Dr. Michelle L. Cruickshank – Chiropractor | Waterloo, ON

Dr. Michelle L. Cruickshank is a dedicated Chiropractor. Practicing at The Natural Way Health Clinic in Waterloo, ON, she is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Chiropractors of Ontario (CCO) standards. Dr. Cruickshank specializes in providing comprehensive chiropractic assessment and treatment for a broad spectrum of neuromusculoskeletal conditions, focusing on spinal health and overall well-being. She serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, ensuring that each individual receives personalized care tailored to their unique needs and health goals.

She completed her Doctor of Chiropractic degree and has accumulated extensive clinical experience. Dr. Cruickshank is committed to ongoing professional development and adheres strictly to evidence-based chiropractic practices. Her approach emphasizes the importance of integrating the latest research into her treatment plans to optimize health outcomes and promote long-term wellness for her patients.

Dr. Cruickshank’s practice philosophy revolves around providing individualized care plans, empowering patients with knowledge about their conditions, and encouraging proactive strategies for maintaining health. She adopts a holistic approach that recognizes the vital connection between the spine, nervous system, and overall health. She offers care in English, ensuring clear communication and understanding with her patients.

Dr. Michelle L. Cruickshank provides skilled chiropractic care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:

Hip, Leg & Foot Conditions

• IT Band Syndrome: Helping athletes and active individuals overcome lateral knee pain related to a tight or irritated IT band.
• Achilles Tendinopathy: Helping you recover from Achilles tendinitis/tendinosis and return to activities like running or jumping without pain.

General Musculoskeletal & Systemic Conditions

• Fibromyalgia (Pain & Stiffness Management): Helping fibromyalgia patients improve their quality of life by addressing musculoskeletal components of their condition.
• Myofascial Pain Syndrome / Trigger Points: Identifying and treating muscular trigger points to relieve pain, reduce muscle tension, and improve range of motion.
• Bursitis (Various Regions): Alleviating discomfort from inflamed bursae through gentle therapies and advice on activity modification.

Shoulder, Arm & Hand Conditions

• Shoulder Pain (Rotator Cuff Issues, Impingement, Bursitis): Addressing common causes of shoulder pain such as rotator cuff strains, tendinopathy, subacromial impingement, or inflammation of the bursa.
• 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. Cruickshank can assess your needs.

• Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) Exercises: Exercises based on the principles of DNS to improve movement quality and core stability.
• Interferential Current (IFC) / TENS Therapy: Electrotherapy for pain relief and muscle relaxation.
• PNF Stretching (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation): Partner-assisted or self-administered PNF techniques to enhance muscle length and joint mobility.
• Core Stability & Strengthening Programs: Targeted training to build a strong and stable core, essential for back health and efficient movement.
• Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Personalized stretching routines to alleviate stiffness and improve tissue extensibility.
• Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Tailored rehabilitative exercises to address specific weaknesses, imbalances, or mobility restrictions.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dr. Cruickshank. 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 The Natural Way Health Clinic, chiropractic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Dr. Cruickshank frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Dr. Michelle understands how frustrating bulging disc symptoms can be. By aiming for improved coordination for both simple and complex tasks, chiropractic care can empower you to return to activities like curling in your league with renewed confidence.
• Imagine being able to lifting and carrying heavy items at work without tennis elbow pain making gripping hard holding you back. Dr. Michelle works closely with patients to achieve outcomes such as a significant reduction in the severity and daily impact of TMJ symptoms, often utilizing targeted spinal adjustments and supportive therapies to restore proper function.
• Dr. Michelle frequently helps people find solutions for the limitations imposed by that pinched nerve feeling shooting down my arm/leg. The common goal is a greater sense of control over their symptoms and physical well-being, enabling a confident return to valued life activities, for instance, standing and walking comfortably while attending concerts and live events, with greater comfort and ease.
• For those whose foot pain making it hard to stand or walk for long has made skiing/snowboarding all day on the slopes a challenge, Dr. Michelle offers a path towards feeling more aligned and balanced in their posture. 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. Cruickshank, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.

Dr. Cruickshank practices at The Natural Way Health Clinic, situated in the Waterloo East (Glenridge, Lincoln Heights) neighborhood of Waterloo. The clinic is conveniently located near the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics and is easily accessible via Grand River Transit (GRT), including bus and ION light rail services. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

Is there parking available at or near The Natural Way Health Clinic?

Yes, there is free patient parking available directly in front of or behind our building, providing easy access for our patients.

Can children and babies receive chiropractic care?

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

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

No, chiropractors are primary contact healthcare professionals in Ontario. Patients can book an appointment directly without a referral. 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 insurance policy.

What should I expect during my first chiropractic appointment?

The first session primarily involves assessment and understanding your needs. Dr. Cruickshank will ask about your health background, perform physical tests, and identify the cause of your problem. A tailored treatment plan will be developed collaboratively, and treatment may begin during this initial visit if appropriate. You will also have the opportunity to ask questions.

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

Generally, OHIP does not cover chiropractic services in private clinics for most individuals. There may be very limited exceptions through specific government programs or care delivered within certain community health settings. It is important to check your private insurance for coverage details.

Do chiropractors provide exercises or stretches?

Yes, most chiropractors incorporate rehabilitative exercises and stretches into their treatment plans. These support the effects of adjustments, help correct muscle imbalances, and empower you to manage your condition independently.

Does The Natural Way Health Clinic offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, our clinic offers direct billing to most major private insurance providers such as Canada Life, Sun Life, Manulife, and Green Shield. Patients should bring their insurance cards and confirm their coverage with their insurer, as plans and benefits vary. The patient remains responsible for any co-payments or amounts not covered by their plan.

The Natural Way Health Clinic
131 Union St. E., Suite 103
Waterloo, ON N2J 1C4

Phone: (519) 743-2480

Dr. Michelle L. Cruickshank 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/5830/10/595d5ea965a9f0df10fcfc69

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