With a decade of experience and practice to her name, Renee incorporates traditional chiropractic care with alternative healing modalities to provide a balanced whole-body approach to her treatments.
Since becoming a first-time mother in mid-2017, Renee has increased her focus on pregnancy and paediatric care. Additionally, Renee incorporates Neuro Emotional Technique and Kinesiology as well as gentle manual therapy and soft tissue techniques. Renee addresses the relationship between the body’s stress, environmental toxicity, structural integrity and nutritional balance.

With a strong focus on our bodies inherent intelligence and ability to heal itself, Renee believes that a strong nutritional foundation and a holistic approach is the best way to identify the cause of our ailments and the quickest way to return to our functional best.

Summer is almost upon us! I hope you are enjoying the sunshine and getting yourselves moving!

Recipes
Again I have gone back to my favourite, Yotam Ottolenghi. On my recent trip to Europe, Dan and I went to Nomad in Soho (one of his restaurants). It was beautiful and it inspired me to try some more recipes. Here are a few favourites.

Braised fennel and capers and olives sounds like a strange combination but it works. Very delicious and perfect for this strange between season weather.
I made the Roasted fish with aromatic olive oil  because of our Portugal travels where they served the whole fish with sides and it was simple and healthy.
Of course there has to be one recipe that is slightly summery. I am yet to make this one but as soon as summer fruit is more reasonably priced this sweet summer salad is going to make its way onto my table.

Interesting Infographics and videos

Over the last few months I have collected a few great infographics and videos. Here are some of my favourites;
-The benefits of a good nights sleep
-How chronic stress affects your brain
-The effect of exercise of our body's natural killer cells

Looking for a Unique Xmas Present? 

How about a massager? Now stocking Dr. Graeme's general purpose massagers (the same one that I use!) Price: $100

Crystal Street Chiro also has pillows available in both memory foam and latex. Please contact me to discuss the best pillow for you. 

Out and about

This year my lovely client Dasha opened her store Chalk on Stone. Located on Percival Rd, Stanmore, the store is beautiful. Definitely worth a visit if you are looking for homewares that are the perfect fusion between classic and unique. Ps. the bags and scarves are also pretty special. 

I recently attended a seminar on Functional Neuromuscular Assessment which changed the way I think about muscles and fascia. Next time you are in I will share with you some of the new stretches, releases and exercises. Be prepared! 

Clinic Hours

I am now treating from home on Monday afternoon/evenings and Friday all day. 
If it suits you best to come to Edgecliff please let me know otherwise tell all your Eastside friends!!

I am still in Petersham for most of the week;
Monday 7.30am - 12pm
Tuesday 2pm - 8pm
Wednesday 7.30am - 8pm
Thursday - 2pm - 8pm
Saturday - 7.30am - 1pm

To make an appointment please call 8021-4636, book online at www.crystalstreetchiro.com or send me a text.

Looking forward to seeing you all before Xmas! 

Amy

Wear the Correct Footwear:

One of the most common injuries is an ankle sprain, often from incorrect footwear. Make sure your shoes are in good condition. They should have good grip and support.  Make sure they are properly fitted and try to wear them in before getting on the court. I prefer Brooks and Asics.

 Stretching/Warm Up

Always warm up with an active warm up. This means a jog or any exercise or activity that mimics some of the actions of the game. The warm up decreases the chance of injury on the court as you are preparing the body for play. Even if you are running late, make sure you take the time to run from the car to the court or run around the court before going on.

It is also important to warm up your hands and fingers. Finger sprains are another common injury. This can be done with quick passes and also with by getting the hands moving without the ball.  

It is also important to stretch and cool down. This allows the muscles to gradually cool down and lessens the tightness felt after a game. This is often even more important than the warm up.

 Training

Make sure you attend your training sessions. This is to prevent injuries from improper throwing techniques, jumping/landing and changing of direction. It is important to master the technique of good chest, shoulder and bounce passes. It is also important to have the fitness to be able to stay on the court for a whole game. This includes cardiovascular fitness but also balance, coordination, strength and flexibility. Landing properly and learning to change direction quickly and safely are also important techniques to avoid excess stress on the ankles and knees. Training will also help develop the muscles around the ankles, knees and shoulders to prevent injury.

