Dr. Denise J.M. Colledge

Dr. Denise J.M. Colledge provides skilled chiropractic care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Shoulder, Arm & Hand Conditions

• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Conservative Management): Non-surgical approaches to manage carpal tunnel symptoms, including wrist and nerve mobilization, ergonomic advice, and supportive therapies.
• Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): Gentle mobilization and specific exercises to help improve movement and reduce pain for those suffering from a frozen shoulder.
• Tennis Elbow / Golfer's Elbow (Epicondylitis): Addressing the underlying causes of elbow tendon pain through manual therapy, exercise, and activity modification advice.
• Shoulder Pain (Rotator Cuff Issues, Impingement, Bursitis): Addressing common causes of shoulder pain such as rotator cuff strains, tendinopathy, subacromial impingement, or inflammation of the bursa.

General Musculoskeletal & Systemic Conditions

• Chronic Pain Syndromes (with Biomechanical Factors): Helping individuals with long-standing pain find relief and improved function by addressing treatable biomechanical components.
• Fibromyalgia (Pain & Stiffness Management): Gentle techniques and supportive therapies aimed at reducing pain sensitivity and improving overall comfort for individuals with fibromyalgia.

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.
• Geriatric Care (Mobility, Stiffness, Fall Prevention): Chiropractic care focused on maintaining quality of life for older adults through pain management and functional improvement.
• Pregnancy-Related Musculoskeletal Pain: Chiropractic care adapted for the unique needs of expectant mothers, focusing on maintaining comfort, optimizing pelvic alignment, and preparing for childbirth.

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

• Comprehensive Chiropractic Examination: Complete neuromusculoskeletal evaluation to identify biomechanical issues, nerve interferences, and areas of dysfunction.
• Functional Movement Screening (e.g., FMS™, SFMA™): Movement pattern analysis to understand how your body functions during common activities and sports.
• Radiographic (X-ray) Imaging & Analysis: On-site or referral for X-rays when clinically indicated to assess spinal structure, identify underlying conditions, or rule out pathology, adhering to diagnostic imaging guidelines.
• 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.
• 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).
• Myofascial Release Technique (MRT): Targeted soft tissue work to alleviate muscle tightness, break down adhesions, and restore fascial integrity.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dr. Colledge. 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 Health for Life, chiropractic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Dr. Colledge frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Imagine being able to running your usual 5k/10k route without my kid's neck being stuck to one side (torticollis) holding you back. Dr. Denise works closely with patients to achieve outcomes such as improved core stability, leading to better support for their spine and reduced strain, often utilizing targeted spinal adjustments and supportive therapies to restore proper function.
• Getting back to playing a full round of golf without stiffness after struggling with neck pain and stiffness after the accident is a frequent aspiration for patients at Dr. Denise's clinic. A dedicated care plan often leads to a significant reduction in the severity and daily impact of TMJ symptoms and a return to a more active life.
• If a slipped disc issue causing agony is impacting your daily life and preventing you from enjoying spending hours gardening and landscaping without pain the next day, know that effective chiropractic care can help. Dr. Denise focuses on achieving feeling lasting relief from chronic shoulder discomfort and clicking so you can engage in the things you love again.
• Dr. Denise frequently helps people find solutions for the limitations imposed by headaches starting from my neck base. The common goal is feeling less pain sensitivity in previously tender areas, enabling a confident return to valued life activities, for instance, working on your car in the garage, with greater comfort and ease.

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

Dr. Colledge practices at Health for Life, located in the heart of the central St. Thomas neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently situated near local community services and pharmacies, making access easy for patients. It is well-connected by local public transit routes, ensuring a straightforward journey for those using public transportation. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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

The audible release sometimes heard during a chiropractic adjustment is simply the sound of gas being released from the joint capsule as it is gently stretched. It's perfectly normal and doesn't hurt. The important thing is the restoration of movement, not the sound.

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

In Ontario, chiropractors are primary contact healthcare professionals, meaning patients can book an appointment directly without a referral from a medical doctor. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may still require a doctor's referral for reimbursement purposes. Patients are encouraged to check the specifics of their individual insurance policy.

Will I need to get X-rays before starting chiropractic care?

X-rays are not routinely required for every patient. Dr. Colledge will conduct a thorough history and physical examination to determine if imaging is necessary. Typically, X-rays are recommended to rule out more serious conditions such as fractures or pathology, assess for significant spinal degeneration or instability, or if the patient’s condition is not improving as expected with conservative care. All imaging adheres to established diagnostic guidelines to minimize radiation exposure.

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. Chiropractors are trained to work with pregnant women and often use modified adjustment techniques, along with specialized tables or pillows, to ensure comfort and safety for both mother and baby. Some chiropractors, like Dr. Colledge, are also certified in the Webster Technique, a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment for pregnant women.

Does Health for Life offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, Health for Life offers direct billing to most major private insurance providers such as Canada Life, Sun Life, Manulife, Green Shield, etc. Patients should bring their insurance card or details and verify their specific coverage with their insurer, as plans and reimbursement levels vary. Patients are responsible for any co-payments or amounts not covered by their plan.

Is chiropractic care covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?

In Ontario, OHIP generally does not cover chiropractic services in private clinics. There may be very limited exceptions through specific government programs or if care is provided within a Community Health Centre or Family Health Team with integrated chiropractic services, but these are rare. Patients should verify their private insurance coverage for chiropractic services. For other provinces, coverage varies: AHCIP in Alberta provides limited coverage for seniors and dependents; MSP in BC offers partial coverage for specific cases; and in Quebec, RAMQ does not cover private chiropractic care. It is recommended that patients check their individual insurance plans and government coverage details.

Health for Life
172 Centre St.
St. Thomas, ON N5R 3A4

Phone: (519) 633-6565

Dr. Denise J.M. Colledge 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/2900/10/595d5ea965a9f0df10fcf25e

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