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Unburdening Bursitis Bursitis might not be a household term, but for those who experience it, it’s an unwelcome guest in daily life. Bursitis occurs when bursae—small, fluid-filled sacs around joints—become inflamed. These sacs act as cushions between bones, tendons, and muscles near joints, minimizing friction and allowing smooth movement. When bursae are irritated, however, pain and swelling can make even simple movements challenging. Here’s what you need to know about recognizing, preventing, and managing bursitis, including how chiropractic and massage care can offer relief. What are the Symptoms of Bursitis? Common symptoms of bursitis include: Localized Pain : The pain usually centers around the affected joint and can intensify with movement or pressure. Swelling and Warmth : The area might appear swollen and feel warm to the touch. Limited Range of Motion : Stiffness or difficulty moving the affected joint is common, especially if the shoulder, elbow, hip, or knee is involved. Tenderness : Even light pressure on the inflamed area can cause significant discomfort. While bursitis can affect any joint, it’s most frequently found in larger, high-use joints like the shoulders, elbows, hips, and knees. How Does Bursitis Occur? Bursitis is often the result of repetitive movements or prolonged pressure on a joint. Here are some common culprits: Repetitive Motion : Jobs or hobbies requiring repetitive motion—like painting, gardening, or throwing—can stress a joint over time. Sudden Injury : A fall, direct impact, or sudden increase in activity can trigger inflammation in a bursa. Poor Posture : Slouching, lifting improperly, or sitting for long periods without support can lead to bursitis. Underlying Conditions : Conditions like arthritis or gout can also irritate bursae and lead to bursitis. Understanding what might cause bursitis can help you avoid it, especially if you’re at a higher risk due to lifestyle or activities. Preventing Bursitis Prevention is key, especially for those in physically demanding jobs or who engage in repetitive activities. Here are some tips: Practice Good Posture : Whether at work or home, using ergonomics can relieve pressure on your joints. Take Breaks : Avoid staying in the same position for long periods, especially if you’re doing repetitive tasks. Warm Up Properly : Before exercise or physical activity, a proper warm-up can help reduce the risk of joint strain. Strengthen Supporting Muscles : Exercises that strengthen the muscles around your joints can reduce stress on bursae. Treating Bursitis Treatment for bursitis generally focuses on reducing pain, inflammation, and pressure on the affected area. Here are some options: Rest and Ice : Resting the joint and applying ice can help alleviate pain and swelling in the initial stages. Anti-inflammatory Medications : Over-the-counter medications, like ibuprofen, can help reduce inflammation. Stretching and Strengthening : Guided physical therapy or simple stretching exercises can help restore range of motion. Chiropractic and Massage Care for Bursitis Chiropractic adjustments can help relieve pressure on joints, encouraging proper alignment and easing joint stress, which may help reduce inflammation. By improving posture and restoring joint function, chiropractic care can support faster healing. This is not an immediate fix; often times inflamed joints may take several visits to calm down but having a positive attitude about your care makes a big difference. Massage therapy is another valuable tool for bursitis relief. Therapeutic massage can help reduce tension around the affected joint, ease pain, and improve circulation, which supports the body’s natural healing process. In a medical office, therapists can target specific muscle groups around the bursa, offering gentle, customized care to relieve pain without further irritating the joint. If you’re dealing with the nagging discomfort of bursitis, chiropractic and massage care can offer effective, evidence-based solutions for relief. Reclaim comfort and mobility with professional guidance tailored to support your unique recovery needs. Bethany Wolcott D’Youville Chiropractic ‘26

Cranial Sacral Massage (CSM) is a therapeutic technique that offers a unique approach to enhancing overall health. If you’ve never heard of it, or are curious to learn more, here are ten things you probably didn’t know about this fascinating therapy. 1. It Targets the Central Nervous System Cranial Sacral Massage focuses on the soft tissues and fluids surrounding the brain and spinal cord. By applying light pressure, practitioners can influence the flow of cerebrospinal fluid, which in turn helps to improve the function of the central nervous system. 2. It’s More Than Just a Head Massage While the name might suggest that it’s all about the head, CSM actually involves gentle manipulation of the entire craniosacral system, which includes the head, neck, and spine all the way down to a triangle shaped bone at the end of your spine called the sacrum. This approach aims to release tension and improve the body’s natural healing processes. 