Dr. Nicolas Boulay

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

Head, Neck & Jaw Conditions

• 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.
• Headaches (Cervicogenic, Tension-Type, Migraine Support): Relief strategies for headaches originating from neck dysfunction or muscular tension, and supportive care to reduce the frequency or intensity of certain migraines.

Shoulder, Arm & Hand Conditions

• Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): A rehabilitative approach to gradually restore shoulder mobility and alleviate the discomfort of adhesive capsulitis.
• Nerve Entrapments (e.g., Thoracic Outlet, Cubital Tunnel): Conditions where nerves in the shoulder, arm, or elbow area become compressed or irritated, leading to symptoms like pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arm or hand.
• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) of the Upper Limb: Relief for symptoms caused by overuse of the hands, wrists, and arms in work or daily activities.
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Conservative Management): Helping to relieve pressure on the median nerve to reduce hand and wrist discomfort associated with carpal tunnel syndrome.

General Musculoskeletal & Systemic Conditions

• Muscle Strains & Ligament Sprains (Various Regions): Comprehensive care for acute muscle and ligament injuries, focusing on reducing inflammation, promoting optimal healing, and restoring strength and flexibility.
• Bursitis (Various Regions): Treatment for bursitis in areas like the shoulder (subacromial), hip (trochanteric), or elbow (olecranon), aimed at reducing inflammation and restoring pain-free movement.
• Tendinitis / