The Muscle And Joint Podcast

In this episode, written by Dr. Faisal Malik and narrated by George, we explore how to manage osteoarthritis naturally — without relying solely on medication or surgery. Learn how chiropractic care, physiotherapy, laser therapy, and gentle daily movement can reduce pain, improve mobility, and help you take charge of your joint health.Dr. Malik also shares practical advice on what you can do at home — from exercise and posture tips to the foods that help fight inflammation. Whether you’re newly diagnosed or looking for better ways to move and feel stronger, this episode is packed with real-world strategies to help you live an active, pain-free life.👉 For more health and wellness insights, visit muscleandjoint.ca/blog or book a free consultation at the Muscle and Joint Clinic, open 7 days a week in Mississauga.

This week marks a major milestone — the 100th episode of The Muscle and Joint Podcast! 🎉Join Dr. Faisal Malik as he reflects on the journey from our very first episode in 2020 to today — over 100 conversations on pain relief, posture, performance, and natural healing. From back pain and frozen shoulder to load management, ergonomics, and lifestyle medicine, this podcast has always had one goal: to help you move better, feel better, and live healthier.In this special episode, Dr. Malik looks back at key lessons learned, the evolution of chiropractic and physiotherapy care, and what’s ahead for the next 100 episodes — including more expert insights, holistic wellness topics, and real-world tips for everyday health.🎧 Thank you for being part of this journey. Here’s to 100 episodes of movement, healing, and community — and to many more ahead!Connect with us! ⁠Muscle and Joint Website⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠Facebook⁠⁠X⁠⁠Book Your Visit Today By Clicking Here!⁠⁠Ph: 905-593-1605⁠

In this episode, Dr. Malik explores meralgia paresthetica, a nerve compression condition that causes burning, tingling, or numbness along the outer thigh. Often mistaken for back or hip pain, this condition can disrupt daily life, but the good news is that conservative care works in most cases.We break down what causes meralgia paresthetica, why it is often overlooked, and how chiropractic care—through education, manual therapy, targeted exercises, and spinal adjustments—has helped patients return to full function.Drawing on recent case studies, we look at how patients with years of persistent symptoms achieved complete recovery through evidence-informed chiropractic care:Roecker et al. (2023) – A forty-year-old U.S. Veteran experienced complete resolution of thigh pain and numbness after six chiropractic sessions over ten weeks. Treatment included patient education, soft-tissue therapy, lumbar spinal manipulation, and therapeutic exercises (Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association). Read the full study hereJordahl (2016) – A fifty-eight-year-old firefighter’s symptoms resolved completely after five treatment sessions combining spinal adjustments, psoas myofascial therapy, and interferential current therapy (Chiropractic Journal of Australia). Read the abstract hereHoule (2012) – A thirty-five-year-old woman recovered fully from chronic idiopathic meralgia paresthetica after just three treatments involving pelvic mobilization, myofascial therapy, and stretching (Chiropractic & Manual Therapies). Read the study hereThese cases highlight how chiropractic care can offer safe, non-invasive, and effective relief for nerve-related pain conditions like meralgia paresthetica.If you are experiencing burning, tingling, or numbness on the outside of your thigh, you may benefit from this type of care.📌 Need help? Book your free consultation at the Muscle and Joint Clinic, serving Mississauga’s Churchill Meadows and Square One communities.📞 Call 905-593-1605📧 Email clinic@muscleandjoint.ca🌐 Visit muscleandjoint.ca