3. Its Roots Date Back to the Early 20th Century The foundations of Cranial Sacral Massage were laid in the early 1900s by Dr. William Sutherland, an osteopathic physician. He believed that the subtle movements of the cranial bones were crucial to overall health—a theory that later evolved into the practice of Cranial Sacral Therapy. 4. It Was Further Developed in the 1970s Dr. John Upledger, another osteopathic physician, expanded on Sutherland’s work in the 1970s. He conducted research that led to the development of modern Cranial Sacral Therapy, which is now widely recognized as an effective treatment for various conditions. 5. It’s Gentle and Non-Invasive One of the most appealing aspects of Cranial Sacral Massage is its gentle nature. The pressure applied during a session is often no more than the weight of a nickel, making it a safe and non-invasive option for people of all ages. 6. It Can Help with Headaches and Migraines If you suffer from frequent headaches or migraines, CSM may offer relief. By releasing tension in the craniosacral system, this therapy can reduce the severity and frequency of headaches. 7. It’s Beneficial for Chronic Pain Cranial Sacral Massage has been found to alleviate chronic pain conditions, such as fibromyalgia. By improving the function of the central nervous system, CSM helps to reduce pain and improve quality of life. 8. It Promotes Relaxation CSM is an excellent option for those dealing with stress or anxiety. The gentle touch used during a session promotes deep relaxation, helping to calm the nervous system and reduce overall stress levels. 9. It Can Improve Sleep If you’re struggling with sleep disorders, CSM might be worth exploring. This therapy can help improve sleep quality by balancing the sleep-wake cycle and calming the nervous system. 10. You Can Experience It at Peak Performance At Peak Performance in Buffalo, NY, our skilled practitioners are trained in the latest Cranial Sacral Massage techniques. Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain, stress, or simply want to improve your overall wellness, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and discover the benefits of Cranial Sacral Massage for yourself

Origins of Himalayan Salt Stone Massage

If you're seeking a unique path to relaxation and healing, look no further than Reiki massage. Unlike traditional massages that primarily focus on physical manipulation, Reiki combines gentle touch and energy healing to rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit. Let's dive into what makes Reiki massage a truly transformative experience. What is Reiki Massage? Reiki, pronounced "ray-kee," is a Japanese healing technique that means "universal life energy." It involves a practitioner using their hands to channel energy into the patient, promoting healing and balance. Reiki massage blends this energy work with the soothing techniques of traditional massage, creating a holistic treatment that targets both physical and energetic blockages. A Brief History of Reiki The origins of Reiki date back to the early 20th century when Dr. Mikao Usui, a Japanese Buddhist, developed the practice. After a profound spiritual experience, Dr. Usui dedicated his life to teaching Reiki, spreading its benefits worldwide. Today, Reiki is recognized as a complementary therapy, embraced by many for its ability to enhance overall well-being. How Reiki Massage Differs from Regular Massage While a traditional massage focuses on kneading muscles and relieving physical tension, Reiki massage adds an extra dimension. During a Reiki session, our skilled practitioners place their hands lightly on or just above your body in specific positions, allowing energy to flow where it's needed most. The result? A deeply relaxing experience that not only eases muscle tension but also harmonizes your energetic field, addressing stress, anxiety, and emotional blockages. Who Can Benefit from Reiki Massage? Reiki massage is for everyone! Whether you're a stressed-out professional, a busy parent, or someone simply looking to improve their health, Reiki has something to offer. It’s particularly beneficial for those dealing with chronic pain, emotional imbalances, or high levels of stress. Reiki promotes deep relaxation, reduces anxiety, and can even enhance your body's natural healing processes. Experience Reiki at Peak Performance At our Buffalo office, we pride ourselves on offering top-notch care. Our licensed massage therapists are not only skilled in traditional techniques but are also trained Reiki practitioners. They bring a wealth of knowledge and a gentle touch to each session, ensuring you receive the most comprehensive care possible. Ready to experience the magic of Reiki massage? Book your appointment today and let our expert therapists guide you to a state of blissful relaxation and healing. After all, life’s too short for stress and tension—embrace the healing power of Reiki and rediscover your balance at Peak Performance. Bethany Wolcott D’Youville Chiropractic ‘26

