About
Dr. Andy Chow is a dedicated Chiropractor practicing at The Motion Lab in Richmond, BC. Andy is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the College of Chiropractors of British Columbia (CCBC). His approach emphasizes evidence-based practices, ensuring that each patient receives safe, effective, and personalized treatment. With a focus on natural healing and holistic health, Dr. Chow aims to help individuals achieve better function, reduce pain, and enhance overall well-being through targeted chiropractic interventions.
Dr. Chow’s clinical expertise encompasses a wide range of conditions, with a special interest in managing sports injuries and supporting athletic performance for individuals of all activity levels. He provides supportive care for concussion management, addressing associated musculoskeletal issues and guiding patients through safe return-to-activity protocols. Additionally, Dr. Chow has extensive experience in treating injuries sustained in motor vehicle accidents, including whiplash and related ICBC claims. His practice also emphasizes family wellness, offering care for members of all ages—from infants to seniors—and addressing common postural and ergonomic concerns faced by office workers and those with desk jobs.
Educated as a Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Chow is dedicated to ongoing professional development and integrating the latest evidence-based approaches into his practice. He has developed particular skills in sports injury rehabilitation, concussion management support, and postural correction. Dr. Chow’s philosophy centers on promoting natural, non-invasive healing and optimizing body function. He strives to help the Richmond community attain better health and vitality through a holistic understanding of the connection between the spine, nervous system, and overall wellness. Dr. Chow offers care in English.
Dr. Andy Chow provides skilled chiropractic care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:
Shoulder, Arm & Hand Conditions
- Nerve Entrapments (e.g., Thoracic Outlet, Cubital Tunnel): Chiropractic care to address mechanical nerve compression syndromes such as Thoracic Outlet Syndrome or Cubital Tunnel Syndrome, aiming to relieve pressure and restore nerve function.
- Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) of the Upper Limb: Pain, aching, numbness, or other symptoms in the muscles, nerves, and tendons of the arm, wrist, or hand resulting from repetitive tasks, forceful exertions, or awkward postures.
Head, Neck & Jaw Conditions
- Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): A range of symptoms including neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness following a sudden acceleration-deceleration injury, typically from a car accident.
- Tinnitus (Cervicogenic/Somatosensory): Ringing or other noises in the ear that may be related to issues in the neck (cervical spine) or jaw (TMJ), which chiropractic care can sometimes influence.
Hip, Leg & Foot Conditions
- Achilles Tendinopathy: Management of Achilles tendon pain and dysfunction through targeted therapies to promote healing, improve tendon load tolerance, and address contributing factors.
- Ankle Sprains & Instability: Rehabilitation for acute ankle sprains and management of chronic ankle instability to restore strength, balance, and prevent recurrent injuries.
- Plantar Fasciitis / Heel & Foot Pain: Effective treatment for plantar fasciitis, focusing on reducing inflammation, stretching the plantar fascia and calf muscles, and addressing foot biomechanics.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Dr. Chow can assess your needs.
- Comprehensive Chiropractic Examination: Detailed initial consultation involving a deep dive into your symptoms, lifestyle, and a full physical examination to guide your personalized care plan.
- Radiographic (X-ray) Imaging & Analysis: Diagnostic X-ray evaluation to aid in accurate diagnosis and ensure the safety and appropriateness of care.
- Functional Movement Screening (e.g., FMS™, SFMA™): Specialized assessment of fundamental movement patterns to identify limitations, asymmetries, and potential injury risks, guiding corrective exercise and treatment.
- Postural Assessment & Correction Planning: Detailed analysis of your standing and sitting posture to identify imbalances and provide targeted advice and exercises for correction and pain prevention.
- Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Using targeted electrical stimulation to manage acute or chronic pain.
- Surface Electromyography (sEMG) Scan: Non-invasive scanning technology used to measure electrical activity in muscles, helping to identify areas of abnormal muscle tone or imbalance along the spine (if offered).
Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dr. Chow. 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 The Motion Lab, chiropractic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Dr. Chow frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- Experience the significant benefit of relying less on pain medication and more on their body's natural healing if you're dealing with feeling unsteady on your feet, like I might fall. Dr. Andy helps patients regain their ability to fully participate in activities like your yoga and Pilates practice through focused and gentle chiropractic treatments.
