Chiropractic The Doctor of Chiropractic works directly with the nerves, muscles and joints of the body. These are the essential parts of the body that control your posture and your ability to move. When these parts of your body do not function well or are injured, they present as common conditions like neck and back pain, headaches, arthritis, whiplash, sprains and strains. These conditions represent some of the most common reasons for going to see any healthcare provider. The Doctor of Chiropractic is a neuromusculoskeletal specialist, specifically trained to provide, what is widely accepted in the healthcare community, as one of the most effective treatments for the above conditions. Since chiropractors are primary health care providers you do not need a referral to go to a chiropractor. We use both instrument (PulstarFRAS, Neuromechanical, Activator and Torque Release) and manual (Diversified, Gonstead and Thompson) adjusting techniques at Discover Health Centre. The PulstarFRAS (Fixation Recording and Analysis System) is a computer guided spinal analysis and adjustment. The instrument utilizes precision controlled, low force multiple impulses to provide a gentle adjustment. This is very different in comparing other techniques. The computer analyzes your spine with a gentle tap and displays the areas of your spine that need to be treated. Using the computer, the chiropractor adjusts your spine with multiple low force taps. A post analysis of your spine is then taken to confirm the correct adjustment took place. The PulstarFRAS is able to store your visits and graph your treatment progress, so that you can compare one treatment to the next to see the improvement that has been attained. Naturopathic Medicine Naturopathic Medicine is a comprehensive approach to improving health and treating illness. Focusing on prevention and using natural substances and treatments, Naturopathic doctors (NDs) support and stimulate the body’s ability to heal itself. The primary goal of naturopathic treatment is to address the cause of illness, rather than treat or suppress symptoms. The client is seen as a whole person, and the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual dimensions are all taken into account when diagnosing and developing a treatment plan. Virtually all chronic and many acute conditions may benefit from naturopathic treatment. Some of the most common conditions brought to NDs include Digestion, Constipation, IBS, Crohn’s, Colitis Fertility, Enhancing Pregnancy, PMS, Menopausal symptoms Chronic Fatigue, Allergies, Arthritis, Fibromyalgia Eczema, Psoriasis, Acne, Rosacea Bladder infections, Yeast infections Colds and flu, Ear and throat infections, Headaches Endometriosis, Uterine Fibroids, Prostate issues, Impotence Anxiety , Depression, Insomnia, Hyperactivity High Cholesterol, High Blood Pressure Cancer Naturopathic treatments include a number of different types of natural therapies. Each therapy can be used alone or in combination. Naturopathic Treatments Include: Clinical Nutrition Clinical nutrition examines the relationship between diet and health. Special detoxification diets may be recommended as well as diets for weight loss, diabetes, candidiasis, allergies, skin conditions, arthritis, cancer, and cardiovascular disease. Nutritional supplements such as vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and pro-biotics may also be prescribed. Herbal Medicine The use of plants for healing dates back to the beginnings of civilization and is the foundation of modern pharmacology. Plant substances from around the world are used for their nutritional value and healing effects. Homeopathic Medicine Based on the principle of “like cures like” homeopathic medicine was developed in the 1700’s. Minute amounts of natural substances are used to stimulate the body’s self healing abilities. Acupuncture Based on the concept of balancing the flow of energy (Chi) through meridian pathways, acupuncture is used to rebalance the organ systems and reduce pain caused by blockages in the flow of energy in the body. Physical Medicine Physical treatments used by ND’s include a variety of hands on techniques performed in the clinic or given to the client to do at home. The physical medicine treatments offered by Christine Slonetsky ND include hydrotherapy, and alpha-stim. For more information on alpha-stim, please see www.alpha-stim.com Counselling Physical, emotional, nutritional and environmental factors affect health. In addition to her Naturopathic training, Christine Slonetsky ND has a Master of Social Work degree from the University of Toronto. She offers lifestyle counseling and individual counseling to address emotional issues. Craniosacral Therapy CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the function of a physiological system called the craniosacral system. It is comprised of membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. It extends from the bones and connective tissues of the face, mouth and skull (cranium) down to the tailbone (sacrum). CST enhances the body’s natural healing process and has been effective for a range of conditions associated with pain and dysfunction including: Migraines and headaches Chronic neck and back pain Motor coordination impairments Stress and tension related problems Infantile disorders Traumatic brain and spinal cord injuries Chronic fatigue Central nervous system disorders TMJ Syndrome (Temporomandibular joint) Learning disabilities Emotional difficulties Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder…..and many other conditions CST is increasingly used as a preventative health measure for its ability to bolster resistance to disease and sustain overall good health. A CranioSacral therapy session takes place in a quiet private setting and clients remain fully clothed during the treatment. We recommend that clients wear loose, comfortable clothing. The CST session usually lasts between forty five minutes to an hour. Massage Therapy The practice of Massage Therapy is the assessment of the soft tissue and joints of the body and the treatment and prevention of physical dysfunction and pain of the soft tissue and joints by manipulation to develop, maintain, rehabilitate or augment physical function, or relieve pain. (Massage Therapy Act, 1991) Massage Therapy is an effective modality in treating numerous soft tissue problems associated with pain and dysfunction, such as: Back /Neck pain Sciatica/Pseudo-sciatica Headaches/Migraines Fibromyalgia Sprains/Strains Arthritis/Bursitis/Tendonitis Carpal Tunnel and TMJ Syndrome Massage Therapy is recommended for pregnancy, infants and adults for rehabilitation, improved joint mobility, well-being and relaxation. Hot Stone Massage Therapy Hot Stone Massage Therapy, also known as Geo-Thermo Hydrotherapy, is the combination of massage with the application of hot stones which are both massaged over the body and placed upon specific areas of the body. This holistic modality, through the application of heat produces a deeply relaxing and detoxifying treatment which is highly beneficial in the treatment of back, shoulder and neck pain, joint pain, tension headaches and overall stress. Other benefits include improved lymphatic circulation, increased circulation and metabolism as well as promoting overall well-being. Lymphatic Drainage Lymphatic Drainage is a hands-on technique that involves the use of gentle manual maneuvers to aid in the recirculation of body fluids. The functioning of a proper lymphatic system is critical to our body’s ability to drain, filter, regenerate tissues and maintain a healthy immune system. Lymphatic Drainage aids in the reduction of edema (swelling), relief of chronic pain, inflammations and detoxification of the body. As well as helping with insomnia, depression and stress relief, it works to help re-circulate body fluids, boost immune system and create overall relaxation. custom orthotics and orthopaedic footwear Since feet are the major weight-bearing part of the body, foot pain is common; half of Canadians have missed at least a day of work because of foot problems. The foot contains 26 bones and many small structures which support and balance the weight of the entire body. Walking puts up to 1.5 times one's body weight on the foot, and humans walk an average of 1,000 miles per year. Foot pain is not normal and should not be ignored. Problems can affect the functioning of other parts of the body, including the hips, knees, and back. Custom foot orthotics and orthopaedic footwear are used to treat conditions such as plantar fasciitis, metatarsalgia, chrondromalacia patellae, low back dysfunction and iliotibial band syndrome.