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Choosing the Right Tool for Relief In recent years, both rapid release therapy devices and massage guns have gained popularity for providing muscle relief and relaxation at home and in clinical settings. At our office, we use rapid release in most patient appointments, and we’ve recently started selling a convenient mini version for patients who want to use it outside of the clinic. But how do these devices compare, and which might be the right fit for you? Let’s break down what each tool offers, the benefits, and how they differ to help you make the best choice for your muscle care needs. Rapid Release Therapy: The Power of Vibration Rapid release therapy (RRT) devices are specialized tools that use high-frequency vibration, typically in the 170 Hz range, to release tension and improve soft tissue health. The high-speed, low-amplitude vibration works on a smaller, more targeted scale than a typical massage gun, allowing it to focus on specific, tight areas—making it ideal for addressing muscle knots, scar tissue, and minor joint pain. This precision makes it a go-to in our clinic for patients who need focused, professional-grade treatment. Since we’ve introduced a mini version, RRT is now available for home use, bringing many of the clinic benefits to your own space. The mini rapid release is easy to use on targeted areas, especially helpful for those who frequently deal with sore spots or muscle tightness. While it is typically more expensive than most massage guns, its therapeutic benefits—especially for chronic pain or scar tissue issues—make it a worthwhile investment. Massage Guns: Broad-Stroke Relief Massage guns, often seen in gyms and wellness stores, are percussive therapy devices that use slower, high-amplitude strokes to penetrate deeper into the muscle tissue. This “pounding” motion works well for larger muscle groups and offers broader muscle relief, making it popular for post-workout recovery or for warming up tight areas before a workout. With a variety of attachments, massage guns are versatile and cover more ground quickly, making them a great option for those who need to treat larger areas, such as the thighs, back, or calves. Massage guns are typically less expensive than rapid release devices, and they’re widely accessible, making them an appealing choice for general use. However, because they operate at lower frequencies and use a more intense motion, they may not be ideal for sensitive areas or anyone dealing with injury-prone tissues. Which is the Better Fit? Both rapid release therapy and massage guns offer effective muscle relief, but they excel in different areas. Rapid release therapy is an excellent choice for anyone seeking precision and depth, especially those dealing with scar tissue, chronic pain, or targeted muscle knots. Its high-frequency vibration works efficiently on sensitive or injury-prone areas without the intensity of a massage gun’s percussive motion. For patients needing a more professional-grade option, rapid release therapy delivers powerful benefits. On the other hand, if you’re looking for an at-home device for general muscle relief, a massage gun may be a better fit. It’s a versatile and affordable option for covering large areas quickly, making it great for daily maintenance or workout recovery. Your Choice, Your Relief Choosing between a rapid release device and a massage gun comes down to your unique needs. Whether it’s pinpoint relief or broader muscle recovery, both devices can play a valuable role in your muscle care routine. And if you’re interested in experiencing the difference, ask us about trying rapid release therapy during your next appointment! Bethany Wolcott D’Youville Chiropractic ‘26

When it comes to finding support (literally), canes, crutches, and walkers can be lifesavers. These devices help people maintain mobility, regain independence, and reduce the risk of falls. But to get the best results, knowing how to use each one properly is key. So, let’s dive into the basics to keep you moving with confidence and ease! Cane You Handle This? A cane is a fantastic aid for those who need a little extra stability and support for a single leg. But here’s the trick—if your right leg needs help, hold the cane on your left side. Counterintuitive? Maybe, but it’s all about balance. Using the cane on the opposite side of the affected leg allows it to better support your weight when you step forward with the “weaker” side. This cross-body balance improves stability and puts less strain on your joints. So, remember: opposite leg, same cane! To walk properly with a cane: Place the cane in front of you as you step with your weaker leg. Shift your weight onto the cane, letting it do its job. Step