 Preventing Injury & tips for when injured

• Seek a pre-participation health check by a health practitioner to identify any musculoskeletal problems or to treat any current injuries.
  

• Make sure that you listen to your body. If you are on the court or are about to take the court and are sore or are not feeling well, do not take the court. 
  

• If you have weakness or pain in your ankles, knees, hips or lower back make sure you seek help from a health practitioner- Chiropractic, Physiotherapy, Massage or Acupuncture can be helpful. 
  

• If you have a sprain at a game, make sure you get some treatment on the injury as soon as possible to help bring the swelling down and speed up recovery. 
  

• If you have sustained an injury, ensure you receive rehabilitation before resuming play.

For more information contact Amy at Crystal Street Family Chiropractic - proud sponsor of Summer Hill Lakers Netball Club.

 

 

 

 

It's almost Spring!! 
Just 1 month and we are there, so it's time to get yourself ready for the better half of the year. 

Research
Everyone knows turmeric as a beautiful spice used in indian cooking but it has some powerful properties. Curcumin has been found to help with post-exercise soreness, chronic inflammation and even treatment of alzheimer's disease.

Another interesting article: It has been found that commonly prescribed pain medication for lower back pain is not as effective as once thought. 

Nutritional Tip
Iron is a vital mineral that when low can cause tiredness, breathlessness and lightheadedness. It is often lower in women due to menstruation. It is important to get tested for iron deficiency before supplementing.

Fee schedule Update
From August 1st, Crystal Street Family Chiropractic's fee schedule has changed slightly. This is due to rising costs.
Initial consultations are going to remain the same but all other consultations will increase by $4. 
Standard consultations will now be $59 or $49 for a student.
Please have a chat with me if you have any financial concerns about the new schedule.

Out & About
I recently ate at Fish & Co in Annandale which was excellent. Dan is a pescatarian (vegetarian but eats fish) so is a rarity to go out and he be able to eat almost everything on the menu. Everything we tried was yum! Other notable to fish restaurants are Mohr Fish in Surry Hills, Love Fish in Rozelle, North Bondi Fish in Bondi & Fish Face in Double Bay. I've found fish restaurants tend to be a little more pricey but the portions are always huge!!

Extras
Pillows, rollers, massagers heat packs and supplements are still available for purchase. Currently I only have rollers in stock but am happy to order in anything you may need. 

Cancellation Policy
Just as a reminder if you do need to cancel or reschedule your appointment please give at least 12 hours notice or a cancellation fee will apply of $25. Missing an appointment without letting me know will incur the full fee of the consultation. 

Have a great week and I look forward to seeing you soon for a spinal checkup!

Amy

Iron

Iron is an important part of haemoglobin, which carries oxygen around the body, most importantly to the brain. It is also a vital part of myoglobin, a muscle pigment that carries oxygen to the muscle tissue and helps with muscle contraction. Iron also helps metabolise proteins, improves concentration and fatigue.

Try eating more iron rich foods

Here are some ideas: 
Red meat, Dark leafy greens, Beans, Lentils, Egg yolk, Artichokes, Chickpeas, Mussels, Oysters, Liver, Nuts, Whole grains, Dark chocolate, Tofu, Seeds, Dried fruit, Broccoli

Note: Get tested before supplementing!

Hi!

Slowly (& sadly) the temperature is dropping and winter is emerging! I hope you are keeping warm and looking after your immune system.

Research
So many of us are getting into Luminosity and other such apps or books in order to sharpen our focus and memory. The article "Brain Games: Do They Really Work" looks at some studies carried out to prove/disprove the effectiveness. 

Many people suffer from osteoarthritis in the hips and knees. This is because they are the big weight bearing joints of the body and therefore take the brunt of the force with running, falls and sitting. Research is finding that exercise can prevent or slow down the progression of wear and tear, to eliminate the need for surgery.

Nutritional Tip
It can be hard to keep the immune system working at 100% this time of year. Zinc is a powerful mineral that can help ward off & decrease the time of colds. 

