 I know trying something new can come with a few questions — especially when it comes to chiropractic care. My goal is to make sure you feel comfortable, informed, and confident every step of the way.
Here’s a look at what you can expect during your first chiropractic appointment: A Thorough Health History We’ll start with a conversation about you — you, your health history, daily activities, and what brought you in. Whether you’re experiencing pain, tightness, or just want to move and feel better, I want to understand the full picture of your health and lifestyle. This part helps me get to know you — not just your symptoms — so I can create a care plan that fits your individual goals. A Comprehensive Examination Next, I’ll complete an assessment to see how your body is moving and functioning. This may include: ● Postural and movement evaluation ● Range of motion testing ● Orthopaedic and neurological tests ● Palpation to assess muscle and joint tension These findings help me understand what areas of your spine and body need support and what might be contributing to your symptoms. Review of Findings Once the assessment is complete, we’ll go through the results together. I’ll explain what’s happening in your body and how chiropractic care can help. I always make sure you understand what we’re seeing and why it matters — this is your body, and you deserve to feel confident about your care. We’ll also discuss your goals and what kind of care plan makes the most sense for you. Treatment If it’s appropriate, we’ll begin treatment during your first visit. I often combine a few different techniques based on your needs and comfort, which may include one or all of the followings: ● Chiropractic adjustments to improve joint mobility and alignment. This may include manual adjustments, mobilization, gentle drop adjustments or instrument assisted adjustments with an activator tool ● Soft tissue therapy or stretches to release muscle tension and improve flexibility ● Acupuncture to reduce pain, inflammation, and promote healing ● Rehabilitation exercises to strengthen and stabilize your body Each treatment plan is different depending on you, your comfortability as well as your complaint and is explained step-by-step so you always know what to expect and feel comfortable throughout your visit. Moving Forward Before you leave, I’ll provide a recommended frequency of treatment as well as recommendations for at-home exercises, stretches, or lifestyle tips to help support your progress. Chiropractic care is a team effort — my role is to guide you, but your active involvement is what leads to the best long-term results. Your first chiropractic visit at Dalhousie Health & Wellness is about more than just treatment — it’s about understanding your body and taking the first step toward moving and feeling your best. My goal is to make your experience educational, personalized, and empowering from start to finish. I’m always happy to answer questions and help you feel at ease during your care journey! Dr. Kerry, Chiropractor
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 As a former competitive Irish dancer, I know firsthand how demanding high-level sports can be on a young athlete’s body. Hours of training, competitions, and repetitive movements can push teens to their limits — both physically and mentally, on top of busy sedentary days at school. Now, as a chiropractor at Dalhousie Health & Wellness I see the same drive and passion in the athletic teens I treat, whether they’re dancers, hockey players, runners, or gymnasts.
But I also see the toll it can take. Overuse injuries, muscle imbalances, and fatigue are incredibly common — and often ignored until they start affecting performance. The good news? Chiropractic care can help athletes not only recover from injuries, but also perform at their best and prevent future issues. Why Teens Are at Higher Risk for Injuries Teen athletes are still growing — which means their bones, muscles, and joints are constantly changing. When you combine that with hours of sitting at school, high training loads, competition schedules, and sometimes less-than-ideal recovery time, the risk of strain or injury rises. Common issues I see in teen athletes include:
Chiropractic care focuses on optimizing how the body moves and functions. For athletic teens, this means improving mobility, balance, and coordination — all key to strong, efficient movement. Treatment might include:
My Perspective as a Former DancerYears of Irish dance taught me the importance of precision, strength, and discipline — but also how easy it is to push through pain or ignore warning signs. That’s why I’m so passionate about helping young athletes understand their bodies and listen to what they need. I want to be the person that I needed as a teen. Performance doesn’t come from just training harder — it comes from moving smarter, recovering well, and keeping your body in alignment. Chiropractic care is one piece of that holistic puzzle. Whether your teen is an elite competitor or simply loves being active, they deserve to move freely, confidently, and without pain. Chiropractic care at Dalhousie Health & Wellness can play a key role in keeping them healthy, balanced, and ready to perform — in sport and in life. If your teen has been dealing with recurring aches or injuries, it might be time to take a closer look at how their body is functioning — not just how it feels. Dr. Kerry McCann Chiropractor at Dalhousie Health & Wellness  A concussion is more than “just a bump on the head.” It’s a mild traumatic brain injury that can affect the way your brain and body work together. While many people recover within a couple of weeks, others experience lingering symptoms like headaches, dizziness, brain fog, pressure, fatigue, or difficulty concentrating.
