Dr. Lisa A. Simpson McQuarrie

Dr. Lisa A. Simpson McQuarrie provides skilled chiropractic care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

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.
• 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.
• Fibromyalgia (Pain & Stiffness Management): Helping fibromyalgia patients improve their quality of life by addressing musculoskeletal components of their condition.
• Myofascial Pain Syndrome / Trigger Points: A chronic pain disorder characterized by the development of sensitive points in muscles (trigger points) that can cause deep, aching pain locally or in seemingly unrelated parts of the body (referred pain).

Back & Spine Conditions

• Degenerative Disc Disease (DDD) / Spondylosis: Managing the symptoms of degenerative disc disease and spondylosis to help maintain mobility, reduce pain, and improve quality of life.
• Rib Pain / Intercostal Neuralgia / Costochondritis: Addressing pain around the rib cage, often sharp or related to breathing/movement, potentially due to rib joint dysfunction, intercostal muscle/nerve irritation, or cartilage inflammation (costochondritis).
• Sciatica & Lumbar Radiculopathy (Radiating Leg Pain): Management of sciatic nerve pain and other forms of radiating leg symptoms through chiropractic care aimed at relieving pressure on the affected nerve.

Shoulder, Arm & Hand Conditions

• Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): A condition characterized by significant stiffness, pain, and progressive loss of range of motion in the shoulder joint, making everyday tasks difficult.
• Tennis Elbow / Golfer's Elbow (Epicondylitis): Treatment for lateral or medial epicondylitis, focusing on reducing tendon strain, alleviating pain, and restoring grip strength.
• Shoulder Pain (Rotator Cuff Issues, Impingement, Bursitis): Chiropractic care aimed at improving shoulder mechanics, reducing pain, and restoring function for activities like lifting or reaching.
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Conservative Management): Non-surgical approaches to manage carpal tunnel symptoms, including wrist and nerve mobilization, ergonomic advice, and supportive therapies.

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

• Sports Injury Management & Performance Optimization: Helping athletes of all levels recover from injury and achieve their performance goals.
• Custom Foot Orthotic Assessment & Prescription: Biomechanical assessment of your feet and gait, followed by casting or scanning for custom-made foot orthotics to address foot, ankle, knee, hip, or back pain related to foot mechanics.
• Concussion Management & Rehabilitation: Assessment, management, and rehabilitation protocols for concussion, focusing on musculoskeletal components, cervicogenic dizziness, and a safe return to activity (requires specialized training).
• Kinesiology Taping / Athletic Taping: Taping for pain relief, joint stability, and enhanced proprioception during activity.
• Nutritional & Lifestyle Counselling: Holistic advice to empower you to make positive changes for better health.
• Motor Vehicle Accident (MVA) Rehabilitation: Helping you recover from MVA-related injuries with a tailored treatment plan.

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

• Patients often share how parts of my hand/foot falling asleep affected their ability to your commute to work without neck strain. With Dr. Lisa's help and a focus on feeling more comfortable and supported throughout pregnancy, many are now enjoying life with improved function and less discomfort.
• Overcoming soreness on the inside of my elbow (golfer's elbow) to achieve a noticeable boost in overall energy levels and vitality and resume participating in sailing regattas or leisurely boating activities is a common success story at Dr. Lisa's practice. Personalized care makes a real difference.
• Imagine being able to motorcycle rides without feeling like my neck muscles are rocks holding you back. Dr. Lisa works closely with patients to achieve outcomes such as a better understanding of their body and how to prevent future flare-ups, often utilizing targeted spinal adjustments and supportive therapies to restore proper function.
• For those whose my posture just feeling 'off' and uncomfortable has made binge-watching your favorite TV shows without stiffness a challenge, Dr. Lisa offers a path towards improved ability to perform everyday tasks with greater ease and comfort. Chiropractic care can be instrumental in helping you rediscover the joy of movement and an active lifestyle.

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

Essence Chiropractic is situated in the Waterloo East neighborhood of Waterloo, ON, specifically in the Glenridge and Lincoln Heights area. The clinic is conveniently located near the David Johnston Research + Technology Park, making it accessible for local residents and professionals. Patients can easily reach the clinic via public transit, with options including the Grand River Transit (GRT) bus system and the ION Light Rail. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible, and ample parking is generally available close to the entrance, ensuring a comfortable visit for all patients.

How can I tell if chiropractic care is right for me?

If you are experiencing pain, stiffness, or dysfunction related to your spine, muscles, joints, or nerves—particularly issues like back pain, neck pain, headaches, or extremity joint problems—chiropractic care may be very beneficial. Scheduling an initial consultation allows Dr. Simpson McQuarrie to perform a thorough assessment, discuss your health goals, and determine if chiropractic treatment is appropriate or if another approach might better suit your needs.

Do chiropractors provide exercises or stretches?

Yes, absolutely. Therapeutic exercises, stretches, and postural advice are often a key component of a comprehensive chiropractic care plan. Your Chiropractor may prescribe specific exercises tailored to your condition to help improve strength, flexibility, stability, restore proper movement patterns, and promote long-term recovery and injury prevention.

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 require a referral for reimbursement purposes. Patients should check their individual insurance policies for specific requirements.

What are the typical phases of chiropractic care?

Chiropractic care generally progresses through three phases: 1. **Initial Intensive/Relief Care:** Focuses on reducing immediate pain and inflammation, often with more frequent visits. 2. **Corrective/Rehabilitative Care:** Aims to correct underlying dysfunction, improve strength and flexibility, with decreased visit frequency. 3. **Wellness/Maintenance Care (Optional):** Periodic visits to maintain improvements, prevent recurrences, and support overall health. Your Chiropractor will tailor this plan to your specific needs and goals.

Does Essence Chiropractic offer direct billing to private insurance?

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

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

X-rays are not routinely required for every patient. Dr. Simpson McQuarrie will conduct a thorough history and physical examination to determine if imaging is necessary. Imaging is typically recommended to rule out serious conditions like fractures, pathology, or significant spinal degeneration, especially if the patient’s condition does not improve as expected with conservative care, always following established guidelines to minimize radiation exposure.

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

In Ontario, OHIP generally does not cover chiropractic services in private clinics for most residents. There are limited exceptions, such as care delivered within certain community health programs or clinics with integrated chiropractic services, but these are rare. Patients are advised to check their private insurance for coverage options and benefits.

Essence Chiropractic
202 -60 Bridgeport Rd. E.
Waterloo, ON N2J 2J9

Phone: (519) 742-5440

Dr. Lisa A. Simpson McQuarrie 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/2260/10/595d5ea965a9f0df10fceee6

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