Dr. Michael Clark

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

Hip, Leg & Foot Conditions

• IT Band Syndrome: Pain, typically on the outside of the knee or sometimes the hip, common in runners and cyclists, caused by friction and irritation of the iliotibial (IT) band.
• Plantar Fasciitis / Heel & Foot Pain: Effective treatment for plantar fasciitis, focusing on reducing inflammation, stretching the plantar fascia and calf muscles, and addressing foot biomechanics.
• Ankle Sprains & Instability: Rehabilitation for acute ankle sprains and management of chronic ankle instability to restore strength, balance, and prevent recurrent injuries.

Specific Populations & Injury Types

• 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.
• Motor Vehicle Accident Injuries (e.g., Whiplash, Back Strain): Musculoskeletal trauma resulting from car accidents, commonly involving whiplash-associated disorders (neck pain, stiffness, headaches), back strains, soft tissue damage, and joint sprains.

General Musculoskeletal & Systemic Conditions

• Fibromyalgia (Pain & Stiffness Management): As part of a multidisciplinary approach, chiropractic care can help manage the widespread musculoskeletal pain, stiffness, fatigue, and tender points associated with fibromyalgia.
• 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.

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

• Diversified Technique: Classic chiropractic adjustments characterized by precise, gentle thrusts to correct joint dysfunction.
• Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT®): A gentle technique focusing on the relationship between the sacrum (base of the spine) and occiput (base of the skull), often using pelvic blocks and cranial work to restore nervous system function (practitioner certification dependent).
• Activator Methods® Technique: Precise and gentle corrections delivered with a handheld adjusting instrument.
• Gonstead Technique: A highly specific and detailed approach to spinal analysis and adjustment.
• Flexion-Distraction Therapy (e.g., Cox® Technic): Spinal decompression and mobilization performed on a specialized table to relieve pressure on discs and nerves.
• Thompson Drop-Table Technique: Low-force adjustments facilitated by a segmented 'drop piece' table to enhance joint mobilization.

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

• Experience the significant benefit of regaining functional strength in previously weak or injured areas if you're dealing with coccyx pain after a fall. Dr. Michael helps patients regain their ability to fully participate in activities like simply being able to sit on the floor to play with your children/pets through focused and gentle chiropractic treatments.
• For those whose groin pain related to my hip movement has made gardening for hours on end a challenge, Dr. Michael offers a path towards feeling stronger, more stable, and more resilient in their body. Chiropractic care can be instrumental in helping you rediscover the joy of movement and an active lifestyle.
• Many individuals visit Dr. Michael because they are tired of dealing with pain in the arch of my foot. Through a personalized chiropractic care plan, they often find they can achieve an undeniable improvement in their overall quality of life and daily happiness and get back to enjoying important activities like going on peaceful fishing or challenging hunting trips.
• If foot pain making it hard to stand or walk for long is impacting your daily life and preventing you from enjoying operating machinery or tools with precision, safely and efficiently, know that effective chiropractic care can help. Dr. Michael focuses on achieving experiencing fewer and less intense muscle spasms so you can engage in the things you love again.

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

Dr. Clark's practice at Sundre Chiropractic Centre is situated in the heart of Sundre, AB, within a modern clinic located in the central Sundre neighborhood. The clinic's convenient location makes it easy for patients to access, being close to local community services, pharmacies, and other amenities. It is well-connected via local public transit routes, facilitating easy transportation for those who prefer not to drive. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

Is chiropractic care covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?

In Alberta, AHCIP provides limited coverage for chiropractic services primarily for seniors (65+) and dependents under 18. These benefits often include a set number of visits or a maximum dollar amount per benefit year, usually with a co-payment required. For most adults, AHCIP does not cover chiropractic care in private clinics. Patients are advised to check their current AHCIP coverage limits and consult their private insurance plans for additional coverage options.

What are the typical phases of chiropractic care?

Care generally occurs in stages. The initial phase focuses on relieving pain (relief care). Once pain is managed, the focus shifts to correcting the underlying cause and improving function (corrective care). Afterward, some patients opt for maintenance or wellness care, which involves periodic check-ups to sustain health, similar to dental cleanings.

What is Sundre Chiropractic Centre's appointment cancellation policy?

We understand that life happens! However, to ensure we can accommodate all our patients, we kindly request at least 24 hours' notice for any appointment cancellations or rescheduling. Appointments missed or cancelled with less than 24 hours' notice may be subject to a cancellation fee. Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to make changes.

Can children and babies receive chiropractic care?

Chiropractic care is safe and beneficial for children of all ages, from infants to teenagers. Techniques are always modified to be extremely gentle and appropriate for each child's age, size, and developmental stage. Common reasons parents seek chiropractic care for their children include concerns related to posture, after minor falls or sports-related tumbles, supporting overall spinal health during growth spurts, or addressing issues like colic or feeding difficulties in infants, where gentle musculoskeletal approaches may be supportive.

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

X-rays are not routinely required for every patient. Dr. Clark will conduct a thorough history and physical examination to determine if imaging is necessary. Imaging is typically recommended to rule out serious conditions such as fractures or pathology, assess for significant spinal degeneration or instability, or if the patient's condition is not improving as expected with conservative care. All imaging decisions are made following established guidelines to minimize radiation exposure.

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

Chiropractors in Alberta are primary contact healthcare professionals, meaning patients can book an appointment directly without a referral. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a doctor's referral for reimbursement purposes. Patients should verify their individual insurance policies for specific requirements.

Do Chiropractors work with other healthcare professionals?

Yes, Chiropractors often collaborate with other healthcare providers. We frequently work with and refer to family physicians, physiotherapists, massage therapists, naturopathic doctors, and specialists to ensure our patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care.

Sundre Chiropractic Centre
Bay 3, 200 Main Ave W
Sundre, AB T0M 1X0

Phone: (403) 638-9199

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

License #1360.0

Verify registration with the College of Chiropractors of Alberta (CCOA): https://www.theccoa.ca/CCOA/CCOA/PublicRegister/PublicRegisterDisplay.aspx?UserID=4959

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