Headaches can be more than just an inconvenience—they can disrupt your work, social life, and overall well-being. But what if relief didn’t have to come from endless painkillers? In this episode, we dive into the science behind headaches and explore how chiropractic care and physiotherapy can provide long-term relief. We’ll break down the latest research, including a clinical trial on chiropractic spinal manipulation for recurrent headaches and a meta-analysis on migraine pain reduction. Whether you’re dealing with tension headaches, migraines, or neck-related headaches, we’ll discuss practical, drug-free solutions to help you take control of your health. Tune in and discover how spinal alignment, muscle balance, and lifestyle changes can help you live pain-free!Here are the references in for the studies mentioned: 1. Lynge, S., Dissing, K. B., Vach, W., Christensen, H. W., & Hestbaek, L. (2021). Effectiveness of chiropractic manipulation versus sham manipulation for recurrent headaches in children aged 7–14 years: A randomized clinical trial. Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, 29(1), 1-12. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12998-020-00360-3 2. Rist, P. M., Hernandez, A., Bernstein, C., Kowalski, M., Osypiuk, K., Vining, R., Long, C. R., Goertz, C., Song, R., & Wayne, P. M. (2019). The impact of spinal manipulation on migraine pain and disability: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Headache: The Journal of Head and Face Pain, 59(4), 532–542. https://doi.org/10.1111/head.13501 3. Bryans, R., Descarreaux, M., Duranleau, M., Dussault, M., Marcoux, H., Potter, B., Ruegg, R., Shaw, L., Watkin, R., & White, E. (2011). Evidence-based guidelines for the chiropractic treatment of adults with headache. Journal of Manipulative & Physiological Therapeutics, 34(5), 274–289. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jmpt.2011.04.008Connect With Us!Phone: 905-593-1605Facebook: www.facebook.com/muscleandjointInstagram: www.instagram.com/muscleandjointX: www.x.com/muscleandjointLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/muscleandjoint

Think you need to work out every day to stay healthy? Think again! Science is giving weekend warriors a well-earned high five. A recent study in JAMA found that cramming all your exercise into one or two intense days is just as effective as spreading it throughout the week. That means if your Monday-to-Friday is more about deadlines than deadlifts, but you go all-in on the weekend, you’re still making serious gains in heart health, longevity, and overall fitness. In this episode, we break down what the research actually says, how you can maximize your results while avoiding injuries, and why quality matters more than frequency. We’ll also share expert tips on smart training, recovery, and injury prevention to keep you crushing those weekend sweat sessions without the setbacks. So whether you’re a weekend warrior or just looking for an excuse to stop stressing about missed workouts, this episode is for you! Tune in and let’s get moving—your way.See the post here: https://muscleandjoint.ca/Mississauga/weekend-warriors-rejoice-science-says-youre-still-winning-at-fitness/Connect With Us!Phone: 905-593-1605Facebook: www.facebook.com/muscleandjointInstagram: www.instagram.com/muscleandjointX: www.x.com/muscleandjointLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/muscleandjoint

Menstrual pain is something many experience, but how do you know if what you’re feeling is normal or a sign of something more serious? In this episode of the Muscle and Joint Podcast, we dive deep into the causes of menstrual discomfort, the difference between primary and secondary dysmenorrhea, and the most effective ways to manage pain. While mild cramping is common, severe or persistent paincould indicate underlying conditions such as endometriosis, fibroids, or chronic pelvic inflammatory disease.We explore a variety of pain management strategies, from NSAIDs and heat therapy to dietary changes and exercise, but also highlight non-pharmacological approaches like chiropractic care, physiotherapy, massage therapy, and TENS therapy. Research suggests that pelvic floor physiotherapy, spinal mobilization, and deep tissue massage can help improve pelvic alignment, circulation, and muscle function, providing relief from menstrual discomfort.If period pain is interfering with your daily life, it’s time to take control. Learn about the best evidence-based treatments, when to seek professional help, and how a comprehensive, holistic approach can improve menstrual health. Tune in for expert insights and practical tips to help you move through your cycle with greater ease.Disclaimer: The information in this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. If you experience severe or persistent menstrual pain, consult a qualified healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment.See the post here: https://muscleandjoint.ca/Mississauga/menstrual-pain-understanding-whats-normal-and-when-to-seek-help/Connect With Us!Phone: 905-593-1605Facebook: www.facebook.com/muscleandjointInstagram: www.instagram.com/muscleandjointX: www.x.com/muscleandjointLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/muscleandjoint

