About
Dr. Gerald Houlgrave is a dedicated Chiropractor practicing at Dr. Richard Houlgrave Inc. in Comox, BC. Gerald 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 practice emphasizes a thorough understanding of neuromusculoskeletal health, providing comprehensive chiropractic assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of conditions. Dr. Houlgrave’s approach is rooted in evidence-based practices, ensuring that each patient receives personalized care tailored to their specific needs. He serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, fostering a holistic approach to health and wellness.
Dr. Gerald Houlgrave completed his Doctor of Chiropractic degree through a rigorous academic program that combines foundational sciences, clinical sciences, and chiropractic-specific training. His extensive education includes coursework in anatomy, physiology, pathology, neurology, biomechanics, diagnostic imaging, orthopedics, and differential diagnosis. Alongside his academic training, Dr. Houlgrave has accumulated valuable clinical experience through supervised internships, enhancing his ability to diagnose accurately and develop effective treatment plans. He remains dedicated to ongoing professional development, staying current with the latest evidence-based practices to provide the best possible care for his patients.
Dr. Gerald Houlgrave’s practice philosophy centers on a holistic view of health, emphasizing the interconnectedness of the spine, nervous system, and overall well-being. He believes in promoting natural, non-invasive healing methods and empowering patients with knowledge about their health. Through patient education and proactive strategies, Dr. Houlgrave helps individuals achieve long-term health goals. He is fluent in English, Hindi, and Punjabi, allowing him to communicate effectively with a diverse patient population and provide culturally sensitive care.
Dr. Gerald Houlgrave provides skilled chiropractic care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:
Hip, Leg & Foot Conditions
- Ankle Sprains & Instability: Rehabilitation for acute ankle sprains and management of chronic ankle instability to restore strength, balance, and prevent recurrent injuries.
- 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.
- Achilles Tendinopathy: Helping you recover from Achilles tendinitis/tendinosis and return to activities like running or jumping without pain.
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): Addressing the underlying causes of elbow tendon pain through manual therapy, exercise, and activity modification advice.
- Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) of the Upper Limb: Management of RSIs affecting the upper extremities by addressing tissue irritation, improving biomechanics, and providing ergonomic recommendations.
- Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): A rehabilitative approach to gradually restore shoulder mobility and alleviate the discomfort of adhesive capsulitis.
General Musculoskeletal & Systemic Conditions
- Tendinitis / Tendinopathy (Various Regions): Addressing tendon pain and dysfunction to help you return to your daily activities and sports without discomfort.
- Fibromyalgia (Pain & Stiffness Management): Gentle techniques and supportive therapies aimed at reducing pain sensitivity and improving overall comfort for individuals with fibromyalgia.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Dr. Houlgrave can assess your needs.
- Diversified Technique: Classic chiropractic adjustments characterized by precise, gentle thrusts to correct joint dysfunction.
- Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT®): Utilizing pelvic blocking and specific cranial-sacral procedures to balance spinal and pelvic structures.
- Gonstead Technique: A specific system of analysis (including X-ray review, instrumentation) and full-spine manual adjustments designed for precision and thoroughness (practitioner specialization).
- Activator Methods® Technique: Precise and gentle corrections delivered with a handheld adjusting instrument.
- Thompson Drop-Table Technique: Low-force adjustments facilitated by a segmented 'drop piece' table to enhance joint mobilization.
- Flexion-Distraction Therapy (e.g., Cox® Technic): Spinal decompression and mobilization performed on a specialized table to relieve pressure on discs and nerves.
Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dr. Houlgrave. 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 Dr. Richard Houlgrave Inc., chiropractic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Dr. Houlgrave frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- Imagine being able to teaching your fitness classes without repetitive strain injury in my arm/wrist holding you back. Dr. Gerald works closely with patients to achieve outcomes such as a greater sense of control over their symptoms and physical well-being, often utilizing targeted spinal adjustments and supportive therapies to restore proper function.
- For those whose carpal tunnel symptoms flaring up has made keeping up with your grandkids a challenge, Dr. Gerald offers a path towards waking up feeling more rested and with less morning stiffness. Chiropractic care can be instrumental in helping you rediscover the joy of movement and an active lifestyle.
- Getting back to your regular exercise routine at home after struggling with constant dull headaches making focusing hard is a frequent aspiration for patients at Dr. Gerald's clinic. A dedicated care plan often leads to sleeping more soundly and waking up feeling genuinely refreshed and a return to a more active life.
- Experience the significant benefit of improved core stability, leading to better support for their spine and reduced strain if you're dealing with my knee feeling unstable or giving way. Dr. Gerald helps patients regain their ability to fully participate in activities like enjoying your brisk morning walks with the dog, no matter the weather through focused and gentle chiropractic treatments.
Your personalized chiropractic care plan, developed with Dr. Houlgrave, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Dr. Houlgrave's practice at Dr. Richard Houlgrave Inc. is situated in the central Comox neighborhood of Comox, BC. The clinic is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easily accessible for patients. It is well-connected via local public transit routes, allowing for straightforward access from various parts of the community. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.
- 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. This allows for immediate access to chiropractic care. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may still require a doctor's referral for reimbursement purposes, so patients should check the specifics of their individual insurance policy.
- How long do chiropractic appointments usually last?
- The first visit to a Chiropractor involves a detailed history and examination and can take around an hour. Follow-up appointments where adjustments and other therapies are performed are typically 15-20 minutes. The exact duration will depend on your personalized treatment plan.
- What does a chiropractor mean by a 'subluxation' or 'joint restriction'?
- When a Chiropractor refers to a subluxation or joint restriction, they are typically describing a joint that isn't moving properly or is misaligned in a way that can affect nerve function and lead to discomfort or other health issues. Chiropractic adjustments aim to address these specific joint problems.
- What is chiropractic care and how can it help me?
- Essentially, chiropractic care helps your body move and function better. Your Chiropractor will assess your spine and other joints for restrictions or misalignments that might be causing pain or affecting your nervous system. Through precise adjustments and other treatments, they aim to improve your mobility, reduce pain, and enhance your overall well-being, allowing you to get back to your daily activities.
- Is chiropractic care covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- In BC, MSP provides partial coverage for chiropractic services, typically a set amount per visit, for a limited number of visits (currently 10 combined per year for services including chiropractic, physiotherapy, massage, naturopathy, and acupuncture) for eligible individuals, such as those on Premium Assistance. Most patients will have a co-payment. It is advisable to verify your MSP eligibility and coverage details directly with MSP and check your private insurance plans for additional coverage.
- What kind of education and training do chiropractors in Canada receive?
- Chiropractors in Canada complete a rigorous post-secondary Doctor of Chiropractic (DC) degree, which generally requires a minimum of three years of undergraduate university education followed by four years of intensive study at an accredited chiropractic college. Their curriculum covers comprehensive training in basic sciences like anatomy, physiology, pathology, neurology, biomechanics; clinical sciences including diagnostic imaging, orthopedics, differential diagnosis; and chiropractic-specific subjects such as adjusting techniques and rehabilitation. Graduates must pass demanding national and provincial board examinations to become licensed practitioners.
Dr. Richard Houlgrave Inc.
#202 - 1819 Beaufort Avenue
Comox, BC V9M 1R9
Phone: (604) 385-2020
Dr. Gerald Houlgrave 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=10533
Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.