Are you looking for a natural and effective way to boost your immune system, reduce swelling, and enhance your overall health? Lymphatic drainage massage could be the perfect solution. At our Buffalo chiropractic and massage office, we specialize in this therapeutic technique, helping clients feel rejuvenated and healthier. What is Lymphatic Drainage Massage? Lymphatic drainage massage is a gentle, rhythmic massage technique designed to stimulate the flow of lymph fluid throughout the body. The lymphatic system plays a crucial role in maintaining your immune system, transporting lymph—a fluid containing white blood cells, proteins, and waste products—throughout your body. Unlike blood, which is pumped by the heart, lymph relies on the movement of muscles to circulate. This is where lymphatic drainage massage comes in. How Does It Work? Our skilled massage therapists use light pressure and rhythmic, circular motions to stimulate lymph flow. This helps to reduce blockages and improve the function of your lymphatic system. The massage typically focuses on the key lymph nodes and pathways, ensuring that lymph is efficiently moved toward the lymphatic ducts, where it can be filtered and detoxified by the body. Benefits of Lymphatic Drainage Massage Reduced Swelling and Inflammation: By promoting the removal of excess fluid and toxins, lymphatic drainage massage can help decrease swelling, particularly beneficial for individuals with lymphedema. Improved Immune Function: Enhancing lymph flow boosts your immune system, helping your body fight off infections more effectively. Detoxification: This massage helps eliminate waste products from your tissues, leading to a cleaner, healthier body. Enhanced Circulation: Encouraging fluid movement can improve overall circulation and help reduce issues related to poor blood flow. Relaxation and Stress Relief: The gentle, rhythmic motions of the massage promote deep relaxation, reducing stress and its negative impacts on your health. Who Can Benefit? I ndividuals with Chronic Diseases: Those suffering from conditions such as fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, or autoimmune disorders can experience significant relief from symptoms through improved lymphatic function. They can often experience a build-up of fluid throughout the body and may need external therapy to move the lymph around. Limited Mobility Patients: People who are less mobile due to age, injury, or disability can benefit immensely. Lymphatic drainage massage can help reduce swelling and improve circulation, alleviating discomfort and promoting better health, especially for those who may not be able to move on their own.  Post-Surgery Patients : After surgery, lymphatic drainage massage can accelerate recovery by reducing swelling and enhancing the removal of cellular waste products. This is particularly beneficial for those recovering from cosmetic surgery or procedures that involve significant tissue trauma. Experience Our Comprehensive Care At our Buffalo chiropractic and massage office, we are dedicated to your overall well-being. Our skilled chiropractors and massage therapists work together to provide holistic care tailored to your needs. Whether you’re seeking relief from chronic pain, recovering from surgery, or simply aiming to boost your health, our services can help you achieve your goals. Don’t wait to experience the transformative benefits of lymphatic drainage massage. Book an appointment with us today and take the first step towards a healthier, more vibrant you! Bethany Wolcott D’Youville Chiropractic ‘26

When it comes to relaxation and rejuvenation, massage therapy is evergreen. Within the realm of massage techniques, hot stone and cold stone massages stand out as unique and effective methods for soothing both the body and mind. But how do you choose between the two? Let's delve into the nuances of each to help you make an informed decision. Hot Stone Massage: A Therapeutic Heat Experience Hot stone massage involves the placement of smooth, heated stones on specific points of the body. These stones are typically made of basalt, a type of volcanic rock that retains heat exceptionally well. Our skilled LMTs use the stones as an extension of their hands to massage the body. One of the primary benefits of hot stone massage is its ability to promote deep relaxation. The heat from the stones helps to loosen muscles, allowing the therapist to work more effectively on areas of tension. This type of massage can also improve blood circulation and relieve chronic pain, making it an excellent choice for individuals dealing with muscle stiffness or soreness. During a hot stone massage, clients can expect to feel a comforting warmth spreading through their body. The sensation of the heated stones gliding over the skin induces a sense of relaxation and tranquility, melting away stress and tension. Cold Stone Massage: A Refreshing Chill In contrast, cold stone massage utilizes smooth, chilled stones to provide a refreshing and invigorating experience. These stones are often made of marble, which