Musculoskeletal pain affects millions of people, but when does everyday soreness turn into something more serious? In this episode of the Muscle and Joint Podcast, we break down everything you need to know about muscle, joint, tendon, and ligament pain—what causes it, when to seek help, and how to manage it effectively.We explore the differences between acute and chronic pain, the impact of aging on muscle health, and the warning signs that indicate a deeper issue. Learn about common treatment options, including chiropractic care, physiotherapy, massage therapy, and laser therapy, and discover how early intervention can prevent long-term mobility issues.If you’re struggling with persistent pain, don’t ignore it—tune in to learn how to take control of your health, improve mobility, and live pain-free. And if you need expert guidance, book a free consultation at the Muscle and Joint Clinic today!🎧 Listen now and start your journey to lasting relief!See the post here: https://muscleandjoint.ca/Mississauga/understanding-musculoskeletal-pain-when-to-seek-help/Connect With Us!Phone: 905-593-1605Facebook: www.facebook.com/muscleandjointInstagram: www.instagram.com/muscleandjointX: www.x.com/muscleandjointLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/muscleandjoint

Welcome back to the Muscle and Joint Podcast! Today, we’re going to clear up one of the most misleading terms in healthcare—the idea of a slipped disc. You’ve probably heard someone say they “slipped a disc” or that their disc “popped out,” but here’s the truth—discs don’t slip, slide, or pop out of place. The intervertebral discs in your spine are securely attached to the vertebrae above and below them. They are held in place by strong ligaments and endplates, which means they cannot simply shift out of position. So, if discs don’t slip, what actually happens when someone experiences back pain related to a disc? That’s exactly what we’re going to explore today.To understand why the term “slipped disc” is misleading, we first need to look at how intervertebral discs are structured. Each disc is made up of two main components—the annulus fibrosus, which is the tough, fibrous outer layer made up of concentric rings of collagen, and the nucleus pulposus, a gel-like inner core that helps absorb and distribute shock. These discs act as cushions between the vertebrae, allowing for flexibility while also maintaining spinal stability. Because they are firmly integrated into the spine, they cannot become dislodged or move out of place.Instead of slipping, intervertebral discs can undergo structural changes due to mechanical stress, aging, or injury. These changes can lead to conditions such as disc bulging, disc herniation, or disc degeneration. Disc bulging occurs when the annulus fibrosus weakens, causing the disc to extend slightly outward. This is a normal part of aging and doesn’t always cause pain. Many people have bulging discs without experiencing any symptoms at all. Disc herniation, on the other hand, happens when small tears develop in the annulus fibrosus, allowing the nucleus pulposus to push through. This can sometimes irritate nearby nerves, leading to pain or discomfort. Disc degeneration is another common condition where the discs lose hydration and height over time, reducing their ability to absorb shock efficiently. These changes are natural adaptations of the spine, not indications that something is out of place.The issue with the term “slipped disc” is that it creates an image of something that is misaligned or needs to be “put back in place.” This misconception can cause unnecessary fear and anxiety, leading people to believe their spine is unstable or severely damaged. In reality, most disc-related changes are a normal part of spinal health and don’t always require extreme interventions like surgery. The key is understanding what’s happening in your spine and knowing how to manage symptoms effectively.While many people have disc bulges or degenerative changes without symptoms, a herniated disc can sometimes press on nearby nerves, leading to pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness. If the herniation occurs in the lower back, pain may radiate into the buttocks, thigh, calf, and even the foot. If the herniation happens in the neck, it may cause pain that extends into the shoulder, arm, or fingers. Some people describe this as a sharp or burning pain that worsens with certain movements, such as coughing or sneezing. However, not everyone with a herniated disc will experience symptoms, and some only discover they have one after undergoing spinal imaging for another issue.If you’re experiencing persistent back pain, numbness, or weakness that interferes with daily activities, it’s important to seek medical attention. In rare cases, a severely herniated disc can compress the cauda equina, a bundle of nerve roots in the lower spine, leading to loss of bladder or bowel control, progressive weakness...See the full post here:https://muscleandjoint.ca/Mississauga/do-spinal-discs-really-slip/Connect With Us!Phone: 905-593-1605Facebook: www.facebook.com/muscleandjointInstagram: www.instagram.com/muscleandjointX: www.x.com/muscleandjointLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/muscleandjoint

