Dr. Allison Baker – Chiropractor | Victoria, BC

Dr. Allison Baker is a dedicated Chiropractor practicing at Aurora Health and Wellness in Victoria, BC. Allison is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the College of Chiropractors of British Columbia (CCBC). Her focus is on delivering comprehensive chiropractic assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of neuromusculoskeletal conditions, with an emphasis on spinal health and overall well-being. Dr. Baker's approach is holistic and individualized, ensuring that each patient receives tailored care designed to promote natural healing and optimize body function.

Serving patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, Dr. Baker’s practice is equipped to address diverse health concerns. The clinic is registered to provide care for ICBC claims and offers direct billing to select extended health insurance providers such as Blue Cross, Chambers of Commerce Group Insurance Plan, Desjardins, Great West Life, Greenshield, iA Financial Group, Manulife, Sun Life Financial, and Telus eHealth. This ensures patients have convenient access to quality chiropractic services without unnecessary financial barriers. Dr. Baker’s dedication to ongoing professional development ensures her treatments are grounded in evidence-based practices and current clinical research.

With a philosophy centered on promoting natural, non-invasive healing, Dr. Baker emphasizes a holistic approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of the spine, nervous system, and overall health. She strives to empower her patients with knowledge about their conditions and proactive strategies for maintaining long-term health. Dr. Allison Baker offers care in English and is passionate about helping her patients achieve their health and wellness goals through personalized, effective chiropractic interventions.

Dr. Allison Baker provides skilled chiropractic care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

General Musculoskeletal & Systemic Conditions

• Chronic Pain Syndromes (with Biomechanical Factors): Addressing persistent pain where underlying joint dysfunction, muscle imbalance, nerve irritation, or altered movement patterns are identified as significant contributing factors.
• Tendinitis / Tendinopathy (Various Regions): Management of various tendinopathies throughout the body, such as rotator cuff tendinitis, patellar tendinopathy, or Achilles tendinopathy, using a multifaceted approach.

Hip, Leg & Foot Conditions

• Piriformis Syndrome / Deep Gluteal Pain: Pain in the buttock region, which can sometimes radiate down the leg mimicking sciatica, often caused by spasm or tightness of the piriformis muscle irritating the nearby sciatic nerve.
• Knee Pain (Osteoarthritis, Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - Conservative): Management of knee pain through chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and exercises aimed at improving joint function, stability, and reducing symptoms from conditions like runner's knee or mild meniscal tears.
• Plantar Fasciitis / Heel & Foot Pain: Sharp pain in the heel or bottom of the foot, especially with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest, due to inflammation or degeneration of the plantar fascia.

Specific Populations & Injury Types

• Postpartum Musculoskeletal Issues: Rehabilitation focused on restoring pelvic and spinal alignment, core strength, and addressing pain after delivery.
• Sports Injuries (Acute & Overuse): Comprehensive care for athletes of all levels, including accurate diagnosis, effective treatment, and targeted rehabilitation to ensure a safe and timely return to sport and prevent re-injury.
• Pregnancy-Related Musculoskeletal Pain: Management of common musculoskeletal discomforts experienced during pregnancy, such as low back pain, pelvic girdle pain (including symphysis pubis dysfunction), sciatica, and rib pain, using safe and gentle techniques.
• Motor Vehicle Accident Injuries (e.g., Whiplash, Back Strain): Comprehensive rehabilitation programs for individuals injured in MVAs, focusing on pain relief, restoring mobility, and addressing all accident-related physical complaints.

This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Dr. Baker can assess your needs.

• Core Stability & Strengthening Programs: Developing core strength and endurance to protect your spine during daily activities.
• PNF Stretching (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation): Advanced stretching techniques that involve both stretching and contracting muscle groups to quickly achieve greater flexibility and range of motion.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Personalized stretching routines to alleviate stiffness and improve tissue extensibility.
• Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) Exercises: A rehabilitative approach based on developmental movement patterns to restore and stabilize locomotor function, often used for complex cases (practitioner certification dependent).
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise programs including stretching, strengthening, and stabilization exercises designed to support your recovery, prevent re-injury, and improve overall function.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Electrotherapy for pain relief and muscle relaxation.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dr. Baker. For a full list or to discuss your specific needs, please contact the clinic.

