Dr Melissa Reinke is certified as a Postpartum Corrective Exercise Specialist (PCES). She follows the most up to date evidence and exercise protocols to correct conditions in the body that are created from pregnancy, birth and the added mechanical strain of postpartum life.

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.