Welcome back to the Muscle and Joint Podcast! Today, we’re talking about a condition that often goes unnoticed but can cause a significant amount of discomfort—Deep Gluteal Syndrome, or DGS for short. If you’ve ever felt a persistent pain deep in your buttock, had trouble sitting for long periods, or experienced a tingling sensation running down your leg, you may be dealing with DGS. What makes this condition tricky is that its symptoms can mimic other issues like sciatica or lower back pain, making it difficult to pinpoint. However, the good news is that Deep Gluteal Syndrome is treatable, and today, we’re going to break down what it is, why it happens, and, most importantly, how to relieve the pain and get back to feeling your best.Deep Gluteal Syndrome occurs when the sciatic nerve—one of the largest nerves in the body—becomes compressed or irritated by nearby structures within the deep gluteal space. This region is made up of muscles, ligaments, and bones that work together to support movement and stability. Sometimes, tight muscles like the piriformis, fibrous bands, or even abnormal blood vessels can put excessive pressure on the sciatic nerve, leading to pain and discomfort. For years, this condition was mainly referred to as piriformis syndrome, but recent research has shown that nerve entrapment can be caused by various structures in the gluteal region, making Deep Gluteal Syndrome a broader and more accurate term.The symptoms of DGS can vary from person to person, but common signs include a persistent, deep ache in the buttock, especially when sitting or walking for long periods. Many people describe a burning or tingling sensation radiating down the leg, similar to sciatica. Others report cramping or tightness in the gluteal area after physical activity, along with weakness or instability in the lower limb. These symptoms can range from mild discomfort to severe pain, making it difficult to go about daily activities. Because DGS shares similarities with other conditions, a proper diagnosis is crucial to ensure the right treatment approach.Diagnosing Deep Gluteal Syndrome involves a thorough history, physical examination, and sometimes imaging tests to rule out other possible causes, such as lumbar spine issues or pelvic conditions. A healthcare provider may use movement tests like the Piriformis Stretch Test, which checks for pain reproduction in the gluteal area, or the Active Piriformis Test, which assesses hip rotation for signs of sciatic nerve irritation. In some cases, an MRI or high-resolution imaging may be recommended to identify abnormalities in the deep gluteal space. Once a diagnosis is confirmed, treatment can begin, and the best part is that most cases of DGS can be managed without surgery.See the full post here: https://muscleandjoint.ca/Mississauga/understanding-deep-gluteal-syndrome-causes-symptoms-and-solutions/Connect With Us!Phone: 905-593-1605Facebook: www.facebook.com/muscleandjointInstagram: www.instagram.com/muscleandjointX: www.x.com/muscleandjointLinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/company/muscleandjoint