through with your stronger leg, and repeat! Crutch the Right Way Crutches are the go-to choice for people needing complete relief of weight on one leg. They allow the unaffected leg to take the lead while sparing the injured one. But it’s not enough to just “wing it” with crutches. Position is everything. Make sure your crutches are about an inch below your armpits when you’re standing, with your elbows slightly bent. This helps avoid that dreaded armpit pinch while giving you stable control. For stairs, remember this handy rule: “Up with the good, down with the bad.” Going up: Step up with your good leg first, then bring the crutches and injured leg up. Going down: Move the crutches down to the next step first, then follow with your injured leg, and finally your good leg. This method keeps you steady and ensures the good leg leads the way up and down. Walking Tall with a Walker When you need even more support, walkers are there to the rescue. Walkers are ideal for those needing maximum balance assistance, whether due to surgery, weakness, or stability issues. First, make sure your walker is the right height—your elbows should have a slight bend, and the walker should line up with the crease of your wrist when standing upright. To move forward with a walker: Push it a step ahead of you (about an arm’s length). Step in with your weaker leg, using the walker to support your weight. Follow with your stronger leg, and repeat. Again, for stairs, follow the “Up with the good, down with the bad” rule if your walker is collapsible or a therapist is guiding you. When in Doubt, Ask the Pros! Using these devices is a science and an art. If you’re ever unsure or find using these devices tricky, don’t hesitate to ask your doctor or healthcare provider for a quick tutorial. They can provide helpful tips or adjust your device to ensure it fits your specific needs. With the right device and a bit of know-how, you’ll be walking, crutching, and striding confidently! Bethany Wolcott D’Youville Chiropractic ‘26

Explore the benefits of Reiki in Buffalo, NY, and learn how this holistic therapy can help reduce stress, promote relaxation, and enhance overall wellness.

Acupuncture—just the thought of needles might make you wince, but hear us out! This ancient practice is more than just poking holes in people. Originating in China over 2,500 years ago, acupuncture is rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine and has stuck around (pun intended!) for a reason. It works by restoring balance to the body’s flow of energy, known as "Qi" (pronounced "chee"). And don’t worry, it’s way less intense than it sounds. How Does Acupuncture Work? Acupuncture involves inserting very fine needles into specific points on the body to encourage healing, reduce pain, and promote overall wellness. The practice is based on the idea that energy, or "Qi" (pronounced “chee”), flows through channels in the body. By stimulating specific points along these channels, acupuncture can help restore balance and relieve symptoms. Modern interpretations also suggest that acupuncture works by stimulating the nervous system, releasing endorphins, and increasing circulation—key elements in pain relief and recovery. Different Types of Acupuncture Services Not all acupuncture is the same, and depending on your needs, there’s a variety to choose from: Traditional Acupuncture: This is the classic approach, where needles are placed at specific points to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes. It’s great for a wide range of conditions, including chronic pain, stress, and digestive issues. Dry Needling: Often used by athletes or those dealing with musculoskeletal pain, dry needling targets trigger points in the muscles to relieve tension. While similar to acupuncture, it focuses on releasing tight muscle bands and easing discomfort in specific areas. Sports Acupuncture: Designed with athletes in mind, sports acupuncture helps optimize performance, speed up recovery, and reduce the risk of injury. This service blends traditional acupuncture with modern sports medicine principles, making it a top choice for active individuals. Electroacupuncture: In this form of acupuncture, a mild electrical current is applied to the needles. Don’t worry, it’s not as wild as it sounds! The electrical stimulation enhances the therapeutic effects, making it a powerful tool for treating chronic pain, inflammation, and muscle stiffness. Who Can Benefit? Acupuncture is a versatile therapy that can be beneficial for a wide variety of people. It’s commonly used for: Chronic Pain Relief: Conditions like back pain, arthritis, and headaches often respond well to acupuncture. Stress Reduction: Acupuncture can help calm the nervous system, making it effective