- For those whose waddling feeling and hip pain during pregnancy has made advancing in your martial arts training and sparring sessions a challenge, Dr. Andy offers a path towards improved core stability, leading to better support for their spine and reduced strain. Chiropractic care can be instrumental in helping you rediscover the joy of movement and an active lifestyle.
- Dr. Andy understands how frustrating feeling unbalanced and like one side is higher can be. By aiming for being able to sit for longer periods comfortably, whether for work or leisure, chiropractic care can empower you to return to activities like participating fully in your weekly adult soccer league game with renewed confidence.
- Many individuals visit Dr. Andy because they are tired of dealing with sciatica flare-ups making walking hard. Through a personalized chiropractic care plan, they often find they can achieve feeling more comfortable and supported throughout pregnancy and get back to enjoying important activities like enthusiastically traveling and exploring new cities and countries on foot.
Your personalized chiropractic care plan, developed with Dr. Chow, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Dr. Chow's practice at The Motion Lab is situated in the heart of Central Richmond (City Centre North), conveniently close to Richmond City Hall. The clinic is easily accessible via TransLink, including the SkyTrain Canada Line and bus routes, making it straightforward for patients to visit from various parts of the city. Our location is designed to be welcoming and accessible, with wheelchair access and nearby parking options. Street parking and paid lots in the vicinity offer convenient options for visitors, ensuring a hassle-free experience for all patients.
- What is that 'cracking' or 'popping' sound during an adjustment?
- That sound is a common and usually harmless phenomenon called joint cavitation. When a joint is gapped during an adjustment, the pressure inside the joint decreases, allowing dissolved gases in the joint fluid to form a bubble, which then quickly collapses, creating the 'pop'. It doesn't mean bones are cracking, and many effective adjustments occur without any sound at all.
- Is chiropractic care covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- In British Columbia, the Medical Services Plan (MSP) provides partial coverage for chiropractic services through the Supplementary Benefits. Typically, eligible individuals, such as those on Premium Assistance or with certain low-income status, may receive coverage for a limited number of visits per year, often with a co-payment. For most residents, MSP does not cover chiropractic care in private clinics, and patients are advised to check their individual coverage and private insurance plans for additional benefits.
- What is chiropractic care and how can it help me?
- Chiropractic is a healthcare profession focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing disorders of the neuromusculoskeletal system, primarily the spine, and their effects on overall health. Chiropractors use hands-on spinal manipulation (adjustments) and other manual therapies, as well as exercise, and lifestyle counseling, to relieve pain, restore function, and support your body's natural ability to heal. It can help with issues like back pain, neck pain, headaches, and joint problems in your arms or legs.
- Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Chiropractor in BC?
- No, in British Columbia, chiropractors are primary contact healthcare professionals. Patients can book an appointment directly without a referral. However, some private health insurance plans may require a doctor's referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check your individual insurance policy for specific requirements.
- Is there parking available at or near The Motion Lab?
- Yes, there is free patient parking available directly in front of or behind our building. Alternatively, metered street parking is available on nearby streets, and paid parking options are accessible in the nearby parkade. Limited free street parking may also be found in the vicinity.
- 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 issues—chiropractic care may be very beneficial. Scheduling an initial consultation allows Dr. Chow to perform a thorough assessment, discuss your health goals, and determine if chiropractic treatment is appropriate or if another approach would be more suitable.
- What should I expect during my first chiropractic appointment?
- Your first visit typically involves a comprehensive consultation where Dr. Chow will review your health history, current symptoms, and treatment goals. This is followed by a physical examination, including postural analysis, spinal assessment, range of motion tests, orthopedic tests, and neurological screenings. Based on the findings, Dr. Chow will discuss a diagnosis or clinical impression and propose a personalized treatment plan. Some initial treatment or advice may be provided during this visit if appropriate.
The Motion Lab
5951 No. 3 road, Suite 800
Richmond, BC V6X2E3
Phone: (250) 590-2852
Dr. Andy Chow 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=10566
Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.