587-803-3354
Unit 310, 1918 Kensington Rd. NW Calgary, AB T2N 3R5
The NUCCA spinal correction is a scientifically-based, thoroughly researched and well-documented approach to health. (For publications and NUCCA research click here.) NUCCA is one of only a few procedures that use:
We are proud to be the first and only clinic in Alberta to also offer the Atlas Orthogonal Table Mounted Precision Adjusting Instrument.
Both NUCCA and A-O focus on achieving an orthogonally balanced head, neck and spine for better postural function and comfort. Each method acquires specific x-rays of the patient’s head and neck to measure the geometry of the skull and neck anatomy to provide the precise adjusting angle that is specific for that individual. This custom tailored adjustment angle is what allows both techniques to utilize a very gentle force to move the head and neck into the corrected and balanced position. Both methods position the patient on their side to deliver the correction and head positioning is carefully set to ensure the force of gravity can play a role in supporting the adjustment. Finally, both methods involve two post x-rays following the initial treatment to confirm the proper adjustment was administered and the patient can be on their way to healthy restoration of balance in their system.
The difference is how the adjustments are delivered:
For the majority of people, the outcome is similar in terms of relief and success with lasting benefits. The techniques can be used interchangeably. However, some appreciate the quickness of the A-O procedure and might find the smaller contact surface of the force delivery to support more stability of correction in certain cases. For some, it might also be easier to tolerate the adjustment when in an acute headache or dizziness episode, as it does not stimulate the mechanoreceptors of the neck in the same way.
Every individual is welcome to discuss with their Vibe doctors the benefits and differences of each approach and which one may be best for their circumstances.
Acupuncture is a common treatment modality within the larger system known as Traditional Chinese Medicine. The practice has a written history in China of 2000 years but dates back another thousand years or more before recorded history. It is currently used by a quarter of the world's population, mostly in Asia, and its popularity is growing rapidly in the West as scientific studies prove its efficacy. Acupuncture consists of the insertion of extremely fine needles into specific points to regulate the systems of the body and alleviate pain and dysfunction.
A qualified registered acupuncturist may use acupuncture in conjunction with herbal and diet therapy, exercise (Tai Chi, Qi Gong), tui na massage, moxibustion, cupping, and gua sha therapy techniques.
Over a few thousand years, dedicated Chinese doctors developed a working theory of acupuncture. They discovered channels along the body that connected the organs and various systems of the body. These channels or meridians acted as pathways where qi (vital energy, life force) circulated to maintain proper mental and physical function. The doctors found that when there was disease or dysfunction in the body, the qi was blocked or in a state of excess or deficiency. Acupuncture became an effective method to promote the flow of qi and restore balance to the body. By inserting needles in specific points along the channels, doctors could stimulate the body's qi to circulate properly, thus regulating organ and whole body function. Through the centuries, these doctors recorded their efforts, observations, and theory with astounding detail. Every generation learned from and improved upon those that came before.
Today, acupuncture is benefiting from modern research techniques. Countless studies are now supporting what the Chinese have known for so long. Though the exact mechanism of how acupuncture works in bio-medical terms is still unclear, some promising modern theories are being researched. What is known is that acupuncture works very well to relax muscles, reduce inflammation, stop pain, and calm the mind.
Yes. In Alberta, a registered acupuncturist undergoes several years of training and must pass a rigorous licensing exam to ensure the safe implementation of needles. All acupuncture needles used are pre-sterilized and disposable (single-use).
When administered by a skilled professional, acupuncture should not hurt. The hair-thin needles are not to be compared with the thick hypodermic syringes used for shots or drawing blood. A momentary prick may be felt around the needle as it is inserted, eventually creating a mild dull pressure or tingling around the area during the treatment. Most people are amazed by how relaxed they feel during and after the session. This can only occur if the treatment is comfortable and gentle.
We are passionate about acupuncture and Chinese medicine and are devoted to the highest quality patient care. Providing safe and effective acupuncture treatment is our daily practice and driving purpose.
We are a holistic clinic, focusing on the physical, mental, and spiritual aspects of the patient's state of health. All are equally important and influential in achieving an optimal state of balance and wellness.
We take our time with you. Your initial visit is approximately 90 minutes. Follow-up visits are approximately 60 minutes. There is always time for questions and discussion.
We educate you about what's wrong, why it's so, and how it can be fixed according to Eastern and Western medical perspectives. We aim to be clear in our communication and we’re always happy to explain what we’re doing.
When you have an acupuncture session, you may also receive herbal, nutritional, and meditation guidance, as well as cupping, moxibustion, gua sha, and tui na massage when necessary, all at no extra cost.
We intentionally created a unique clinic environment, specifically designed to encourage peace of mind and to support the healing process.
Schedules can be hectic, we completely understand. Morning, afternoon and evening appointments are available.
Please complete any intake or pre-screening forms emailed to you prior to your visit.
Wear loose fitting, comfortable clothing or bring a change of clothes with you.
Avoid tobacco, caffeine, alcohol and sedatives 2 hours before and 2 hours after treatment.
Do not engage in physically strenuous or excessively stressful activity 2 hours before and 2 hours after treatment.
Avoid eating large meals 1 hour before and 1 hour after treatment. Small amounts of food (snacks) before and after treatment are okay.
Do not come for treatment on a completely empty stomach.
After treatment, be sure to drink plenty of water, unless advised differently.
If treatment is for a pain condition, continue to avoid strenuous activity for 2 days after treatment, even if you are pain-free.
Until a discussion takes place about decreasing or stopping medications, continue to take prescription drugs as directed by your physician.
Depending on the nature, severity and duration of the complaint, the course of treatment will vary. As a general guideline, most acute problems can be fixed quickly, often with 1-5 treatments over a short amount of time. For more chronic conditions, the best outcome will be achieved with weekly or bi-weekly sessions over a period of a few weeks to a few months.
Every person responds uniquely to acupuncture. Some notice an immediate improvement in their health while others experience a cumulative effect over several visits. It should be noted that the speed of progress can be assisted by the patient's willingness to live and eat well in conjunction with the acupuncture therapy.
Though Alberta Health does not currently offer acupuncture coverage, many extended, or secondary health insurance plans provide financial assistance for acupuncture care. Be sure to check your plan as each provider offers varying amounts in coverage. Vibe Health & Spine is pleased to provide a complementary direct billing service should you have a supplementary insurance policy. You may speak with our patient care desk administration to take advantage of this service.
In addition, we have successfully assisted many individuals following motor vehicle accidents (MVA). You may be eligible for full coverage of acupuncture service following a car accident. Be sure to discuss acupuncture as an option with your primary care provider (chiropractor, medical doctor, or physiotherapist) if you've recently suffered an MVA.
Esoteric Acupuncture is a wellness-based healing practice which incorporates Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), sacred geometry and other energy systems. Sessions are individualized and patient experiences may include deep relaxation, personal insight and physical or visual sensations. Esoteric Acupuncture can facilitate the release of emotional or energetic blockages and increase spiritual awareness. Registered acupuncturist, Kendra Heck, has completed additional training in esoteric acupuncture and is pleased to offer this uniquely effective modality at Vibe Health & Spine.
What is Massage Therapy?
Massage is the manipulation of the body’s soft tissues. Its purpose is usually for the treatment of body stress and pain. Massage therapy may range from light stroking to deep pressure. There are many different types of massage. The most common ones are:
Benefits of Massage Therapy
Massage Therapy is one of the many beneficial alternative therapies. Such benefits may include:
Massage Therapy may also help with:
Some contra indications to receiving massage therapy can be:
If you have concerns with receiving massage, please consult your doctor with regards to your specific health issues.
What you can expect during a massage
At the beginning of a massage therapy session, the massage therapist will do an assessment. This involves questions about symptoms, medical history and what benefits you are hoping to receive from your massage treatment.
In a typical massage therapy session, you undress to the level of your comfort or wear loose fitting clothing. You may be asked to lie face up or down on our heated massage tables and are covered with a sheet. Only the part of the body being treated will be uncovered such as leg or back.
A massage session may last from 30 to 90 minutes. Depending on your reason to come for massage, the massage therapist will massage the full body (except private areas) or specific areas the need attention, such as very tight muscles or old injury. No matter what kind of massage you choose, You should always feel relaxed and comfortable with normal breathing and lowering stress.
It is always important to communicate during your massage with regards to the amount of pressure the therapist is using. If the pressure is too light, too hard, or painful, let your therapist know. Some muscles might be tender or have painful points. This is common and the therapist will help to reduce the level of discomfort in the muscles with different techniques. The therapist may also use a massage oil . Let the therapist know of allergies or skin sensitivities.
A Final Note
Some misconceptions regarding massage is that it is only something you do to pamper yourself or to just feel good. Massage therapy can be a wonderful tool to help with your mental and physical wellbeing, specific health concerns, and to support a healthy lifestyle.
CranioSacral Therapy (CST) is a gentle, hands-on method of evaluating and enhancing the functioning of a physiological body system called the craniosacral system - comprised of the membranes and cerebrospinal fluid that surround and protect the brain and spinal cord. Using a soft touch generally no greater than 5 grams, or about the weight of a nickel, practitioners release restrictions in the craniosacral system, which has been shown to improve the functioning of the central nervous system, as well as many other systems of the body, such as digestive, musculoskeletal, respiratory, circulatory, and more. CST has also been shown to help with the physical components related to such somatic conditions as Post Traumatic Stress, depression and anxiety.
By facilitating the body's natural and innate healing processes, CST is increasingly used as a preventive health measure for its ability to bolster resistance to disease, and has been shown to be beneficial for people seeking help with a wide range of healthcare challenges and symptoms including:
Healing Touch & Biofield Energy Medicine is an energy therapy in which practitioners consciously use their hands in a heart-centered and intentional way to support and facilitate physical, emotional, mental and spiritual health. Healing Touch is a biofield (magnetic field around the body) therapy that is an energy-based approach to health and healing. The goal of Healing Touch is to restore balance and harmonies in the energy system, placing the client in a position to self heal.
Deep Tissue Laser Therapy
CLINICALLY PROVEN PAIN RELIEF
Laser Therapy in Calgary is clinically chiropractor using a laserproven as an effective relief for pain and inflammation. Able to penetrate to deep tissue structures, it has the ability to treat a wide variety of both acute and chronic conditions including low back pain, hip bursitis, and chronic neck pain
ALTERNATIVE TO DRUGS AND SURGERY
The non-invasive nature of Deep Tissue Laser Therapy provides a solution for those who are looking for alternatives to prescription drugs and surgery.
WHAT TO EXPECT
Patients feel a soothing warmth as laser energy gently penetrates tissue and boosts your body’s own regeneration powers to relieve your pain. Relief care are painless and fast (5 to 10 min).
Results can be immediate but the most observed results are after 3 to 5 relief sessions. The body continues to benefit from the effects of the therapy for 18-24 hours after relief care. During this time, modulated cellular activity leads to decreased pain and inflammation.
SEE IF DEEP TISSUE LASER THERAPY IS RIGHT FOR YOU
Providing a solution that did not exist before, Deep Tissue Laser Therapy has become preferred by those who have long sought relief without success. Its ability to impact pain on a cellular level provides pain relief for complex and simple conditions alike.
Deep Tissue Laser Therapy effectively treats pain and inflammation associated with:
And Much More