As an osteopathic manual practitioner, I’m passionate about supporting individuals on their recovery journey after a concussion. While osteopathy doesn’t replace medical care, it offers a gentle and effective way to help the body restore balance and support healing. Understanding Concussion Symptoms A concussion can create a wide range of symptoms, including:
These symptoms often arise because of changes in blood flow, tension in the tissues around the head and neck, and disruptions in how the nervous system regulates itself. How Osteopathy Can Help Osteopathy at Dalhousie Health & Wellness focuses on the interconnectedness of the body. After a concussion, tension and restriction don’t just happen in the head—they can affect the spine, muscles, circulation, and even breathing. Gentle osteopathic techniques aim to:
Osteopathic treatment is always gentle and adapted to your current stage of healing. There are no forceful adjustments. Instead, the focus is on light touch and subtle techniques that encourage the body to release tension and regain function. What to Expect in a Session During a session, we’ll review your symptoms and history, then assess the body for areas of restriction or imbalance. Treatment is tailored to the individual. The goal is to support—not push—your recovery. Final Thoughts
 Looking for a natural way to rejuvenate your skin and age gracefully? Discover the revitalizing power of facial acupuncture at Dalhousie Health & Wellness in St. Catharines
This gentle, holistic treatment is becoming one of the most sought-after natural skincare solutions for people who want to enhance their glow without injections or harsh chemicals. What Is Facial Acupuncture? Facial acupuncture uses tiny, ultra-thin needles placed strategically on the face and body. These create micro-stimulations that help your skin increase collagen production, improve circulation, and restore a healthy, radiant glow 💫 Unlike conventional cosmetic treatments, facial acupuncture works from the inside out, helping to balance your body’s energy (Qi) while rejuvenating your skin naturally. Benefits of Facial AcupunctureRegular facial acupuncture sessions at Dalhousie Health & Wellness can help with: 💆♀️ Reducing fine lines and wrinkles 🌸 Releasing facial tension and improving symmetry 💧 Enhancing skin tone, colour, and moisture balance 🌿 Reducing puffiness and tightening sagging skin The Dalhousie Health & Wellness Difference At Dalhousie Health & Wellness in St. Catharines, we take a holistic approach to skincare. Our facial acupuncture treatments are enhanced with gua sha and facial cupping to maximize your results and help you look — and feel — refreshed from within. These gentle, complementary therapies work together to: ✨ Stimulate lymphatic drainage ✨ Tone and firm facial muscles ✨ Release fascia and ease muscle tension ✨ Promote natural collagen production and radiance 🌼 Experience the Deluxe FacialTreat yourself to our Deluxe Facial — a rejuvenating self-care experience designed to leave your skin glowing and your mind deeply relaxed. Your Deluxe Facial includes: ✨ Facial acupuncture ✨ Gua sha (scraping therapy) ✨ Facial cupping ✨ A soothing mini head massage It’s the ultimate way to restore balance, release tension, and reveal your natural beauty 💖 Book Your Facial Acupuncture in St. Catharines TodayReady to glow naturally? Visit Dalhousie Health & Wellness in St. Catharines to experience the benefits of facial acupuncture, gua sha, and facial cupping for yourself. ✨ Book your Deluxe Facial today and give your skin the care it truly deserves. #DalhousieHealthAndWellness #StCatharines #facialacupuncture #naturalbeauty #collagenboost #guasha #facialcupping #holisticwellness #agegracefully #selfcare #NiagaraWellness #StCatharinesSpa #NaturalSkincare Becoming a mother is one of the most powerful transformations a woman can go through. But somewhere between feeding schedules, sleepless nights, and healing bodies — many new moms are left wondering:
“Who is taking care of me?” Postpartum recovery isn’t just about waiting six weeks for “all clear” from your doctor. It’s about reconnecting with your body, restoring stability, and supporting your physical and emotional well-being as it adapts to a brand-new role. That’s where osteopathy can make a powerful difference. The Realities of a Postpartum Body Pregnancy and birth—whether vaginal or cesarean—place incredible strain on the body. After delivery, most moms experience:
How Osteopathy Supports Postpartum Healing Osteopathic treatment is gentle, hands-on care that works with your body to restore balance, mobility, and circulation. It looks at your whole body, not just one sore area. During postpartum sessions, treatment may focus on: ✅Releasing Tension & Pain Realigning the pelvis, sacrum, and spine to reduce back, hip, or tailbone pain. ✅Supporting the Pelvic Floor Improving blood and lymphatic flow to help with healing and relieving that heavy “falling out” sensation. ✅Improving Posture for Feeding & Baby Care Addressing neck, shoulder, and rib restrictions — because hunched-over nursing posture is real! Also great for breastfeeding mamas!! ✅Supporting Emotional Well-Being When your body feels better, your mind does too. Many moms leave feeling lighter, calmer, and more grounded. When Can You Start Osteopathy After Birth?
