Dr. Clayton Ward

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

Hip, Leg & Foot Conditions

• Plantar Fasciitis / Heel & Foot Pain: Relief from persistent heel pain and arch discomfort through a combination of manual therapies, exercises, and potentially orthotic advice.
• 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: 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.
• Hip Pain (Osteoarthritis, Bursitis, Tendinopathy): Chiropractic care focusing on improving hip joint mechanics, strengthening supporting muscles, and alleviating pain from conditions like osteoarthritis or trochanteric bursitis.

Specific Populations & Injury Types

• Motor Vehicle Accident Injuries (e.g., Whiplash, Back Strain): Musculoskeletal trauma resulting from car accidents, commonly involving whiplash-associated disorders (neck pain, stiffness, headaches), back strains, soft tissue damage, and joint sprains.
• Pediatric Musculoskeletal Conditions (e.g., Growing Pains, Postural Concerns): Supporting healthy growth and addressing common childhood musculoskeletal complaints through safe and modified chiropractic approaches.
• Geriatric Care (Mobility, Stiffness, Fall Prevention): Supporting active aging by addressing the specific musculoskeletal needs of seniors, enhancing their comfort and independence.
• Postpartum Musculoskeletal Issues: Helping new mothers recover optimal musculoskeletal function and comfort in the postpartum period.

Shoulder, Arm & Hand Conditions

• Nerve Entrapments (e.g., Thoracic Outlet, Cubital Tunnel): Identifying and treating sources of nerve irritation in the upper limb to alleviate radiating symptoms and improve sensation.
• Tennis Elbow / Golfer's Elbow (Epicondylitis): Pain and tenderness around the elbow joint due to overuse and inflammation of tendons, typically on the outer (tennis elbow) or inner (golfer's elbow) side of the elbow.
• Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): Gentle mobilization and specific exercises to help improve movement and reduce pain for those suffering from a frozen shoulder.

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

• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Tailored rehabilitative exercises to address specific weaknesses, imbalances, or mobility restrictions.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Guided instruction on specific stretches and flexibility exercises to improve your range of motion, reduce muscle tightness, and enhance overall movement quality.
• 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).
• Webster Technique (for Pregnancy): A specific chiropractic analysis and diversified adjustment for pregnant individuals, aimed at reducing sacral subluxation and optimizing pelvic biomechanics to support a more comfortable pregnancy and birth (practitioner certification dependent).
• Core Stability & Strengthening Programs: Exercises focused on strengthening the deep muscles of your abdomen, back, and pelvis to provide better spinal support, improve posture, and reduce injury risk.
• PNF Stretching (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation): Partner-assisted or self-administered PNF techniques to enhance muscle length and joint mobility.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dr. Ward. 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 Dynamic Spine, Sport & Wellness, chiropractic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Dr. Ward frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Getting back to stand-up paddleboarding after struggling with parts of my hand/foot falling asleep is a frequent aspiration for patients at Dr. Clayton's clinic. A dedicated care plan often leads to feeling empowered with the knowledge and tools to maintain their spinal health and a return to a more active life.
• Imagine being able to crushing your CrossFit WODs (Workout of the Day) again without shoulder pain when reaching up high holding you back. Dr. Clayton works closely with patients to achieve outcomes such as experiencing a smoother and more comfortable postpartum recovery, often utilizing targeted spinal adjustments and supportive therapies to restore proper function.
• If groin pain related to my hip movement is impacting your daily life and preventing you from enjoying taking the stairs instead of the elevator, know that effective chiropractic care can help. Dr. Clayton focuses on achieving feeling less pain sensitivity in previously tender areas so you can engage in the things you love again.
• Many individuals visit Dr. Clayton because they are tired of dealing with pain in my buttock and sometimes my leg. Through a personalized chiropractic care plan, they often find they can achieve experiencing significant relief from nagging lower back pain and get back to enjoying important activities like seriously training for a half-marathon/marathon, hitting your mileage goals.

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

Dr. Ward's practice at Dynamic Spine, Sport & Wellness is situated in the heart of Courtenay, within the vibrant Comox, Cumberland, and Rural Comox Valley neighborhoods. The clinic is conveniently located near Costco, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. Patients can reach the clinic via the Comox Valley Transit System (BC Transit), which provides reliable public transportation options. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Do Chiropractors work with other healthcare professionals?

Yes, Chiropractors often believe in a collaborative approach to healthcare. We 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 our patients to ensure comprehensive and optimal care.

How long do chiropractic appointments usually last?

Your initial chiropractic consultation and examination is typically the longest visit, generally lasting between 45 to 60 minutes to allow for a thorough assessment. Subsequent treatment appointments are usually shorter, often ranging from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the specific treatments being provided and your individual needs for that day.

Is it safe to see a chiropractor if I'm pregnant?

Chiropractic care during pregnancy is generally considered safe and can be very effective for managing common musculoskeletal complaints such as back pain, pelvic girdle pain, and sciatica that often arise due to hormonal changes and shifting biomechanics. Chiropractors are trained to work with pregnant women and use modified adjustment techniques and specialized tables or pillows to ensure the comfort and safety of both mother and baby. Some chiropractors, like Dr. Ward, are also certified in the Webster Technique, a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment for pregnant women.

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

In British Columbia, MSP provides partial coverage for chiropractic services for eligible individuals with lower incomes, such as those on Premium Assistance. The coverage typically includes a set number of visits per year, with most patients responsible for a co-payment. It is important to verify your eligibility and coverage details directly with MSP. For other provinces, coverage varies, and patients should consult their provincial health plans and private insurance providers.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my chiropractic appointment?

It is best to wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing that allows for ease of movement. Athletic wear, leggings, comfortable pants, and a t-shirt are generally good choices. This allows your Chiropractor to easily assess your posture and movement, and perform any necessary examinations or treatments. You may be asked to change into a gown for certain parts of the examination if needed.

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 still require a doctor's referral for reimbursement purposes. Patients are advised to check the specifics of their individual insurance policy.

Dynamic Spine, Sport & Wellness
#102- 1532 Cliffe Avenue
Courtenay, BC V9N 2K4

Phone: (604) 858-9467

Dr. Clayton Ward 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=10392

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