About
Dr. Marina Uzelac is a dedicated Chiropractor. Practicing at Wholistic Chiropractic & Wellness in Victoria, BC, Marina is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Chiropractors of British Columbia (CCBC) standards. She specializes in providing comprehensive chiropractic assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of neuromusculoskeletal conditions, focusing on spinal health and overall well-being. Dr. Uzelac's approach emphasizes personalized care that considers each patient's unique health goals, ensuring effective and safe treatment plans. She serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, supporting their journey toward improved mobility, pain relief, and optimal health.
With a strong foundation in evidence-based chiropractic practices, Dr. Marina Uzelac completed her Doctor of Chiropractic degree and brings clinical experience that enhances her ability to address complex cases. She is dedicated to ongoing professional development, staying current with the latest techniques and research in chiropractic care. Her practice philosophy revolves around promoting natural healing, restoring proper joint function, and empowering patients to take an active role in their health.
Dr. Uzelac offers care in English and is passionate about fostering a welcoming environment where patients feel heard and supported. Her commitment to excellence ensures that each individual receives tailored treatment aimed at achieving lasting health improvements and a better quality of life.
Dr. Marina Uzelac provides skilled chiropractic care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:
Specific Populations & Injury Types
- Motor Vehicle Accident Injuries (e.g., Whiplash, Back Strain): Helping you recover from the physical impact of a car accident with a tailored chiropractic care plan.
- 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.
- Postpartum Musculoskeletal Issues: Rehabilitation focused on restoring pelvic and spinal alignment, core strength, and addressing pain after delivery.
Hip, Leg & Foot Conditions
- Hip Pain (Osteoarthritis, Bursitis, Tendinopathy): Addressing common causes of hip pain, including joint degeneration, bursitis, or tendon irritation, to improve mobility and reduce discomfort.
- Achilles Tendinopathy: Helping you recover from Achilles tendinitis/tendinosis and return to activities like running or jumping without pain.
- 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.
Head, Neck & Jaw Conditions
- Whiplash Associated Disorders (WAD): A range of symptoms including neck pain, stiffness, headaches, and dizziness following a sudden acceleration-deceleration injury, typically from a car accident.
- Neck Pain (Acute & Chronic): Targeted care for various types of neck pain, whether from a recent injury or a long-standing issue, aiming to restore mobility and reduce discomfort.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Dr. Uzelac can assess your needs.
- Gonstead Technique: A highly specific and detailed approach to spinal analysis and adjustment.
- Diversified Technique: Classic chiropractic adjustments characterized by precise, gentle thrusts to correct joint dysfunction.
- Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT®): A specialized method aimed at optimizing cerebrospinal fluid flow and neurological integrity through craniosacral adjustments.
- Thompson Drop-Table Technique: A gentle adjusting method using a specialized table with sections that drop slightly, allowing for precise adjustments with minimal force.
- Flexion-Distraction Therapy (e.g., Cox® Technic): A traction-based chiropractic technique aimed at increasing spinal motion and resolving disc bulges or herniations.
- Activator Methods® Technique: Instrument-based adjustments for a specific and gentle approach to joint care.
Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dr. Uzelac. 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 Wholistic Chiropractic & Wellness, chiropractic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Dr. Uzelac frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- Many individuals visit Dr. Marina because they are tired of dealing with a stiff and sore neck. Through a personalized chiropractic care plan, they often find they can achieve maintaining their independence and an active lifestyle as they age and get back to enjoying important activities like managing all your household chores like vacuuming, mopping, and laundry pain-free.
- Patients often share how slouching causing that upper back pain affected their ability to keeping up with your grandkids. With Dr. Marina's help and a focus on enjoying less jaw pain and more comfortable chewing, many are now enjoying life with improved function and less discomfort.
- Getting back to performing all basic daily movements naturally, without constantly thinking about potential pain after struggling with problems with a disc in my back/neck is a frequent aspiration for patients at Dr. Marina's clinic. A dedicated care plan often leads to a more positive outlook on their physical capabilities and future health and a return to a more active life.
- Dr. Marina understands how frustrating neck pain and stiffness after the accident can be. By aiming for feeling stronger, more stable, and more resilient in their body, chiropractic care can empower you to return to activities like sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema with renewed confidence.
Your personalized chiropractic care plan, developed with Dr. Uzelac, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Dr. Uzelac's practice at Wholistic Chiropractic & Wellness is situated in the Fairfield East, Oaklands neighborhood of Victoria. The clinic is conveniently located near the BC Transit Hub, making it easily accessible via the Victoria Regional Transit System (BC Transit). Whether you're coming from nearby neighborhoods or farther afield, the location offers a welcoming environment for your healthcare needs. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.
- Is chiropractic care covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?
- In British Columbia, the Medical Services Plan (MSP) provides partial coverage for chiropractic services for eligible individuals, such as those on Premium Assistance or with low income, typically covering a set amount per visit up to a maximum number of visits annually. Most other adults will have a co-payment for each visit, and coverage is limited. It is important to verify your specific eligibility and coverage details directly with MSP as policies may change. Private extended health insurance plans often provide additional coverage, so patients are encouraged to check their individual plans.
- Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Chiropractor in BC?
- No. 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 purposes. Patients should check with their insurance provider for specific requirements.
- What does a chiropractor mean by a 'subluxation' or 'joint restriction'?
- In chiropractic, a 'vertebral subluxation' or 'joint restriction' (also sometimes called a joint dysfunction) refers to a spinal or extremity joint that has lost its normal position or motion. This can irritate surrounding nerves, muscles, and other tissues, potentially leading to pain, inflammation, reduced mobility, or other symptoms. The goal of a chiropractic adjustment is to correct these restrictions and restore proper joint function.
- Do chiropractors provide exercises or stretches?
- Definitely. While adjustments are a core part of chiropractic care, most Chiropractors also incorporate rehabilitative exercise and stretching into their treatment plans. These are designed to support the effects of your adjustments, correct muscle imbalances, and empower you to manage your condition effectively.
- 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 use modified adjustment techniques and specialized tables or pillows to ensure the comfort and safety of both mother and baby. Some chiropractors, like Dr. Uzelac, are also certified in the Webster Technique, a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment for pregnant women.
- What kind of clothing should I wear to my chiropractic appointment?
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothes are ideal for a chiropractic visit. Think of what you might wear for light exercise. This ensures you can move freely during assessments and that your Chiropractor can access the areas requiring treatment without difficulty.
Wholistic Chiropractic & Wellness
#107/108-2250 Oak Bay Avenue
Victoria, BC V8R 1G5
Phone: (604) 522-5225
Dr. Marina Uzelac 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=10425
Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.
