Dr. Ferenc Stefani – Chiropractor | Nanaimo, BC

Dr. Ferenc Stefani is a dedicated Chiropractor. Practicing at My Running Dr in Nanaimo, BC, Dr. Stefani is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Chiropractors of British Columbia (CCBC) standards. His approach emphasizes providing comprehensive chiropractic assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of neuromusculoskeletal conditions, focusing on spinal health and overall well-being. Dr. Stefani serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, ensuring personalized care tailored to each individual’s unique health needs and goals.

With a strong foundation in evidence-based chiropractic practices, Dr. Stefani completed his Doctor of Chiropractic degree and has accumulated extensive clinical experience. He is dedicated to ongoing professional development to stay current with the latest advancements in chiropractic care. His clinical expertise allows him to address complex cases and provide effective strategies for pain relief, functional improvement, and long-term health maintenance.

Dr. Stefani’s practice philosophy is rooted in a holistic approach to health, recognizing the vital connection between the spine, nervous system, and overall wellness. He strives to empower his patients with knowledge about their conditions and proactive health strategies. Dr. Stefani offers care in English, ensuring clear communication and understanding throughout the treatment process.

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

General Musculoskeletal & Systemic Conditions

• Scoliosis (Functional & Pain Management): Chiropractic strategies to help alleviate discomfort and improve spinal mechanics in cases of functional scoliosis or pain related to structural scoliosis.
• Bursitis (Various Regions): Alleviating discomfort from inflamed bursae through gentle therapies and advice on activity modification.
• Chronic Pain Syndromes (with Biomechanical Factors): Addressing persistent pain where underlying joint dysfunction, muscle imbalance, nerve irritation, or altered movement patterns are identified as significant contributing factors.
• Tendinitis / Tendinopathy (Various Regions): Management of various tendinopathies throughout the body, such as rotator cuff tendinitis, patellar tendinopathy, or Achilles tendinopathy, using a multifaceted approach.

Head, Neck & Jaw Conditions

• 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.
• Headaches (Cervicogenic, Tension-Type, Migraine Support): Pain in the head, often linked to neck issues (cervicogenic), muscle tension (tension-type), or as a component that chiropractic care can help manage in certain migraine cases by addressing musculoskeletal triggers.
• Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): Specialized care for whiplash injuries, focusing on restoring neck mobility, reducing pain and inflammation, and addressing associated neurological symptoms.

Hip, Leg & Foot Conditions

• IT Band Syndrome: Helping athletes and active individuals overcome lateral knee pain related to a tight or irritated IT band.
• Hip Pain (Osteoarthritis, Bursitis, Tendinopathy): Discomfort in or around the hip joint, often due to wear-and-tear arthritis (osteoarthritis), inflammation of bursae (fluid-filled sacs that cushion the joint), or tendon issues like gluteal tendinopathy.
• Achilles Tendinopathy: Helping you recover from Achilles tendinitis/tendinosis and return to activities like running or jumping without pain.
• Ankle Sprains & Instability: Rehabilitation for acute ankle sprains and management of chronic ankle instability to restore strength, balance, and prevent recurrent injuries.

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

• 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.
• 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.
• Myofascial Release Technique (MRT): Manual therapy to address restrictions in the myofascial system, enhancing movement and comfort.
• Active Release Techniques (ART®): Specialized manual therapy combining precise pressure with active patient movements to resolve soft tissue restrictions.
• Graston Technique® / IASTM: Instrument-Assisted Soft Tissue Mobilization (IASTM) using specially designed stainless steel tools to detect and treat fascial restrictions, scar tissue, and chronic inflammation (practitioner certification dependent).
• Trigger Point Therapy: Application of focused pressure to specific hyperirritable spots (trigger points) within muscles to relieve pain, reduce muscle tension, and restore normal muscle function.

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

• Imagine being able to challenging myself with rock climbing, both indoors and on real rock faces without fibromyalgia pain, fatigue, and body-wide tenderness holding you back. Dr. Ferenc works closely with patients to achieve outcomes such as feeling lasting relief from chronic shoulder discomfort and clicking, often utilizing targeted spinal adjustments and supportive therapies to restore proper function.
• If pinching feeling deep inside my shoulder is impacting your daily life and preventing you from enjoying simply relaxing on the couch with your family or pets without any underlying pain, know that effective chiropractic care can help. Dr. Ferenc focuses on achieving a more positive outlook on their physical capabilities and future health so you can engage in the things you love again.
• Many individuals visit Dr. Ferenc because they are tired of dealing with a tweak in my lower back that won't go away. Through a personalized chiropractic care plan, they often find they can achieve enjoying a noticeable reduction in neck stiffness and related tension and get back to enjoying important activities like motorcycle rides.
• Patients often share how difficulty bending over to pick things up affected their ability to your regular jogging routine. With Dr. Ferenc's help and a focus on walking with ease, free from sharp radiating leg pain, many are now enjoying life with improved function and less discomfort.

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

Dr. Stefani's practice at My Running Dr is situated in the North Nanaimo (Hammond Bay area) neighborhood of Nanaimo. The clinic is conveniently located near Port Theatre and is accessible via the Regional District of Nanaimo Transit System (BC Transit). Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

Do chiropractors only treat back pain?

While chiropractors are very well known for effectively treating back pain, their expertise extends to a wide range of other neuromusculoskeletal conditions affecting the entire body. This includes issues with the neck, shoulders, hips, knees, feet, as well as headaches, and problems related to muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves throughout the extremities.

Does My Running Dr offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, My Running Dr offers direct billing to most major private insurance companies such as Canada Life, Sun Life, Manulife, Green Shield, etc. Patients are advised to bring their insurance card or details and confirm their coverage with their insurer, as plans and coverage amounts vary. Patients are responsible for any co-payments or amounts not covered by their plan.

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

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

In British Columbia, 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 require a doctor's referral for reimbursement. Patients should verify their individual insurance policies for specifics.

What should I expect during my first chiropractic appointment?

Your first visit typically involves a thorough consultation and examination. Dr. Stefani will discuss your health history, current symptoms, lifestyle, and treatment goals. This is followed by a physical assessment, including postural analysis, spinal evaluation, range of motion, orthopedic, and neurological tests. Based on these findings, a diagnosis or clinical impression will be shared, and a personalized treatment plan will be discussed. Some treatment or advice may be provided during this initial visit.

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

In British Columbia, MSP provides limited coverage for chiropractic services, often with a co-payment, for individuals with lower incomes such as those on Premium Assistance. Most other adults do not have MSP coverage for chiropractic care in private clinics. Patients should check their eligibility and private insurance options for coverage.

What does a chiropractor mean by a 'subluxation' or 'joint restriction'?

A subluxation or joint restriction refers to a joint that is 'stuck' or not moving properly. This can cause pain, stiffness, and nerve interference. Chiropractors are trained to identify and correct these dysfunctions through specific adjustments to restore normal joint movement.

My Running Dr
5356 Fillinger Crescent
Nanaimo, BC V9V 1H6

Phone: (604) 255-7777

Dr. Ferenc Stefani 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=11476

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