You Deserve Care Too As moms, we’re quick to prioritize everyone else. But healing isn’t a luxury — it’s a foundation. Whether you're feeling pain, weakness, or just not quite yourself, osteopathy offers a safe, nurturing way to support your recovery and reconnect with your body. ✨Your postpartum journey doesn’t have to be one of discomfort. ✨With the right support, you can feel strong, mobile, and at home in your body again. Krista, Osteopath at Dalhousie Health & Wellness  Evening can be the hardest time to unwind. The mind races through unfinished thoughts, the body holds the day’s tension, and sleep feels far away. For many women, this rhythm disruption becomes a nightly pattern — a nervous system that’s stuck in go-mode when the body longs for rest.
One of my favorite ways to help the body remember how to exhale again is through lemon balm (Melissa officinalis) — my Herb of the Year for its gentle, harmonizing presence. 🌙 A Nervous System AllyLemon balm is a true botanical balm for the nervous system. It soothes without sedating, helping the body downshift into parasympathetic “rest and digest” mode. I often describe it as a “soft exhale in plant form” — ideal for women whose evenings are marked by anxious looping, irritability, or restlessness. It gently supports the neurotransmitters GABA and serotonin, calming the overactive mind while easing the body into a state of safety. Over time, lemon balm helps re-teach the nervous system what evening rhythm feels like — a daily return to calm rather than collapse. 🌿 Part of My Nightly RitualEvery evening, I steep dried lemon balm leaves (can be fresh if you have them) in hot water for 10–15 minutes, often alongside a touch of honey. As the aroma fills the air, I use that moment to slow down my breath and soften my shoulders. This simple ritual marks a transition — from doing to being, from daylight to inner quiet. It’s not just tea; it’s an anchor. If you struggle to unwind, try pairing lemon balm tea with dimmed lights, a short stretch, or a few minutes of journaling. The consistent signal to your body that “it’s safe to rest now” is what begins to re-regulate your nervous system over time. 🌿 A Digestive and Immune Ally TooWhile many know lemon balm for its calming effects, it’s also a powerful carminative — easing digestive discomfort, bloating, and tension that arise when stress disrupts the gut-brain axis. And beyond the nervous system, lemon balm’s antiviral properties (thanks to rosmarinic acid and other polyphenols) support immune balance. I often think of it as a plant that brings integration: what calms the nerves also steadies the gut, and what steadies the gut strengthens immune resilience. 💛 Bringing It All Together In a world that prizes productivity, lemon balm invites us to soften, digest, and restore. For women especially — whose hormonal and nervous systems crave cyclical rhythm — it reminds us that rest is not indulgent; it’s intelligent. Your evening ritual doesn’t have to be elaborate. It just has to be consistent, soothing, and anchored in presence. And sometimes, all it takes is a warm cup of lemon balm tea to begin coming home to yourself. Dr. Aoife Earls, ND Dalhousie Health & Wellness  When people think of couples therapy, they often picture tense arguments, dramatic breakthroughs, or a therapist choosing sides. The truth is usually much gentler — and far more hopeful.
