoulder or lower back pain or tightness and have been unsuccessful in addressing it?

Have you have been suffering neck, shoulder or lower back pain or tightness and have been unsuccessful in addressing it?

Perhaps it is worth considering Thoracic spine mobility. Quiet often we focus on the areas we experience pain but forget to think about why the pain has occurred in the first place. Both the neck, shoulder and lower back all rely heavily on movement generated at the Thoracic spine to enable full range of motion, thus limited mobility in this region can have a flow on affect to common pain areas.

With many job roles requiring extended periods of sitting, computer use or driving, a lot of us have adopted patterns of forward head positions, rounded shoulders and increased curvature through our thoracic spine.

The two exercises in the video are designed to address these bad postures and reinforce joint mobility in extension and rotation which are primary roles of the Thoracic spine.

Remember neither of these exercises should reproduce any of your symptoms. If you have any issues or your symptoms aren't improving book an appointment with one of the Physiotherapist at Go2 Health and we will be happy to work with you to ensure a positive outcome.

Eoin Quinn BPhyt (hons) BAppSc (Human Movement Studies – Exercise Science)
GO2 Physiotherapist

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is defined as an exposure to a traumatic physical or emotional event that causes re-experience of the occurrence, avoidance of triggers, development of negative thoughts and moods, and chronic hyper-arousal symptoms.

What is PTSD and Irritable Bowel Syndrom (IBS)?

Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is defined as an exposure to a traumatic physical or emotional event that causes re-experience of the occurrence, avoidance of triggers, development of negative thoughts and moods, and chronic hyper-arousal symptoms.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional gastrointestinal disorder characterized by abdominal discomfort and change in bowel habit. It can cause significant distress and embarrassment. Known as a ‘21 st century’ condition, dietary factors can play a major role. It is a diagnosis by exclusion, meaning no obvious pathology is usually found.

We now believe that psychosocial stressors play an important role in irritable bowel syndrome, and significant numbers of those with PTSD also suffer from IBS.

What to do If you have PTSD and Symptons of IBS?

If you have PTSD and the symptoms of IBS, come and talk with our doctors. If a causal link can be found, DVA may approve a claim for IBS and facilitate treatment. Managing any associated physical conditions is an important part of managing your mental health.

What is PTSD and Erectile Dysfunction?

PTSD and Erectile Dysfunction Erectile Dysfunction (ED) can be a complex mix of plumbing problems, hormonal imbalance and psychosocial factors (including psychiatric medication). It is common amongst the psychologically damaged veteran cohort.

PTSD impairs sexual functioning across multiple domains: desire, arousal, orgasm, activity, and satisfaction. The most commonly reported problems are erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and overall sexual disinterest.

Testosterone levels are often below normal in this cohort; conversely the source of the ED may be just medication with a normal hormone profile. 

What to do If you have PTSD and Erectile Dysfuntion?

Treatment involves counselling, medication review, sometimes testosterone replacement but generally drugs such as Cialis or Viagra. ED can have devastating effects on self esteem and self worth, as well as relationships. Come and discuss your particular problem with our doctors. If a causal link can be found, DVA may approve a claim for ED and facilitate treatment.

What is GO2 Veterans?

At Go2 Health our doctors are experienced in dealing with the Department of Veterans’ Affairs - DVA and helping with claims. Go2 Health has a long history of supporting our ex-military both physically and emotionally.

Dr Kieran McCarthy is an ex Army doctor with five operational tours. As the practice principal and one of the owners of GO2 Health, he is passionate about providing quality medical care to our veterans and their families.

Dr Ian Fraser is a GP from Townsville with 40 years experience managing PTSD and DVA patients. He owned one of the biggest DVA friendly practices in Townsville. Having recently relocated to Brisbane, Ian brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our team, and is taking new patients.

In helping you with your DVA claims, our doctors understand the importance of referring to the DVA ‘Statement of Principles’, to ensure the claim has the highest chance of being linked to Service and approved – therefore facilitiating treatment. Having a good RSL Advocate can be a critical part of this process, and we have strong relationships with a number of Advocates across Brisbane.

Dr Kieran McCarthy (MBBS, FRACGP, MPH, FAWM)
GO2 Doctor

Dr Ian Fraser (MRCS, LRCP)
GO2 Doctor

If you’ve been following the recent fitness trends you’ve probably heard of Pilates. Pilates is a type of exercise that was originally developed to enhance the performance of ballet dancers. 

If you’ve been following the recent fitness trends you’ve probably heard of Pilates. Pilates is a type of exercise that was originally developed to enhance the performance of ballet dancers. It uses equipment and machines to strengthen and lengthen muscles, improve posture and increase flexibility. “The core is the powerhouse of the body” is the main principle behind Pilates. If you have a strong core, you enable the rest of you body to function in the most efficient way.

Did you know that Pilates can be used to treat a large variety of injuries?

Pilates is often associated with pregnancy, new mums, and back pain. However, it is really important that all stability muscles in your body are strong and working effectively to treat and prevent injury. Pilates focuses on posture and activation of stability muscles to provide a strong base for all movements. Whether you have hurt your shoulder or have had knee pain for years, Pilates can help to address the imbalances in your muscle system and get you moving in a more efficient way.

Pilates is a great way to increase strength and length in your muscles. If you traditionally enjoy more intense or heavy weights training and are plagued by niggling injuries or have reached a plateau, often your core is holding you back. It is also an excellent way to complement your physiotherapy, acupuncture or massage treatment as part of your rehab program.

Give GO2 Health a call now to secure your initial Pilates appointment at 20% off for the month of May. Health fund rebates apply.

Emily Field
GO2 Physiotherapist