About
Dr. Allison N. McFarlane is a dedicated Chiropractor practicing at Back to Function in Orillia, ON. She is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the College of Chiropractors of Ontario (CCO). With a focus on enhancing spinal health and overall well-being, Dr. McFarlane offers comprehensive chiropractic assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of neuromusculoskeletal conditions. Her approach emphasizes individualized care, addressing each patient's unique health concerns and goals. She serves a diverse patient population, including infants, children, adults, and seniors, ensuring accessible and effective chiropractic care for all ages.
Her professional journey is marked by a strong educational foundation and ongoing commitment to evidence-based practices. Dr. McFarlane completed her Doctor of Chiropractic degree from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, where she gained extensive clinical experience. She continuously updates her skills and knowledge through professional development to ensure her patients receive the latest and most effective treatments available. Her dedication to excellence is evident in her personalized treatment plans and her compassionate patient care approach.
Beyond her clinical expertise, Dr. McFarlane believes in empowering her patients through education and proactive health strategies. She strives to foster a supportive environment where patients feel comfortable discussing their concerns and are actively involved in their health journey. She offers care in English and is passionate about helping the Orillia community achieve better health, vitality, and quality of life through chiropractic care.
Dr. Allison N. McFarlane provides skilled chiropractic care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:
Shoulder, Arm & Hand Conditions
- Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) of the Upper Limb: Management of RSIs affecting the upper extremities by addressing tissue irritation, improving biomechanics, and providing ergonomic recommendations.
- Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): A condition characterized by significant stiffness, pain, and progressive loss of range of motion in the shoulder joint, making everyday tasks difficult.
Hip, Leg & Foot Conditions
- Knee Pain (Osteoarthritis, Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - Conservative): Aching, sharp pain, or instability in the knee, commonly resulting from cartilage degeneration (osteoarthritis), issues with how the kneecap tracks (patellofemoral pain syndrome), or certain types of meniscal (cartilage) injuries suitable for conservative care.
- Piriformis Syndrome / Deep Gluteal Pain: Addressing buttock and leg pain that may be related to muscular tightness deep in the gluteal region.
- Ankle Sprains & Instability: Pain, swelling, and potential ongoing weakness or giving way in the ankle due to stretching or tearing of ankle ligaments, often from a twist or roll.
Head, Neck & Jaw Conditions
- Dizziness & Vertigo (Cervicogenic & BPPV Management): Helping you find relief from certain types of dizziness and vertigo by addressing underlying musculoskeletal or vestibular (inner ear) causes.
- Cervical Radiculopathy (Pinched Nerve in Neck): Relief for 'pinched nerve' symptoms in the arm through chiropractic care aimed at decompressing the affected nerve root in the neck and restoring function.
- Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Rehabilitation programs for individuals suffering from WAD, aiming to facilitate recovery and prevent long-term complications.
- TMJ / Jaw Pain (Temporomandibular Disorders - TMD): Management of temporomandibular joint dysfunction through gentle manual therapies, exercises, and advice to reduce jaw pain and improve its function.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Dr. McFarlane can assess your needs.
- Thompson Drop-Table Technique: A gentle adjusting method using a specialized table with sections that drop slightly, allowing for precise adjustments with minimal force.
- Diversified Technique: A widely used manual adjusting technique involving specific high-velocity, low-amplitude thrusts to restore proper movement and alignment to spinal and extremity joints.
- Activator Methods® Technique: A gentle, low-force instrument-assisted adjusting technique using the Activator Adjusting Instrument to deliver precise and controlled impulses to specific joints or tissues (practitioner certification dependent).
- Gonstead Technique: A highly specific and detailed approach to spinal analysis and adjustment.
- Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT®): A gentle technique focusing on the relationship between the sacrum (base of the spine) and occiput (base of the skull), often using pelvic blocks and cranial work to restore nervous system function (practitioner certification dependent).
- Flexion-Distraction Therapy (e.g., Cox® Technic): Spinal decompression and mobilization performed on a specialized table to relieve pressure on discs and nerves.
Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dr. McFarlane. 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 Ontario (CCO).
At Back to Function, chiropractic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Dr. McFarlane frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- Imagine being able to CrossFit workouts without carpal tunnel symptoms flaring up holding you back. Dr. Allison works closely with patients to achieve outcomes such as feeling more comfortable and supported throughout pregnancy, often utilizing targeted spinal adjustments and supportive therapies to restore proper function.
- Dr. Allison understands how frustrating tendonitis pain in my [shoulder/elbow/knee/achilles] can be. By aiming for getting back to work feeling more comfortable and productive, chiropractic care can empower you to return to activities like playing your guitar/piano/drums/violin for extended practice sessions with renewed confidence.
- For those whose pain when twisting my back to reach for something has made effectively performing all your physically demanding job duties with renewed vigor a challenge, Dr. Allison offers a path towards feeling empowered with the knowledge and tools to maintain their spinal health. Chiropractic care can be instrumental in helping you rediscover the joy of movement and an active lifestyle.
- Overcoming sore hips, especially when lying on my side at night to achieve a better understanding of their condition and effective self-care strategies and resume shooting hoops and playing pickup basketball at the local outdoor court is a common success story at Dr. Allison's practice. Personalized care makes a real difference.
Your personalized chiropractic care plan, developed with Dr. McFarlane, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Back to Function is situated in the heart of the central Orillia neighborhood, making it an accessible choice for residents seeking quality chiropractic care. The clinic’s convenient location ensures easy access from various parts of the city, with proximity to local community services and pharmacies. Patients can reach the clinic via multiple local public transit routes, simplifying their journey to health. The clinic is fully wheelchair accessible, and street parking along with nearby paid parking lots offer flexible options for visitors seeking to prioritize their health without hassle.
- Do Chiropractors work with other healthcare professionals?
- Yes, chiropractors often believe in a collaborative approach to healthcare. They frequently work with and refer to other healthcare professionals such as family physicians, physiotherapists, massage therapists, naturopathic doctors, and specialists when it is in the best interest of their patients to ensure comprehensive and optimal care.
- What are the typical phases of chiropractic care?
- Generally, your care might involve an initial phase to provide relief from your acute symptoms. This is often followed by a rehabilitative phase to correct the underlying causes, improve function, and strengthen the affected areas. Finally, many patients opt for wellness or maintenance care, which involves periodic check-ups to help maintain their progress and prevent future problems, though this is always your choice.
- Is chiropractic care covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- Ontario's OHIP generally does not cover chiropractic services in private clinics for most of the population. There may be very limited exceptions through specific government programs or if care is delivered within a Community Health Centre or Family Health Team with integrated chiropractic services, but such cases are rare. It is advisable to check your private insurance coverage for chiropractic services.
- Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Chiropractor in ON?
- Chiropractors are primary contact healthcare professionals in Ontario, meaning you can book an appointment directly without a referral. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may still require a doctor's referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to check your insurance policy for specific requirements.
- How can I tell if chiropractic care is right for me?
- If you are experiencing pain, stiffness, or dysfunction related to your spine, muscles, joints, or nerves—such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, or extremity joint problems—chiropractic care may be beneficial. Scheduling an initial consultation allows Dr. McFarlane to perform a thorough assessment and discuss your health goals to determine if chiropractic treatment is appropriate.
- What kind of clothing should I wear to my chiropractic appointment?
- We recommend wearing comfortable clothing such as gym attire or loose-fitting pants and a top. This facilitates the physical examination and any active components of your treatment.
Back to Function
26 Colbourne St. East
Orillia, ON L3V 1T3
Phone: (705) 326-9977
Dr. Allison N. McFarlane is regulated by the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 and the Chiropractic Act, 1991 in ON and is a member of the College of Chiropractors of Ontario (CCO).
Verify registration with the College of Chiropractors of Ontario (CCO): https://cco.ca.thentiacloud.net/webs/cco/register/?t=1#/registrant/all/all/all/all/all/all/5960/10/59e630135e6717134c2c6b75
Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.