At Dalhousie Health & Wellness, couples therapy is about creating a safe and supportive space where both partners feel heard, respected, and connected. If you’ve been curious about what really happens in a couples counselling session, here’s what you can expect: 1. Couples therapy isn’t about blame. Many people avoid therapy because they worry it will turn into finger-pointing. In reality, therapy isn’t about deciding who’s “right” or “wrong.” Instead, the focus is on understanding each other’s perspectives and uncovering the patterns that keep you stuck. 2. It’s practical, not just talk. A big part of couples counselling is learning new communication tools. At Dalhousie Health & Wellness, couples leave sessions with strategies to listen more effectively, express themselves without escalation, and repair after conflict. These skills make a difference in everyday life — not just in the therapy room. 3. Emotions are welcome. Strong feelings often come up in sessions — and that’s okay. The therapist’s role is to create a safe environment where emotions lead to connection instead of distance. 4. Small shifts create lasting change. Most relationships don’t transform overnight. What really makes a difference are the small adjustments: a softer tone, pausing before reacting, or reaching out with a gesture of care. Over time, these small shifts rebuild trust and connection. 5. It’s a team effort. Think of couples therapy at Dalhousie Health & Wellness like coaching for your relationship. Both partners show up with openness and willingness, and the therapist provides guidance, structure, and encouragement. It’s a collaborative process, not a quick fix. The takeaway: Couples therapy isn’t about judgment or keeping score — it’s about growth, healing, and finding your way back to each other. Whether you’re struggling with conflict, communication breakdowns, or simply want to strengthen your bond, couples counseling at Dalhousie Health & Wellness can be a meaningful step forward. 👉 Curious about what couples therapy could look like for you?At Dalhousie Health & Wellness, we offer a free 15-minute consultation. Reach out today to begin your journey together.  By Dr. Aoife Earls, Naturopathic Doctor | Dalhousie Health & Wellness
The postpartum period is one of the most significant physical, emotional, and psychological transitions in a person's life. Yet, many new mothers and parents feel unprepared for the reality of life after birth. It’s not just about caring for a newborn—it's about rediscovering yourself in a body and identity that feels completely unfamiliar. At Dalhousie Health & Wellness in St. Catharines, I see firsthand how postpartum challenges can leave new mothers feeling overwhelmed, uncertain, and disconnected from their own needs. As a naturopathic doctor, my role is to support this transformation—not to “fix” you, but to walk alongside you as you rebuild your health and reconnect with your body. What Really Happens During the Postpartum Period?Most people associate postpartum with the physical recovery after childbirth—but the reality is much broader and deeper. You’re not just healing physically; you’re relearning how to be in your body, forming new routines, processing emotions, and shifting your identity. For many, it’s a complete reckoning. You might find yourself asking:
Common Physical and Emotional Changes After BirthThe postpartum body undergoes an astonishing array of changes, many of which are not openly discussed. You may experience:
How Naturopathic Medicine Supports Postpartum RecoveryAs a naturopathic doctor with a special interest in women's health, I offer individualized, integrative care for the postpartum period. My goal is to help new mothers restore balance, rebuild strength, and find emotional resilience. Here’s how naturopathic medicine can help during postpartum: 1. Hormone RegulationWe use functional testing, nutrition, and herbal medicine to support healthy hormonal transitions, including estrogen, progesterone, thyroid hormones, and cortisol. 2. Nutrient RepletionPregnancy and breastfeeding deplete vital nutrients like iron, B12, omega-3s, and magnesium. We identify deficiencies and create tailored supplement and nutrition plans. 3. Digestive and Sleep SupportGut health and sleep patterns are often disrupted in postpartum. We work to restore digestive function and support better rest using natural, gentle approaches. 4. Mental and Emotional Well-BeingFrom the “baby blues” to postpartum anxiety or depression, mental health is a critical aspect of recovery. Naturopathic care includes homeopathy, adaptogens, acupuncture, and mind-body strategies to help you feel emotionally grounded. 5. Pelvic Floor and Musculoskeletal Healing We address core weakness, pelvic pain, and posture imbalances through referrals to pelvic floor physiotherapists, and use acupuncture and movement therapies to support physical healing. You Are Not Broken—You Are BecomingPostpartum isn’t just a recovery. It’s a rebirth—of you as a parent, a person, and a whole new version of yourself. This process deserves time, space, and compassionate care. At Dalhousie Health & Wellness, I’m here to support you with personalized naturopathic care that honours your journey. Let’s make space for your healing. You don’t have to go through this alone. Ready to Get Support? Book an appointment with Dr. Aoife Earls, ND, and let’s work together to restore your health and well-being during postpartum. What to Expect During Your First Visit Naturopathic Visit at Dalhousie Health and Wellness6/23/2025  If you’re thinking about visiting a naturopathic doctor for the first time, you might be wondering what the experience will be like. Whether you’re dealing with hormonal imbalances, digestive issues, fatigue, or just want to feel better in your body, stepping into a new clinic can feel like a big step. At Dalhousie Health and Wellness Naturopathic Clinic, our goal is to make you feel seen, heard, and supported—right from the start.