for people dealing with stress, anxiety, or sleep disturbances. Athletes and Active Individuals: Whether you’re recovering from an injury or looking to improve performance, sports and dry needling acupuncture can be game-changers. Adding Acupuncture to Your Care Plan While we specialize in chiropractic and massage care, acupuncture can be a wonderful addition to a well-rounded wellness plan. If you're interested, we’re happy to refer you to skilled acupuncturists who can help you explore this healing practice. The world of acupuncture offers diverse approaches to health—whether you’re managing pain, reducing stress, or optimizing your athletic performance. Let us know at your next visit, and we’ll connect you with a trusted professional in our network! Bethany Wolcott D’Youville Chiropractic ‘26

Have you ever been winding down after a long day, ready to sink into the couch with your favorite show, only to feel an overwhelming urge to move your legs? You’re not alone. Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide, often striking during the quiet moments when you just want to relax. What is Restless Leg Syndrome? Restless Leg Syndrome is exactly what it sounds like—a neurological condition that gives you an uncontrollable urge to move your legs, usually because of an uncomfortable sensation. These sensations are often described as tingling, itching, or crawling feelings that make it hard to keep your legs still. The kicker? These symptoms are most likely to show up in the evening or at night, just when you're trying to unwind or get some sleep. Why Does Restless Leg Syndrome Happen? The exact cause of RLS isn’t fully understood, but it’s believed to be related to dopamine, a neurotransmitter that helps control muscle movements. When dopamine levels are low or its signals are disrupted, it can lead to the involuntary leg movements associated with RLS. Several factors can increase your risk of developing RLS, including genetics, iron deficiency, pregnancy, and certain chronic conditions like diabetes or peripheral neuropathy. Even lifestyle factors, such as lack of sleep or excessive caffeine intake, can trigger or worsen symptoms. Preventing Restless Leg Syndrome While some causes of RLS are out of our control, there are a few steps you can take to reduce your risk of experiencing these annoying symptoms. Get Moving: Regular physical activity can help keep RLS at bay. Whether it’s a daily walk around your Buffalo neighborhood or a quick spin on the bike, staying active can improve circulation and keep your leg muscles happy. Cut Back on Caffeine: Love your daily cup of coffee? You might want to rethink that afternoon espresso. Caffeine can exacerbate RLS symptoms, so try cutting back, especially in the latter part of the day. Prioritize Sleep: A consistent sleep schedule is essential. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night to help regulate your body’s internal clock and reduce the likelihood of RLS symptoms. Try Magnesium Spray: Magnesium is a mineral that plays a crucial role in muscle function and relaxation. A magnesium deficiency has been linked to RLS, and applying magnesium spray to your legs before bed can help ease the symptoms. Plus, it’s easy to use—just spray, rub it in, and relax! Conveniently, we sell magnesium spray right here at our Buffalo chiropractic and massage office, so be sure to pick some up during your next visit. Treating Restless Leg Syndrome If RLS is already giving you grief, there are treatments that can help. Chiropractic care and massage therapy, like the services we offer at our office, can provide significant relief. By improving circulation, relaxing tense muscles, and correcting any misalignments in the spine, chiropractic adjustments and targeted massage therapy can reduce the severity of RLS symptoms. In some cases, your primary care provider may recommend medication to manage RLS, especially if it’s severe. But for many people, lifestyle changes and supportive therapies like the ones we offer can make a big difference. Let Us Help You Don’t let Restless Leg Syndrome keep you from enjoying your evenings or getting a good night’s sleep. Our Buffalo chiropractic and massage office is here to support you with personalized care and products like magnesium spray that can help you manage and prevent RLS symptoms. Give us a call or stop by to learn more about how we can help you keep you feeling great. Bethany Wolcott D’Youville Chiropractic ‘26

When it comes to managing pain and injury, the age-old debate of ice versus heat often leaves people scratching their heads. Should you reach for that bag of frozen peas or the cozy heating pad? Understanding when and why to use ice or heat can make a significant difference in your recovery process.