naturally stays cool. The therapist may use the stones to massage the body or place them on specific points to alleviate inflammation and reduce swelling. One of the key benefits of cold stone massage is its ability to decrease inflammation and soothe sore muscles. The cool temperature of the stones helps to constrict blood vessels, which can reduce swelling and alleviate discomfort. This makes cold stone massage an excellent choice for individuals recovering from injuries or dealing with chronic pain conditions. During a cold stone massage, clients can expect to feel a cooling sensation spreading across their skin. This refreshing experience can help to awaken the senses and provide relief from heat or discomfort. Fire and Ice Massage Exactly as it sounds, fire and ice massage combines the benefits of both hot and cold stones. With the heat from the basalt stones loosening up muscles and the cold stones reducing inflammation, there is a balance within the body that leads to total relaxation and rejuvenation. The blend of Eastern and Western techniques creates an amazing therapeutic treatment that our LMTs are happy to offer. Choosing the Right Massage for You When deciding between hot stone and cold stone massage, consider your individual preferences and health needs. If you're seeking deep relaxation and relief from muscle tension, a hot stone massage may be the ideal choice. On the other hand, if you're looking to reduce inflammation and soothe sore muscles, a cold stone massage could be more beneficial. And don't forget—you can always combine the two with fire and ice! At our Buffalo chiropractic and massage office, we offer treatments, like hot stone and cold stone massages, that are tailored to meet your specific needs. Whichever you choose, you're sure to experience a blissful journey toward relaxation and wellness under the expert care of our skilled therapists. Bethany Wolcott D’Youville Chiropractic ‘26

Headaches come in various forms, each with its own distinct characteristics and triggers. Among the most common types are migraines, cluster headaches, and tension headaches. While they may share some similarities, understanding their differences is crucial for effective management and relief. Migraines are intense, throbbing headaches often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound and they can last for several hours to days. They are believed to be caused by abnormal brain activity affecting nerves, chemicals, and blood vessels in the brain. Triggers can vary widely from person to person, including stress, hormonal changes, certain foods, and environmental factors. Many people experience an “aura” beforehand which are sensory disturbances that can include a variety of symptoms. These can include a sensitivity to light, sound, smells, and even taste. Most commonly, people will get flashes of light, blind spots, or tingling in their hands or face 5-60 minutes before the onset of pain. Relief from migraines is typically provided in one of two ways: medications and/or lifestyle changes. Many people are helped by over-the-counter medications but others may be better helped by prescription medications. Lifestyle changes include managing stress and avoiding known triggers. Cluster headaches are excruciatingly painful headaches that occur in cyclical patterns or clusters, often around the same time of day or year. They are thought to be related to abnormalities in the hypothalamus, the part of the brain that controls body temperature, hormones, and sleep. With cluster headaches there is no aura and pain tends to be centered behind the temple and eye on one side; these headaches occur most often in males in their 40s and 50s. Triggers can include alcohol consumption, high altitudes, and certain foods. Cluster headaches are best relieved by oxygen therapy, though there are other options. Oxygen therapy is the inhalation of 100% oxygen over a 15-minute period, usually administered at a neurology office. Other methods include prescription medications, nerve blocks, and lifestyle changes. Tension headaches are characterized by a dull, aching pain and pressure around the forehead, temples, and back of the head—often referred to as the hat band distribution. Tension headaches tend to last 30 minutes to a few hours—very rarely will these last for days. They are usually caused by muscle tension in the neck and scalp, which can result from stress, poor posture, or anxiety. Relief from tension headaches is wide-ranging. Over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and NSAIDs (ibuprofen) are among the most common solutions. Other effective methods include relaxation techniques, heat, and massage therapy. Prevention for all three kinds of headaches includes avoiding triggers such as limiting alcohol and caffeine consumption and smoking cessation. Additionally, maintaining a regular sleep schedule, staying hydrated, having good posture, and regular exercise can help you avoid these. And of course, seeking chiropractic care and massage therapy for tension relief and spinal alignment is a great way to prevent headaches.  Understanding the differences between migraines, cluster headaches, and tension headaches is essential for effective management and prevention. While each type may require specific treatment approaches, chiropractic care and massage therapy can play a valuable role in relieving tension, promoting relaxation, and enhancing overall well-being. By incorporating these holistic approaches into your headache management plan, you can work towards finding relief and enjoying a better quality of life. Come visit your local Buffalo chiropractors and massage therapists at Peak Performance and tell your providers if you suffer from headaches! Bethany Wolcott D’Youville Chiropractic ‘26

