About
Dr. Donald Smith is a dedicated Chiropractor. Practicing at Dr. Donald F. Smith in Medicine Hat, AB, Donald is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Chiropractors of Alberta (CCOA) standards. He specializes in providing comprehensive chiropractic assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of neuromusculoskeletal conditions, focusing on spinal health and overall well-being. Dr. Smith’s approach is patient-focused, aiming to empower individuals to achieve optimal health through personalized care plans. His practice serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, ensuring each receives tailored treatment that addresses their unique needs.Dr. Smith completed his Doctor of Chiropractic degree and has accumulated extensive clinical experience. He is dedicated to ongoing professional development, regularly updating his skills and knowledge with the latest evidence-based practices in chiropractic care. His commitment to excellence ensures that patients receive safe, effective, and up-to-date treatments that adhere to the highest standards of the profession.Dr. Donald Smith’s practice philosophy emphasizes empowering patients with knowledge about their condition and proactive strategies for long-term health. He adopts a holistic approach, understanding the connection between the spine, nervous system, and overall well-being. Dr. Smith offers care in English and strives to create a welcoming environment where patients feel informed, comfortable, and confident in their path to better health.
Dr. Donald Smith provides skilled chiropractic care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:
Head, Neck & Jaw Conditions
- Neck Pain (Acute & Chronic): Addressing the underlying causes of your neck pain, helping to alleviate muscle tension, improve joint function, and prevent future recurrences.
- Dizziness & Vertigo (Cervicogenic & BPPV Management): Assessment and treatment for dizziness originating from neck dysfunction, and management of BPPV symptoms using specific repositioning techniques where appropriate.
- TMJ / Jaw Pain (Temporomandibular Disorders - TMD): Pain, clicking, locking, or limited movement in the jaw joint and surrounding muscles, often affecting chewing, speaking, and sometimes causing ear pain or headaches.
Back & Spine Conditions
- Mid-Back Pain (Thoracic Spine Pain / Interscapular Pain): Discomfort, aching, or stiffness in the area between the shoulder blades and below the neck, often related to posture, rib joint issues, or muscle strain in the thoracic spine.
- Sciatica & Lumbar Radiculopathy (Radiating Leg Pain): Targeted treatment for conditions causing 'pinched nerve' sensations down the leg, helping to reduce pain and restore normal nerve function.
Hip, Leg & Foot Conditions
- 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: Relief from persistent heel pain and arch discomfort through a combination of manual therapies, exercises, and potentially orthotic advice.
- 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.
- Achilles Tendinopathy: Management of Achilles tendon pain and dysfunction through targeted therapies to promote healing, improve tendon load tolerance, and address contributing factors.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Dr. Smith can assess your needs.
- Active Release Techniques (ART®): ART® for targeted relief of soft tissue injuries and repetitive strain conditions.
- Graston Technique® / IASTM: Targeted therapy with tools like Graston® to address stubborn soft tissue problems.
- 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.
- Myofascial Release Technique (MRT): Manual therapy to address restrictions in the myofascial system, enhancing movement and comfort.
- Cross-Friction Massage: A specific deep transverse massage technique applied across affected tendons or ligaments to break down adhesions, reduce scar tissue, and promote an optimal healing environment.
- Trigger Point Therapy: Releasing tight bands of muscle tissue to alleviate pain and improve movement.
Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dr. Smith. 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 Alberta (CCOA).
At Dr. Donald F. Smith, chiropractic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Dr. Smith frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- Dr. Donald frequently helps people find solutions for the limitations imposed by a persistent knot between my shoulders. The common goal is being able to sit for longer periods comfortably, whether for work or leisure, enabling a confident return to valued life activities, for instance, energetically keeping up with your very active grandkids all day long, with greater comfort and ease.
- Patients often share how pain in the arch of my foot affected their ability to reading a book for hours comfortably. With Dr. Donald's help and a focus on being able to lift everyday objects without the fear of pain or re-injury, many are now enjoying life with improved function and less discomfort.
- Many individuals visit Dr. Donald because they are tired of dealing with constant dull headaches making focusing hard. Through a personalized chiropractic care plan, they often find they can achieve getting back to work feeling more comfortable and productive and get back to enjoying important activities like operating machinery safely and efficiently.
- Overcoming arthritis in my knee making it ache constantly to achieve more efficient and comfortable movement patterns during daily activities and resume crafting and sewing for extended periods is a common success story at Dr. Donald's practice. Personalized care makes a real difference.
Your personalized chiropractic care plan, developed with Dr. Smith, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Dr. Donald F. Smith's practice is situated in the heart of Downtown Medicine Hat, in the SE Hill and River Flats neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near the Cultural Centre, which includes the Library and Theatre, making it easily accessible for community members. Patients can reach the clinic via Medicine Hat Transit, which provides reliable public transportation options. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.
- Is chiropractic care covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- In Alberta, the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) provides limited coverage for chiropractic services primarily for seniors aged 65 and over, as well as for dependents under 18. These benefits typically include a set number of visits or a maximum dollar amount per benefit year, often requiring a co-payment. For most adult patients, AHCIP generally does not cover chiropractic care in private clinics. Patients are advised to verify their current coverage limits with AHCIP and consult their private insurance plans for additional coverage opportunities.
- What is Dr. Donald F. Smith's appointment cancellation policy?
- We understand that life happens! However, to ensure we can accommodate all our patients, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. Appointments missed or cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice may be subject to a cancellation fee. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to make changes.
- What should I expect during my first chiropractic appointment?
- During your initial chiropractic appointment, Dr. Smith will take the time to understand your health concerns through a detailed conversation about your medical history and symptoms. This will be followed by a physical exam focusing on your spine, posture, and movement patterns. After the assessment, Dr. Smith will explain the findings, answer your questions, and outline a personalized treatment plan. You may receive your first adjustment or other therapies during this visit to initiate your care.
- Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Chiropractor in AB?
- No, in Alberta, chiropractors are primary contact healthcare professionals, and patients 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. Patients should check the specifics of their individual insurance policies.
- What are the typical phases of chiropractic care?
- Chiropractic care often progresses through stages. The initial phase focuses on relieving pain and alleviating symptoms (relief care). Once pain is managed, the focus shifts to correcting the underlying cause and restoring proper function (corrective care). Finally, some patients choose to maintain their health with periodic check-ups (maintenance or wellness care), similar to routine dental visits, to ensure ongoing well-being.
- What is chiropractic care and how can it help me?
- A Chiropractor is a spine, muscle, and nervous system expert who provides safe, effective treatment to reduce pain and improve movement without medication or surgery. Techniques include manual adjustments, soft tissue therapies, prescribed exercises, education, and lifestyle advice—all aimed at helping you achieve your health goals and enhance your quality of life.
Dr. Donald F. Smith
Suite 2-202-5th Avenue SE 5th Avenue Plaza
Medicine Hat, AB T1A 2P8
Phone: (403) 527-2200
Dr. Donald Smith is regulated by the Health Professions Act in AB and is a member of the College of Chiropractors of Alberta (CCOA).
License #319.0
Verify registration with the College of Chiropractors of Alberta (CCOA): https://www.theccoa.ca/CCOA/CCOA/PublicRegister/PublicRegisterDisplay.aspx?UserID=4135
Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.