Here’s what to expect during your first visit. A Warm Welcome From the moment you walk through our doors, you’ll notice the difference. We've been told the clinic feels calm, grounding, and inviting. You won’t find harsh lights or rushed appointments here. Instead, we take time to get to know you—not just your symptoms, but the whole you. A Deep-Dive Into Your Health Your first appointment is typically 60 minutes long, and it's all about listening and investigating. You’ll sit down with one of our licensed Naturopathic Doctors and talk about everything from your current concerns and health history to your lifestyle, diet, stress levels, and emotional wellbeing. No detail is too small—this is the time for us to connect the dots and look at your health from a holistic perspective. Testing, If NeededWe may recommend lab work or functional testing to get a clearer picture of what’s going on under the surface. At Dalhousie Health and Wellness, we offer access to a wide range of testing, including hormone panels, food sensitivity testing, nutrient levels, gut health assessments, and more. But don’t worry—you’re always in control. We’ll explain everything thoroughly and only recommend tests that feel aligned with your goals and values. A Personalized Treatment Plan After we’ve gathered enough information, we’ll work together to build a treatment plan that’s as unique as you are. That might include:
Time for Your Questions We want you to leave feeling empowered, not confused. You’ll have time to ask questions, express concerns, and be part of the process every step of the way. This is a partnership, and your voice matters. Ongoing Care Healing takes time, and we’re here to walk with you through it. Follow-up visits help us track your progress, make adjustments, and continue supporting your body’s healing in a natural, sustainable way. You can expect us to check in regularly and cheer you on as you move toward feeling your best. Ready to Get Started? If you’ve been searching for a naturopath in St. Catharines or the Niagara region who truly listens, you’ve found the right place. At Dalhousie Health and Wellness Naturopathic Clinic, we believe your body has the wisdom to heal—and we’re here to help guide that process. We can’t wait to meet you and support you on your health journey. 📞 Call us or 📧 book online to schedule your first visit  Chronic pain is one of the leading reasons people seek out natural health care. Whether it’s fibromyalgia, arthritis, endometriosis, or recurring migraines, living with daily discomfort can be both physically and emotionally exhausting. And while conventional medicine often relies on prescription pain relievers, many people are now turning to naturopathic treatments in St. Catharines and the Niagara Region for more holistic, long-term relief.
At Dalhousie Health & Wellness our St. Catharines naturopathic clinic, we offer an integrative, root-cause approach to managing chronic pain—supporting your whole body, not just the symptoms. Common Chronic Pain Conditions We See in Niagara We support clients across the Niagara Region dealing with:
How Naturopathic Medicine Helps Chronic Pain As a licensed naturopathic doctors in St. Catharines, we don’t just look at where the pain is—we look at why it’s there. Our approach involves:
Our goal is to reduce inflammation, support tissue healing, and improve your overall resilience. 1. Nutrition for Inflammation and Pain ReliefAn anti-inflammatory diet is foundational. Many clients report less pain and stiffness when they shift away from processed foods and start nourishing their body with real, healing food. We may recommend:
2. Acupuncture for Chronic Pain ReliefOne of the most effective therapies we offer for chronic pain is acupuncture. Rooted in Traditional Chinese Medicine, acupuncture works by stimulating specific points on the body to:
3. Herbal and Nutritional Support for PainWe often prescribe customized botanical and nutritional supplements to help manage pain from the inside out. Common options include:
4. Mind-Body Approaches to Chronic PainPain is physical—but it’s also emotional and neurological. Chronic pain often involves heightened sensitivity in the nervous system and a stress-pain feedback loop. That’s why we support stress reduction and nervous system regulation through:
5. Hormonal and Immune System BalanceFor those dealing with hormone-related pain (like migraines, PMS, or endometriosis), or autoimmune-driven pain (like rheumatoid arthritis or fibromyalgia), we support:
Your Partner in Chronic Pain Relief – St. Catharines & Niagara RegionWe believe that you don’t have to “just live with it.” Whether you’re navigating a diagnosis like endometriosis or dealing with unexplained muscle tension and fatigue, naturopathic care offers a safe, supportive path to long-term pain relief. Our St. Catharines clinic proudly serves patients from across the Niagara Region—including Niagara Falls, Thorold, Welland, Grimsby, and beyond. Ready to explore a natural approach to pain relief?Let’s create a personalized plan to support your body, reduce your pain, and help you feel more like yourself again. 📍 Book your naturopathic consultation with Dr Michael Michna at Dalhousie Health & Wellness in St. Catharines today |
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