IASTM
(INSTRUMENT ASSISTED SOFT TISSUE MOBILIZATION)

IASTM is used to address soft tissue adhesions which form between layers of muscle and fascia. Treatment involves a specialized stainless steel instrument to apply pressure and friction on the skin, along with a homeopathic anti-inflammatory cream. This “scraping” can help to stimulate the tissue to produce collagen, heal scar tissues and bring blood flow to the area. This treatment is especially effective with complaints such as carpal tunnel, plantar fascitiis, shoulder impingement and carpal tunnel, among others.

CUPPING

Whereas massage works to relax muscles and trigger points by applying pressure to an area, cupping works by releasing pressure to an area. The negative pressure created by the cups lifts the skin and allows increased blood flow, removing stagnation and congestion to tissues, and bringing oxygen and nutrients to the area. Cupping can be done actively to improve range of motion and mobility, or passively by relaxing with the cups for 5-10 minutes, allowing the muscles to release.

MUSCLE RELEASE & TRIGGER POINT THERAPY

Trigger points are areas of muscle that are tight and sensitive to the touch, and often feel like a “knot”. Pushing on trigger points can often cause referral patterns such as up the head or down the arms or legs. With muscle release and trigger point therapies, the doctor uses theirhands to apply pressure and tension to the affected area, while the patient actively moves the muscle through a range of motion. This helps to release the trigger points and muscular adhesions, which can improve flexibility, reduce pain and muscle tension and promote healing.

KINESIOLOGY TAPING

Our doctors are specially trained in kinesiology tape applications for many injuries, such as swelling, sprained ankles, shoulder impingement syndrome, pregnant belly support etc. The tape works by providing tactile stimulation to an area to help it relax, by helping the muscles activate properly, and by lifting the skin to help improve lymphatic drainage and blood flow to the region. Read more about kinesiology taping on our blog, here.

CORRECTIVE EXERCISE

The key to improving performance, reducing injury, and recovering fully includes exercise. As musculoskeletal experts, we can help identify areas that are lacking strength, mobility, or function and provide specific exercises that will support those areas. These exercises can be performed in the comfort of your own home, or at a gym. Dr. Mat was once a certified personal trainer, and Dr. Shantai was previously a competitive downhill ski racer, competing internationally. Due to this past experience, as well as the knowledge gained from becoming Chiropractors, we can help prescribe exercises that will benefit your health and wellness–no matter how big or small the goal!

PNF STRETCHING

PNF (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation) stretching involves both contracting and stretching targeted muscles. In a short period of time, significant improvements in muscular tension, mobility and range of motion can be made. PNF stretching works by improving neuromuscular communication, muscle activation and flexibility.

NUTRITION COUNSELING & TESTING

Our chiropractors are trained in nutrition counseling, and able to provide recommendations on dietary modifications and nutritional supplements to help you achieve your goals. We provide food sensitivity testing and DUTCH hormone testing as well, which can provide invaluable information for people struggling with brain fog, bloating, fatigue, chronic stress and hormone irregularities, among other issues.