Fee schedule Update
From August 1st, Crystal Street Family Chiropractic's fee schedule is going to change slightly. This is due to rising costs.
Initial consultations are going to remain the same but all other consultations will increase by $4. 
Standard consultations will now be $59 or $49 for a student.
Please have a chat with me if you have any financial concerns about the new schedule.

Out & About
I recently went to Jamie's Italian for the first time in the city. It was really delicious and very reasonably priced for a huge dinner. The vegetarian board was excellent, as was the risotto. 
I also finally went to Brighton the Corner for food and it definitely lives up the hype. I had the cauliflower salad and it was excellent!

Cancellation Policy
Just as a reminder if you do need to cancel or reschedule your appointment please give at least 12 hours notice or a cancellation fee will apply of $25. Missing an appointment without letting me know will incur the full fee of the consultation. 


Have a great week and I look forward to seeing you soon for a spinal checkup!

Amy

Hi!

Welcome to the Easter/ANZAC Day Edition of the Crystal Street Family Chiropractic newsletter. I hope everyone is excited for a bit of time away from the desk and hopefully some fresh air, good food and maybe even some stretching.

Research
A Cochrane review has found that upright labour lowers caesarean rates. This is a worthwhile read!
I have also included a very interesting study which has linked cancer treatment and arthritis. Although it is very complex, refer to page 438-439 for the summary.

Nutrition Tip
Vitamin of the month - Vitamin C, vital for this time of the year with its fantastic antioxident and immune properties.

Article
There is a lot of talk about the benefits and safety of babywearing. This article details a few of my thoughts.

In and Around Petersham and the Inner West
There are a few new places popping up in Petersham. Just down the road from the clinic is Brighton the Corner & on Stanmore rd is Daisy's Milk Bar. I have yet to try more than a coffee from Brighton the Corner, but that was good!

Foam Rollers
I have started stocking foam rollers for $60. They are extremely useful for stretching of the legs and upper body. They are also perfect for lying over instead of a rolled towel. Please contact me if you are interested in purchasing.
 
Housekeeping
Just as a reminder if you do need to cancel or reschedule your appointment please give at least 12 hours notice or a cancellation fee will apply of $25. Missing an appointment without letting me know will incur the full fee of the consultation. 

Have a great week!

Amy

 Baby carriers

There are many benefits of baby carrying. These include body contact, developmental benefits such as constant movement and hip alignment, ease of day-to-day activities for the parent and the feeling of security for the baby.  With so many styles available, it can be difficult to find the most suited to the wearer and to the baby.  Here are a few ideas;

The Newborn


Best choice of carry:

• Woven wraps in the front cross carry
• Stretchy wraps in front carry
• Ring Sling 
• Soft structure carrier

 All of these carrying methods allow for the baby’s head to be supported when they do not have this control, supports the developing spine and gives a broad base of support. They also allow for the hips to be placed in the ideal position for hip joint growth (when worn correctly).  The hips should be in flexion and abduction, a deep squat position.

Use of the cradle carry is not encouraged due to the risk of closure of the baby’s airways with prolonged chin tucking.

 The Young Baby (>3 months) with Neck Control

 At this stage, the baby should be able to lift their own head, which allows for other options, predominately the hip carry.


Whether using woven wraps or ring slings, the baby again should have a good base of support with their legs in a squatting position and should have their back and neck supported.  The same carries as the newborn are still great for this age-group too.

There is much debate about the use of back carries for this age. It is ok, if the baby is well supported in the above-mentioned ways. At this age, it can be difficult to get the baby into a back carry due to their lack of muscle strength and control. If you can get assistance in getting bub on and off the back or learn safe techniques to do so then this is fine too.


The Sitting Baby & Toddler

 Once the baby can sit on their own, most carrying techniques are safe. This includes upright back carrying.  At this age, baby will have more muscle control and therefore the positioning of the back carry will be easier.

Most of the time, the way baby is carried will be determined by the parent, based on what is comfortable and of course what baby enjoys. As previously mentioned, it is still important to make sure baby is secure, has good hip positioning, and a stable base of support.