Attending the Gil Hedley Nerve Tour was an experience unlike any other. As I walked into the conference room, the atmosphere buzzed with anticipation. There, at the center of it all, stood Gil Hedley— a barefoot man with curly hair, his presence both commanding and approachable. His eccentricity was palpable, his quick-witted humor eliciting smiles and laughter from the audience instantly making us feel like part of a unique and enlightening journey. We were fortunate enough to bring all six of our doctors and eight of our licensed massage therapists; I got to tag along as well, as a current chiropractic student. Gil’s deep respect for the human body was evident in every word he spoke. He paid heartfelt homage to the donors we would be discussing— Anna, Z, Jerry, George, and Captain— whose selfless gifts made this profound exploration possible. The reverence he showed for these individuals was not just a mere acknowledgment, but a genuine expression of gratitude that set the tone for the entire event. This conference was not just about anatomical education; it was a celebration of life, connection, and the incredible generosity of those who chose to contribute to the advancement of our understanding. There were more than a few tears shed throughout our time at the conference— something I didn’t anticipate, but appreciate looking back. As the day unfolded, Gil’s passion for the intricacies of the human nervous system became contagious. His presentations, filled with rich, descriptive language and interactive demonstrations, transformed complex concepts into relatable and memorable experiences. Each person in the audience was not merely a passive observer but an active part of this remarkable exploration. We sat enthralled as he shared every facet of his seventeen-month project that time would allow. Gil delved into human anatomy starting with the brain and spinal cord— bread and butter for many of us at Peak Performance. He began the topic by showing us a video of a water snake oscillating in water. Gil explained that our spinal cord undulated in the same exact manner; with every beat of our heart, the arteries in our brain that receive the surge of blood will slightly torque the brain, which leads to the ripple in our cord. 60-100 times a minute our spinal cords smoothly wave down our backs—a fascinating reminder that, as is everything else in our body, our spinal cords are alive and moving though we may not feel it. Interspersed throughout the presentation were different scenes of nature such as the snake. Bears, Alaskan rivers, and the occasional dog were peppered in between detailed photos of dissection. Some were just for a reset after a particularly in-the-weeds breakdown of the cranial nerves, but many were to show repeating patterns that occur over and over again not only within the human body but throughout the natural world, the hallmark of these being how the nervous system deeply resembles a tree and how fitting the tree of life is in each and every one of our bodies as the system that makes us who we are. One quote from Gil that particularly resonated with me was, "The body gives evidence to unity, not separation." This simple yet profound statement encapsulates the essence of his teachings. In school, we often get "too close" to the body, taking classes on it by system or region— cardiovascular, nervous, musculoskeletal— without appreciating the intricate web of connections that bind it all together. Gil reminded us that these systems do not exist in isolation; rather, they are parts of a cohesive whole. Throughout his presentations, he highlighted the repeating patterns and symmetries that run through our anatomy, illustrating how each part of the body is interdependent. This perspective encourages us to step back and view the body as a unified entity, where every cell, tissue, and organ works in concert, revealing a beautiful tapestry of interconnection and harmony that flows into the world around us as well. There is so much that we take for granted about what we know of the body. There is textbook after textbook on the anatomy and physiology of every conceivable topic from head to toe. Still, there is so much we don’t know— yet. The work that Gil and his team are doing through these projects is invaluable. To study the human body in the minute levels that he’s been afforded is incredible. But one of the qualities I most appreciated of Gil, besides his drive for knowledge, was his care for the donors and their families. Over 230 people chose to donate themselves to Gil’s work. Two of his donors, George and Anna, were married. Both of them saw the work Gil was doing in the lab and chose to entrust themselves under his care and advance the world’s knowledge of anatomy. He told us story after story of his donors, what careers they had, the times they spent together at family dinners, and their immeasurable generosity in death. Perhaps the most weighty of his stories was that of the Captain. Captain was a pilot, both in the military and commercially. His son, Dr. Madhav Gramke, is a chiropractor who ended up connecting the family to Gil. We had the privilege to see many photos of Captain full of life in his adventures with Gil; these were intermixed with the incredible beauty Captain offered in his anatomy and the great lessons we learned from him. Gil spoke of the time Captain told him that he would “be heading to his lab soon”, proud to be a part of this amazing