Dr. Michael Breen – Chiropractor | Calgary, AB

Dr. Michael Breen is a dedicated Chiropractor practicing at Chiropractic Family Care Centre in Calgary, AB. Michael is committed to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the College of Chiropractors of Alberta (CCOA). His approach emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of neuromusculoskeletal health, providing assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of conditions, with a focus on spinal health and overall well-being. Dr. Breen’s practice is designed to serve patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, ensuring tailored care that addresses each individual’s unique health needs and goals.

With a strong foundation in evidence-based chiropractic principles, Dr. Breen continually updates his clinical skills through ongoing professional development. His experience encompasses a variety of techniques and therapies aimed at restoring function, alleviating pain, and promoting natural healing. Whether addressing acute injuries or chronic conditions, Dr. Breen strives to empower his patients by providing education and practical strategies for maintaining optimal health long-term.

Dr. Michael Breen offers care in English and believes in fostering a collaborative, respectful environment where patients feel informed and supported throughout their healthcare journey. His philosophy centers on promoting natural, non-invasive healing and helping patients achieve their personal health and wellness goals through individualized treatment plans.

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

Head, Neck & Jaw Conditions

• Tinnitus (Cervicogenic/Somatosensory): Investigating and addressing potential musculoskeletal contributions from the neck or jaw that may be linked to certain types of tinnitus.
• 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): Relief for pain located in the mid-back or between the shoulder blades, often linked to prolonged sitting, poor posture, or restricted rib movement.
• Spinal Stenosis (Cervical or Lumbar - Symptomatic): Conservative management options for symptomatic spinal stenosis, aiming to reduce nerve compression and improve mobility and comfort.

Shoulder, Arm & Hand Conditions

• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) of the Upper Limb: Pain, aching, numbness, or other symptoms in the muscles, nerves, and tendons of the arm, wrist, or hand resulting from repetitive tasks, forceful exertions, or awkward postures.
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Conservative Management): Non-surgical approaches to manage carpal tunnel symptoms, including wrist and nerve mobilization, ergonomic advice, and supportive therapies.
• Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): A rehabilitative approach to gradually restore shoulder mobility and alleviate the discomfort of adhesive capsulitis.

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

• Flexion-Distraction Therapy (e.g., Cox® Technic): A traction-based chiropractic technique aimed at increasing spinal motion and resolving disc bulges or herniations.
• Thompson Drop-Table Technique: Low-force adjustments facilitated by a segmented 'drop piece' table to enhance joint mobilization.
• Activator Methods® Technique: A gentle, low-force instrument-assisted adjusting technique using the Activator Adjusting Instrument to deliver precise and controlled impulses to specific joints or tissues (practitioner certification dependent).
• 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.

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

• Imagine being able to reading a book for hours comfortably without shoulder pain when reaching up high holding you back. Dr. Michael works closely with patients to achieve outcomes such as feeling a significant release of chronic tension and stress held in their body, often utilizing targeted spinal adjustments and supportive therapies to restore proper function.
• For those whose tendonitis pain in my [shoulder/elbow/knee/achilles] has made simply being able to sit on the floor to play with your children/pets a challenge, Dr. Michael offers a path towards effectively managing chronic discomfort to enjoy daily life more fully. Chiropractic care can be instrumental in helping you rediscover the joy of movement and an active lifestyle.
• Dr. Michael frequently helps people find solutions for the limitations imposed by feeling like my neck muscles are rocks. The common goal is a noticeable boost in overall energy levels and vitality, enabling a confident return to valued life activities, for instance, safely lifting and carrying heavy items at work or around the house, with greater comfort and ease.
• Dr. Michael understands how frustrating coccyx pain after a fall can be. By aiming for a noticeable reduction in daily aches, allowing for more comfortable days, chiropractic care can empower you to return to activities like teaching your fitness classes with renewed confidence.

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

Dr. Breen's practice at Chiropractic Family Care Centre is situated in the southwest area of Calgary, specifically in the Mission, Erlton, Rideau Park neighborhood. The clinic is conveniently located near the Peter Lougheed Centre and is easily accessible via Calgary Transit, including CTrain LRT, bus, and BRT services. The location is ideal for patients seeking quality chiropractic care in a central, accessible setting. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

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. Breen, 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 AB?

No, in Alberta, 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 still require a doctor’s referral for reimbursement purposes. It is advisable to check the specifics of your individual insurance policy.

What is that 'cracking' or 'popping' sound during an adjustment?

The 'cracking' or 'popping' sound, technically called cavitation, is thought to be caused by the release of gas (mainly nitrogen, oxygen, and carbon dioxide) from the synovial fluid within a joint when it is stretched or moved quickly during an adjustment. It’s similar to the sound made when you crack your knuckles. The sound itself is not the goal of the adjustment and does not indicate treatment effectiveness; the primary goal is to restore proper joint motion and relieve nerve pressure.

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.

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.

Is there parking available at or near Chiropractic Family Care Centre?

Yes, there is free patient parking available directly in front of or behind our building.

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 for seniors aged 65 and over, and for dependents under 18, typically covering a set number of visits or a maximum dollar amount per benefit year. For most other adults, AHCIP generally does not cover chiropractic care in private clinics. It is recommended to verify your specific coverage and consult your private insurance for additional benefits.

Chiropractic Family Care Centre
#1620-1800-4th Street SW
Calgary, AB T2S 2S5

Phone: (403) 299-0170

Dr. Michael Breen is regulated by the Health Professions Act in AB and is a member of the College of Chiropractors of Alberta (CCOA).

License #547.0

Verify registration with the College of Chiropractors of Alberta (CCOA): https://www.theccoa.ca/CCOA/CCOA/PublicRegister/PublicRegisterDisplay.aspx?UserID=4270

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