International Hip Dysplasia Association, “Baby Carriers, Seats and other Equipment”, 2012, http://hipdysplasia.org/developmental-dysplasia-of-the-hip/prevention/baby-carriers-seats-and-other-equipment/


Considerations

• Does the sling allow for various carrying positions for the baby on the wearer? This is important if the wearer has mid or lower back problems. Some carrying positions and techniques will feel more comfortable and will help stabilise the area. Wide and/or cushioned adjustable shoulder straps will allow for easier carrying and less strain on the Carriers neck and shoulders too.

 

• Does the carrier allow for different positions for the baby:  for example; forward or chest facing, vertical, horizontal, folded legs, straight, or frog-leg position? All of these will help with the baby’s postural development. Does it allow for optimal positioning; specifically of the hips? The carrier should have a wide base of support that supports the thighs and flexes the knees. The legs should be in an “M” position. · Make sure that there is head and neck support for the baby and/or sleeping infant

 

• How long will the sling/wrap/pouch accommodate for the child’s growth and postural development?  This is important as often carriers suit different ages.

 

• Can the infant be moved from one wearer to another without disturbing them and can they be removed without disturbing them? This can be an important consideration especially if the baby is generally hard to settle or is in a clingy phase or a wonder week. It can be stressful for both the parent and baby.

• Is cleaning of the carrier easy? Can you throw it in the washing machine?

 

• Does the wearer have both hands free or does the baby still require some support with a hand? The baby should be secure enough in the carrier for the wearer to not have to support with their hands. If this is the case, it is possible that the carrier is not tight enough, not on correctly or not suited to the wearer or baby.

 

• Can the baby be put into all carrying positions by the wearer on their own, or do they require help from a second person?

 

• Is there an even distribution of the baby’s weight for the wearer’s comfort? Does the sling/wrap cause repetitive postural stress to one area of the wearer’s spine and pelvis?

 

• Breastfeeding is not generally recommended while baby is in the carrier. This is not because it isn’t possible or more efficient, but because breastfeeding is its own activity and should have the focus of Mum. Eye and body contact is important during this time.

 
 My favourite carriers are the soft structured carriers. Based on the Mei Tai design, they are easy to use for beginners, quick to put on and take off and some designs allow for a number of different carries. In saying that, I like almost all carriers because they allow for contact between parent and baby.

 Amy Melamet is an Inner West Chiropractor in Sydney and a university tutor with a special interest in women’s and kid’s health and pregnancy care. She is also a Die Trageschule baby wearing consultant, having completed the basic course earlier this year.
http://www.crystalstreetchiro.com
http://www.facebook.com/crystalstreetchiropractic

References:

Anisfed, E, Casper, V, Nozyce, M & Cunningham, N, “Does infant carry promote attachment? An experimental study of the effects of increased physical contact on the development of attachment.” Child Development, Vol 5, October 1990, pp1617-1627

Barham-Floreani, J, 2013, “Are baby carriers safe for my baby’s developing hips and spine”, http://welladjustedbabies.com/are-baby-carriers-safe/

Blois, M. “Birth: Care of Infant and Mother: Time Sensitive Issues.” Best Practices in the Behavioral Management of Health from Preconception to Adolescence, edited by William Gordon and Jodie Trafton. Los Altos: Institute for Disease Management. 2007-8. pp. 108-132. (www.indiseasemanagement.org).

Didymos,  2012, “Experts’ Opinions’, http://www.didymos.de/en/DIDYMagazine/Opinions-and-Photos/Experts-Opinions

Fettweis, E.: The child Hüftluxationsleiden. The treatment in seated squat position. In: Steel, Ch (eds.):. Advances in orthopedics and traumatology. Vol 3:. Landsberg ecomed, (1992) 

Hunziker, U, Barr, R,  “Increased carrying reduces infant crying: A Randomized Control Trial. “ Paediatrics, Vol 77, May 1986, pp641-648

International Hip Dysplasia Association,  2012, “Baby Carriers, Seats and other Equipment”, http://hipdysplasia.org/developmental-dysplasia-of-the-hip/prevention/baby-carriers-seats-and-other-equipment/

Kirkilionis, E.: A baby wants to be carried. Kösel, Munich (1999) 


Kirkilionis, E.: The basic needs of the infant and the medical aspects - prepared and characterized on the type of boy carrying Ling. notabene medici,1997, 27 (2), pp61-66, 27 (3), pp117-121