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS), a type of arthritis, primarily affects the spine, causing inflammation in the spinal joints and ligaments that can lead to severe pain and stiffness. Over time, this inflammation may cause the vertebrae to fuse, resulting in a rigid and inflexible spine. This progressive disease, also called axial spondyloarthritis, can impact daily activities, posture, and quality of life. Though there’s no cure, various treatments can help manage symptoms and improve mobility. Here, we’ll explore the symptoms, causes, risk factors, and some effective management strategies. What Is Ankylosing Spondylitis? Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory disease that affects not only the spine but also peripheral joints like the hips, shoulders, knees, and even the ribs. Typically, the spinal joints and ligaments support movement and flexibility, but AS causes them to become inflamed, leading to pain and stiffness. In advanced cases, new bone forms as part of the body’s healing response, causing sections of the spine to fuse, which results in a hunched or stooped posture. AS can also affect other body systems, leading to eye inflammation (uveitis), skin conditions like psoriasis, and gut diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). The most common symptom of ankylosing spondylitis is persistent lower back and hip pain that may worsen during rest or inactivity. Many people experience more pain at night or after long periods of sitting, but the pain often improves with movement and exercise. AS symptoms can vary widely and may include: Lower back and hip pain: Often worse in the morning and improves throughout the day. Stiffness: Especially noticeable in the spine and hips, impacting flexibility. Joint pain: Pain and inflammation can extend to the shoulders, knees, ribs, and feet. Difficulty breathing: Caused by stiffness in the rib cage, which limits lung expansion. Eye inflammation: Uveitis, causing red eyes, light sensitivity, and vision changes. Fatigue: Chronic inflammation can lead to persistent tiredness. Digestive issues: Some people may experience abdominal pain and changes in bowel habits. Ankylosing spondylitis often progresses in “flares,” where symptoms become more intense, followed by periods of remission. It’s essential to monitor these symptoms closely and seek medical advice when pain or stiffness worsens. AS can affect anyone, though certain factors may increase the likelihood of developing the condition: Genetics: Most people with AS carry the HLA-B27 gene, though not everyone with the gene develops the disease. Family history: A family history of AS can elevate the risk. Age: Symptoms typically begin before age 45, though they can start as early as adolescence. Related conditions: Those with Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, or psoriasis may have a higher risk. Research has shown that the HLA-B27 gene is closely linked to AS, though other genetic and environmental factors also play a role. Studies continue to investigate additional genetic variations to better understand AS. In severe cases, ankylosing spondylitis can lead to complications that extend beyond the spine: Spinal fusion: New bone formation causes vertebrae to fuse, leading to a loss of spinal flexibility and a fixed posture. Restricted lung capacity: Fusion in the rib cage can limit lung expansion, making deep breaths challenging. Compression fractures: Weakened vertebrae increase the risk of fractures, potentially pressing on spinal nerves. Heart issues: Inflammation in AS can enlarge the aorta, the body’s largest artery, affecting heart function. See the full post here! Connect with us! ⁠Muscle and Joint Website⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠X⁠ ⁠Book Your Visit Today By Clicking Here!⁠ ⁠Ph: 905-593-1605⁠

Hi I am Dr Malik, and today we will be talking about ways to enhance your health and wellbeing. In today’s fast-paced world, keeping health and wellness at the forefront can be challenging, yet making small, informed changes can lead to significant, lasting benefits for your body and mind. Today, let’s unpack some practical steps toward a healthier lifestyle that cover everything from setting habits and getting moving to managing stress, metabolism, and weight. By building awareness and taking action in these key areas, we can all take charge of our well-being—one step at a time. Healthy habits form the bedrock of wellness, and building these into your daily routine can simplify the journey to better health. First up is nutrition. A balanced diet fuels the body, supplying vital nutrients for physical energy and mental clarity. Aim to make fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains your go-to staples. These foods provide essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which support everything from digestion to immune function. And hydration? It’s essential! The goal is to drink between 1.5 to 3 liters of water daily, depending on your activity level and climate. Proper hydration is crucial for cellular function, skin health, and even your ability to concentrate. Sleep also deserves a top spot on the priority list. In our 24/7 culture, good sleep is often sacrificed, yet it’s one of the most impactful ways to restore both mind and body. Quality sleep, ideally 7–9 hours a night, helps regulate hormones, improve memory, and reduce stress. Simple strategies, like keeping your room dark, avoiding caffeine later in the day, and limiting screen time before bed, can improve your sleep significantly. And don’t forget stress management. Adding relaxation techniques to your routine, such as deep breathing, meditation, or spending time on hobbies, helps balance mental well-being and offers a much-needed break from the day’s demands. Movement is more than just exercise—it’s about integrating activity into your daily life. For adults, experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity weekly, which equates to around 30 minutes, five days a week. This might sound like a lot, but you can break it down. Even brief spurts of activity, like taking a walk, stretching during TV time, or doing a quick online workout, can contribute to your weekly target. Physical activity benefits nearly every aspect of health, including heart health, lung function, and mental well-being, by reducing stress and lifting your mood. Strength training is also essential. Working with weights or even just using your body weight builds and maintains muscle, which supports metabolism and strengthens bones. Aim for strength training exercises targeting all major muscle groups twice a week. Building muscle not only supports your metabolism but also enables you to maintain independence in daily activities as you age. Techniques like gradual progression—adding a little weight over time—and focusing on controlled movements help build a safe, effective strength regimen. Remember, it’s better to start small and gradually build up to more intensive workouts as you grow stronger. Stretching and flexibility exercises also play a vital role. Practices like yoga or Pilates enhance range of motion, protect joints, and help prevent injuries. A balanced fitness routine includes cardiovascular, strength, and flexibility training, giving your body a full-spectrum workout that promotes health and vitality. Connect with us! ⁠Muscle and Joint Website⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠X⁠ ⁠Book Your Visit Today By Clicking Here!⁠ ⁠Ph: 905-593-1605⁠

