She is also certified in the
Webster
Technique.
This pregnancy specific treatment is used to prepare the pelvis for
birth. To learn more about this technique click here.
* If you are unsure of whether standard
Chiropractic, Webster Technique or Postpartum Rehabilitation is the right fit for you, please
Contact Us and Dr Melissa can help you
decide which treatment is best suited for your needs.
Postpartum Rehabilitation
Commonly treated conditions using the PCES approach include:
- Pelvic Floor Weakness
- Pelvic Floor Tightness
- Urinary Incontinence
- Diastasis Recti or Abdominal Bulging
- Pelvic Organ Prolopse- including post-surgical repair
- Abdominal/Inguinal Hernias
- Low Back and SI Joint Pain
- Disc Herniations
While these are relatively common postpartum issues, they are not
normal... and you don't have to continue to live with them. You also
don't have to be pregnant OR postpartum to suffer from them.
Many people with these issues feel like they've tried everything from
chiropractic, physiotherapy, acupuncture,
exercise, medications and even surgery. While these treatments can
help, if you are not addressing the root cause of the problem, the
symptoms will undoubtedly return.
So what is at the root of these problems?
The underlying cause is most often ineffective breathing patterns
and poor posture. These two
things combine to put either too much or too little pressure on our
body's basic core structures- the pelvic floor, abdominal wall, and low
back. Without an effective core, our body will adapt with poor movement
patterns and the problem
snowballs from there.
What is the solution?
First it's understanding and acknowledging the
problem.
Second it's retraining your body and brain to move the way it was
designed to. Third it's maintaining these correct movement patterns and
reinforcing them through exercise and continued mindfulness.
We all have fascia (connective tissue) links which connect different
muscles throughout our body. So a poor movement pattern in one area can
have a widespread effect on the whole body: from your jaw, to your back,
to the arches of your feet. It's important that your body is assessed
and treated as a whole unit rather than just addressing the one area of
concern.
To be clear- this is NOT a quick fix passive treatment. You are
re-training breathing and movement patterns that have been ingrained
for years... and this takes a lot practice and patience.
If you think you don't have the time, not to worry. Life is busy- we
get it! No matter how much or little time you have in your day, we can
work with your schedule. The key is to be consistent.
Disclaimer: This program works based off of your
compliance to your exercise program. We are not offering any passive
treatments but rather are providing you with the tools you need to help
yourself. We understand that not everyone will be in the right mental or
physical place to start this program but when you are ready, we will do everything
we can to help.
Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect during my appointments?
Your first two appointments will focus on assessing your posture,
breathing, and movement patterns. We will also be doing specific muscle
testing for your hips, low back and pelvis to check for strength and
side to side imbalances.
From there, the appointments are individually catered to each
person based on their needs. At each follow up session we will be
going over your previous exercises, adding to your program and making
modifications. The focus is on perfecting your form, building strength
and re-balancing your core muscles.
How often do I need to come in?
The first two appointments are ideally scheduled one week apart, with
follow up sessions every 2-6 weeks depending on your needs. We are able to personalize
your treatment plan based on what works best for you and your schedule. As your compliance
for doing the homework is essential, we are mindful of offering
flexibility to help you from feeling overwelmed. You can expect
your first few appointments to be an hour, and then
as you progress we offer a shorter 40 minute appointment.
What do I wear to my appointments?
Please dress in comfortable clothing that you can move well in. Work
out clothes are ideal.
I am 20+ years postpartum... is this program right for me?
YES! There is no time limit on when you can be helped.
I'm not postpartum but I have one of the conditions listed
above. Can this program help me?
Absolutely. This program is designed around a postpartum body because
that is typically when our pelvic floor and core structures undergo the
most stress. However, it is applicable to everyone! The goal is to
re-train how your body moves, regardless of your gender, activity level,
past injuries or health history.
Do you include internal pelvic examinations or treatments?
No. As a chiropractor it is not within my scope of practice to do any
internal examinations of your pelvis. I can evaluate the tension of your
pelvic floor through hip muscle testing, breathing techniques, and with
your history questionnaire.
For some patients, I may recommend that you also include a pelvic
floor physiotherapist in your care.
Are these visits covered under Alberta Healthcare or my
Extended Health Benefits?
Chiropractic treatments are unfortunately not covered under Alberta
Healthcare, with
the exception of seniors over the age of 65.
Most Extended Healthcare plans do, however, include Chiropractic. If you have any questions about your individual benefits, please contact your insurance company directly.
We are able to direct bill to most insurance companies.
If you have any other questions, please feel free to call or
email the clinic. Dr Melissa also offers a free 15 minute consultation,
if you are unsure of whether this program is right for you.