Reflexology isn’t just about foot massages—it’s a holistic healing approach that focuses on pressure points in the feet, hands, and ears that correspond to different organs and systems in the body. It’s like a map where every point leads to a specific destination in your body’s highway of health.  Originating from ancient China and Egypt, reflexology has stood the test of time for good reason. Imagine your feet as the control panel for your body; by applying targeted pressure and massage techniques to these points, our specialized licensed massage therapists aim to stimulate energy flow and promote balance throughout your entire system. There are a myriad of benefits to reflexology which include: Stress Relief: Life can be hectic, and our bodies often bear the brunt of our busy schedules. Reflexology helps to melt away stress and tension, leaving you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. Improved Circulation: By stimulating blood flow, reflexology can enhance circulation, which in turn supports the body’s natural healing processes and promotes overall wellness. Pain Management: Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain or discomfort from a specific condition, reflexology can offer relief by targeting the corresponding pressure points. Enhanced Sleep: Reflexology can help calm the mind and body, making it easier to drift off into a restful slumber and improve your sleep quality. Boosted Immunity: By promoting balance and harmony within the body, reflexology can strengthen the immune system, helping you ward off illnesses and stay healthy. At our chiropractic and massage office in Buffalo, NY, we’re dedicated to helping our clients achieve optimal health and wellness. Incorporating reflexology into your wellness routine can be a transformative experience, offering holistic benefits for your body, mind, and spirit. Ready to experience the healing power of reflexology for yourself? Schedule a session with us today and take the first step towards a healthier, more balanced life—your body will thank you. Bethany Wolcott D’Youville Chiropractic ‘26

If you’ve ever seen someone at your gym walking around with huge, perfectly round bruises on their back and wondered what happened to them, you should see the other guy—as in, you should see a licensed massage therapist!  LMT’s do a form of therapy called cupping. Cupping is a therapeutic technique that involves multiple cups that can be made of different materials such as glass, plastic, or silicone. The therapist uses the cups to create a vacuum that draws blood to that area of the skin. This leads to the circles of bruising that you may have seen around Buffalo. It’s believed that the force of the suction draws enough blood to the area that smaller capillaries expand and can burst beneath the surface of the skin. More blood will be sent to the area to repair and stimulate healing at a cellular level and also release toxins. This technique also loosens the muscle tissue in the area, increases lymph flow, and relaxes the nervous system. Cupping is a deep-tissue therapy that helps with scar tissue, knots, muscle tension, and swelling. Additional benefits of cupping include increased blood flow to the area, pain relief, increased inflammation and healing, and relaxation. Cupping can be a great recovery method for athletes as well as a relief for those with chronic pain. It can be done on the back, arms, legs, and other areas. Athletes with sore muscles need to promote tissue healing from the increased load and stress that has been placed on their bodies. Getting more blood flow to the area is a great way to do that and speed up the process. Likewise, cupping can ease the symptoms of chronic pain issues such as arthritis, carpal tunnel syndrome, low back pain, and migraines. The powerful effect of increased blood flow and inflammation is one of the reasons that cupping has been practiced for hundreds of years. Recently, one of our own chiropractors Dr. Sarah Novotny began offering her cupping services for one to two areas of the body. This is a quicker appointment for focused areas versus massage therapy which is more of a whole-body experience in conjunction with massage and relaxation. Come see your local Buffalo massage therapists and chiropractors to give cupping a try and get those red circles on your back too! Bethany Wolcott D’Youville Chiropractic ‘26