project. Six months from that conversation, Captain had passed. When Gil first let on that he knew many of the donors personally, I was taken aback. I couldn’t imagine working on a friend or a loved one in such a way. I immediately assumed Gil had the most refined ability to compartmentalize his thoughts to be able to focus and disassociate the life from the work that was on the table in front of him. However, as the conference went on, I realized that was not the case. After every finding he presented, he personally thanked the donor he was working on by name. No, it turns out, it isn’t weird or disturbed to do this kind of work on loved ones. Rather, it was the greatest honor Gil could have. For the people he knew to place such a high level of trust in him, to allow him to get to know his friends better than anyone in the world ever could, to see with his eyes and touch with his hands what made them tick— that is beyond beautiful. And Gil of course recognized that and imparted that to us. On every slide of the powerpoint, through every picture, whether it was a fun group photo or a meticulously dissected brachial plexus, love and gratitude flowed throughout every inch of the Nerve Tour. The pure skill Gil has in dissection is astounding. He explained the left vs right brain discussion in a new light, he poured over the meandering path of the vagus nerve, he had us meditate to the point that everyone in the room could physically feel our own pituitary and pineal glands. But beyond that, he made us feel. He could have easily made his tour fascinating with strictly scientific anatomical photos. Yet, he chose to continue the legacy of his donors, allowing the grieving and healing process to continue, and to make the conference exceptionally memorable. Thank you to Gil Hedley, his team, and especially to the donors. Bethany Wolcott D’Youville Chiropractic

Temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) affects millions, causing pain and dysfunction in the jaw joints and muscles. If you're experiencing jaw pain, difficulty chewing, or even headaches, you might be dealing with TMJ. In this post, we'll explore what TMJ is, its causes, and ten tips to manage and treat this condition effectively. What is TMJ? TMJ refers to a group of conditions affecting the temporomandibular joints, which connect the jawbone to the skull. These joints allow for the movements needed for chewing, speaking, and facial expressions. When the joints and muscles around them become dysfunctional, it leads to TMJ disorders. Symptoms can vary but often include jaw pain, difficulty chewing, clicking or popping sounds in the jaw, and even headaches or ear pain. Causes of TMJ TMJ disorders can result from a variety of factors, including: Jaw Injuries: Trauma to the jaw or temporomandibular joint can lead to TMJ disorders. Arthritis: Conditions like osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis can affect the TMJ. Bruxism: Chronic grinding or clenching of teeth can put excessive pressure on the TMJ. Misalignment: Improper alignment of the teeth or jaw can cause stress on the TMJ. Stress: High levels of stress can lead to muscle tension and jaw clenching, contributing to TMJ disorders. Ten Tips for TMJ 1. Jaw Exercises Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can improve jaw mobility and reduce tension. Try opening and closing your mouth slowly, moving your jaw side to side, and practicing these exercises regularly to keep the jaw muscles flexible. It may look a little funny but the relief is worth it! 2. Heat and Cold Therapy Applying a warm compress can relax muscles and improve blood flow, while a cold pack can reduce swelling and numb pain. Alternate between heat and cold therapy for the best results, using each for about 15-20 minutes. 3. Dietary Adjustments Eating soft foods and avoiding hard, chewy, or crunchy items can reduce stress on the jaw. Opt for foods like yogurt, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs, and cut food into small pieces to minimize chewing. As obvious as it may sound, taking extra time to cut things up and being more aware of what you intake can go a long way in managing symptoms. 4. Stress Management Techniques like meditation, deep breathing, and yoga can help reduce stress and associated muscle tension. Practicing these regularly can help manage overall stress levels and alleviate TMJ symptoms. Unclench your jaw and relax your shoulders when you notice them tightening up. 5. Avoiding Extreme Jaw Movements Minimizing wide yawning, gum chewing, and excessive talking can help prevent further irritation of the TMJ. Be mindful of your jaw movements and try to keep them within a comfortable range. 6. Jaw and Spinal Adjustments Chiropractors can perform both spinal and jaw adjustments. Misalignments in the spine can affect the nerves controlling jaw function. Correcting these misalignments, along with gentle manipulation of the jaw to improve its alignment and function, can alleviate TMJ symptoms and improve overall alignment and mobility. 7. Postural Correction Poor posture can contribute to TMJ disorders. Chiropractors can provide guidance on improving posture, helping to reduce strain on the jaw. Simple adjustments to your sitting and standing habits can make a significant difference believe it or not! 8. Myofascial Release Massage therapists can use myofascial release to target the connective tissues surrounding the muscles, helping to relieve tension and improve jaw function. This technique can be particularly effective for long-term relief. 