The latest TikTok trend taking the younger generation by storm is something called “mewing.” When I first heard the term, my immediate thought was that it might have something to do with cats. But mewing has nothing to do with feline behavior and everything to do with the pursuit of a sharper jawline. With the school season here, it’s essential for parents and caregivers to understand what this trend entails, as it’s rapidly becoming popular, particularly among young boys eager for a chiseled look. So, what exactly is mewing? It’s a technique where individuals press their tongue firmly against the roof of their mouth, with the hope of reshaping their facial structure, particularly the jawline. Many young people have adopted this practice as part of a larger social movement called “looksmaxxing,” where the goal is to optimize or “maximize” one’s appearance to fit conventional beauty ideals. Social media is filled with teens demonstrating mewing techniques, convinced that this simple exercise will help them achieve that strong, angular jawline they’re after. At first glance, mewing may appear to be just another harmless online fad—maybe even a bit silly. But there's a troubling side to this trend. The intense focus on altering facial features through sustained, unnatural pressure on the jaw raises real concerns. From a chiropractic perspective, repeatedly pressing the tongue against the upper palate could lead to jaw misalignment, tension, and even temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. These issues can result in persistent jaw pain, chronic headaches, and difficulties with basic actions like chewing and speaking. The physical consequences alone make mewing far from the “quick fix” it's portrayed as on social media. Beyond the physical risks, mewing is part of a wider, concerning online phenomenon. There are “schools” popping up online, like one called “Mogwarts,” where young people pay to learn the supposed art of mewing and other techniques to “improve” their facial structure. The creators of these platforms are capitalizing on the insecurities of young people, making big promises that are unsupported by credible science. Alongside these “schools” are products like Stronger Gum and Jawliner, which advertise a quick and easy way to a better jawline, despite the lack of clinical evidence to support their claims. It’s a reminder of how rapidly these trends are being commercialized, even at the potential cost of young people’s health. Perhaps the most alarming aspect of mewing is the sheer volume of misinformation surrounding it. Despite the lack of research supporting its effectiveness, mewing’s popularity continues to grow, fueled by social media pressures and the relentless search for quick, visible results. For parents, this trend poses a unique challenge. Simply limiting phone use or banning social media doesn’t solve the problem. What’s needed is open communication with young people, addressing the root insecurities that make them vulnerable to trends like mewing in the first place. The desire to look one’s best is natural, but the methods young people are drawn to today, like mewing, bring real health risks. As a chiropractor, I feel it’s crucial to inform parents, educators, and caregivers about these trends and to encourage a focus on holistic well-being rather than superficial beauty standards. Supporting our youth in prioritizing their health, both physical and mental, over fleeting online trends will help them build resilience against the pressures they encounter daily. Let's guide them toward a healthier, more balanced view of beauty that supports their long-term well-being. This podcast was made for information and entertainment only. Before making any lifestyle or health modifications, be sure to consult with an appropriate health care practitioner. Connect with us! ⁠Muscle and Joint Website⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠X⁠ ⁠Book Your Visit Today By Clicking Here!⁠ ⁠Ph: 905-593-1605⁠