January 2026
Welcome 2026! The year of the horse… or so they say. A new year brings thoughts of resolutions, changes, upgrades and improvements. Some people like to create a word or phrase for the upcoming year ahead- narrowing down areas of their life they would like to focus on. Ultimately we hope you feel refreshed after the busy holiday season. Hopefully some time off to reflect on 2025 and set your sights forward onto 2026.
Dr. Johnston spent Christmas at home with her husband and girls, then went skiing with her family for a week over New Years. Alexandria, who turns 8 on January 25, and Isla are becoming quite the skiing duo! They started lessons and are excelling very well on the slopes. It is amazing how fast kids learn when they have high confidence and little fear!
Drs. Leguard and Hubbel spent the 2 weeks away in Portugal with their family- Debra, you know her from around the office, John, Ainsley, Chloe, Issac and Nathan all enjoyed their time away. Fantastic food and wine, sightseeing tours and lots of walking (all uphill if you ask Dr. H). They visited Lisbon, Porto and the Algarve. It is a beautiful country from top to bottom!
Our staff enjoyed the much deserved time off as well. Carleigh enjoyed lots of family time, ice skating, playing board games and lots of laughter! Julie enjoyed some family time with her granddaughter, Chelsea, and then some quiet time off, just her and Ron. Karen, and the fellow grandparents in her family, handed the reins over to the next generation. The ladies hosted a perfect Christmas with great food, games and wonderful atmosphere! Louise had a nice quiet holiday with her husband, unfortunately due to bad weather some plans got cancelled, but she is returning well rested and ready for a busy year. Carolyn had a nice holiday with her two children and almost 2 year old granddaughter.
Clinic updates:
We will be hitting the ground running on Monday, January 5! No major changes occurring at this time, other than the doctors and staff are now taking their lunch between 1-2pm instead of 2-3pm.
Carleigh will be enjoying a week away in Mexico with her husband and children. Louise will be away enjoying some sunshine with her husband at the end of January into February.
Lift Light to Shovel Right
Lift Light to Shovel Right
Winter weather can pack a punch. And with the season’s heavy snowfalls, improper snow shovelling is often to blame for injuries.
Shovelling your walkway or driveway after a storm doesn’t have to leave you stiff and sore. With a little know-how, you can clear the snow without the all-too-common back, neck and shoulder pain. Here’s how:
Before you start
Drink plenty of water. Dehydration is just as big an issue in the winter months as it is in the summer.
Dress in several layers so you can remove a layer as you get warm.
Wear proper footwear. Shoes and boots with solid treads on the soles can help to minimize the risk of slips and falls.
Pick the right shovel. Use a lightweight, non-stick, push-style shovel. A smaller blade will require you to lift less snow, putting less strain on your body. An ergonomically correct model (curved handle) will help prevent injury and fatigue. Also, if you spray the blade with a silicone-based lubricant, the snow will slide off more easily.
Warm-up for 5 to 10 minutes before beginning any snow removal to get your joints moving and increase blood circulation. A brisk walk will do it.
Three snow shovelling techniques so you can stay safe and fit all winter
Push, don’t throw
Push the snow to one side and avoid throwing it. If you must throw it, avoid twisting and turning — position yourself to throw straight at the snow pile.
Bend your knees
Use your knees, leg and arm muscles to do the pushing and lifting while keeping your back straight.
Watch for ice
Be careful on icy walkways and slippery surfaces. Intermittent thaws and subsequent freezing can lead to ice building up underfoot, resulting in nasty slips and falls. Throw down some salt or sand to ensure you have a good footing.
If you do experience pain, consult a health care professional to assess your specific needs and identify a course of action that’s right for you. Ask your chiropractor for an evaluation.
Information can be found on the Ontario Chiropractic association website: https://chiropractic.on.ca/self-management/lift-light-shovel-right/