9. Trigger Point Therapy By applying pressure to specific points in the muscles, massage therapists can reduce pain and alleviate TMJ symptoms. This focused approach can address the root cause of muscle tension. 10. Intraoral Massage Intraoral massage is a specialized technique where massage therapists work on the muscles inside the mouth. This can directly address tension in the jaw muscles, providing significant relief from TMJ symptoms. This method requires expertise but can be very effective in reducing pain and improving jaw function. Seeking Professional Help While home remedies can provide temporary relief, it's essential to consult with healthcare professionals for a comprehensive treatment plan. Chiropractors and massage therapists can work together to develop an individualized approach, addressing the underlying causes of TMJ disorders and providing lasting relief. If you're experiencing TMJ symptoms, don't hesitate to seek help. Our chiropractic and massage therapy team is dedicated to helping you find relief and improve your quality of life. Contact us today to schedule an appointment and take the first step towards a pain-free jaw. Bethany Wolcott D’Youville University ‘26

Summer is the perfect time to lace up your running shoes and hit the trails, roads, and parks. The warm weather and longer days make it an ideal season for outdoor exercise. However, with the increase in physical activity, many runners may find themselves experiencing a common and painful condition known as shin splints. At our Peak Performance, we often see an uptick in patients dealing with this issue during the summer months. This guide will help you understand what shin splints are, their signs and symptoms, how they occur, and most importantly, how to treat and prevent them. What Are Shin Splints? Shin splints, medically known as medial tibial stress syndrome, refer to pain along the inner edge of the shin bone which is your tibia. This pain typically occurs due to overuse or repetitive stress on the tibia and the connective tissues that attach muscles to the bone. Runners, dancers, and military recruits are among the most commonly affected individuals. Signs and Symptoms The primary symptom of shin splints is a sharp or throbbing pain along the inside of the tibia. This pain may: Start as a dull ache during or after exercise. Become more intense with continued activity. Be tender to the touch. Worsen when touching or applying pressure to the affected area. Be accompanied by mild swelling. If you experience these symptoms, it’s crucial to address them promptly to prevent further injury. Causes of Shin Splints Shin splints are caused by repetitive stress on the tibia and surrounding tissues. Several factors contribute to this condition, including: Overuse: Sudden increases in physical activity intensity or duration can strain the shin muscles and tendons. Improper Footwear: Worn-out shoes or those lacking proper support can lead to improper foot mechanics, increasing stress on the shins. Flat Feet or High Arches: These conditions can cause improper alignment and added stress on the shinbone. Running Surfaces: Hard surfaces, such as concrete, can exacerbate the impact on your shins. Poor Technique: Running with improper form can lead to uneven distribution of force on the legs. Treatment Options If you’re suffering from shin splints, several treatment options can help alleviate the pain and promote healing: Rest: The most important step is to reduce or stop activities that cause pain. Rest allows the tissues to heal. Ice: Applying ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes several times a day can reduce inflammation and pain. Compression: Wearing compression socks can help reduce swelling. Elevation: Elevating your legs can also help reduce swelling. Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation. Massage Therapy: Massage can improve blood flow, reduce muscle tension, and promote healing in the affected area. Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic adjustments can improve alignment and biomechanics, reducing stress on the shins. Preventing Shin Splints Preventing shin splints involves several proactive steps: Gradual Increase in Activity: Gradually increase your running intensity and duration to allow your muscles and bones to adapt. Proper Footwear: Invest in good-quality running shoes with proper arch support and cushioning. Strengthening Exercises: Strengthening your lower leg muscles can help absorb the impact of running. Exercises like calf raises and toe raises are beneficial. Flexibility Training: Stretching your calves and shins before and after running can prevent tightness and reduce the risk of injury. Running Surface: Whenever possible, choose softer running surfaces, like grass or dirt trails, to minimize impact. Conclusion Shin splints can be a painful setback, but with proper understanding, treatment, and prevention strategies, you can continue to enjoy your summer runs without interruption. At our Buffalo chiropractic and massage office, we are dedicated to helping you stay active and pain-free. If you’re experiencing shin splints or any other musculoskeletal issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to us for expert care and advice. Enjoy your running and stay healthy this summer! Bethany Wolcott D’Youville Chiropractic ‘26