All services are provided in accordance with standards set by the College of Chiropractors of British Columbia (CCBC).

At Aurora Health and Wellness, chiropractic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Dr. Baker frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Getting back to challenging myself with rock climbing, both indoors and on real rock faces after struggling with my kid's neck being stuck to one side (torticollis) is a frequent aspiration for patients at Dr. Allison's clinic. A dedicated care plan often leads to sleeping more soundly and waking up feeling genuinely refreshed and a return to a more active life.
• Overcoming worried about my child's posture to achieve improved nerve function, leading to less tingling, numbness, or weakness and resume effortlessly tying your own shoelaces or putting on socks without difficulty is a common success story at Dr. Allison's practice. Personalized care makes a real difference.
• Dr. Allison understands how frustrating that annoying crick in my neck can be. By aiming for increased flexibility throughout their spine, allowing for easier movement, chiropractic care can empower you to return to activities like your regular jogging routine with renewed confidence.
• For those whose knee pain going up and down stairs has made your weekly spin class a challenge, Dr. Allison offers a path towards feeling like their body is functioning at its best, without the constant interference of pain. Chiropractic care can be instrumental in helping you rediscover the joy of movement and an active lifestyle.

Your personalized chiropractic care plan, developed with Dr. Baker, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.

Dr. Baker's practice at Aurora Health and Wellness is situated in a reputable chiropractic clinic located in the vibrant Victoria neighborhood of Victoria, BC. The clinic is conveniently positioned near the Inner Harbour Causeway, making it easily accessible for local residents and visitors alike. Patients can reach the clinic via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit), ensuring a smooth and convenient journey. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Do chiropractors provide exercises or stretches?

Yes, exercises and stretches are an integral part of many chiropractic treatment strategies. Your Chiropractor will likely show you specific movements to do at home to help speed up your recovery, maintain your progress, and prevent the problem from returning.

What should I expect during my first chiropractic appointment?

Your first visit typically involves a thorough consultation and examination. Your Chiropractor will discuss your detailed health history, current symptoms, lifestyle, and treatment goals. This is followed by a comprehensive physical examination which may include postural analysis, spinal assessment, range of motion tests, orthopedic tests, and neurological screenings. Based on these findings, your Chiropractor will discuss a diagnosis (or clinical impression) and propose a personalized treatment plan. Often, some form of treatment or advice is provided during this initial session, if appropriate.

What is that 'cracking' or 'popping' sound during an adjustment?

The 'cracking' or 'popping' sound, technically called a cavitation, is thought to be caused by the release of gas (mainly nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide) from the synovial fluid within a joint when it is stretched or moved quickly during an adjustment. It's similar to the sound made when you crack your knuckles. The sound itself is not the goal of the adjustment and is not indicative of whether the treatment was effective; the primary aim is to restore proper joint motion and relieve nerve pressure.

Is chiropractic care covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

BC's MSP provides partial coverage (a set amount per visit) for a limited number of chiropractic visits (currently 10 combined per year for supplementary benefits including chiro, physio, massage, naturopathy, acupuncture) for eligible individuals with lower incomes (e.g., those on Premium Assistance). Most patients will have a co-payment. Patients should verify their MSP eligibility and coverage details directly with MSP and check their private insurance plans for additional benefits.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Chiropractor in BC?

Chiropractors are primary contact healthcare professionals, meaning patients can book an appointment directly without a referral from a medical doctor. However, some private/extended health insurance plans may require a doctor's referral for reimbursement purposes, so it is advisable to check your individual insurance policy.

Aurora Health and Wellness
778 Goldstream Ave
Victoria, BC V9B 2X3

Phone: (604) 869-0555

Dr. Allison Baker is regulated by the Health Professions Act in BC and is a member of the College of Chiropractors of British Columbia (CCBC).

Verify registration with the College of Chiropractors of British Columbia (CCBC): https://find.bcchiro.com/code/find.php?doctor=10592

Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.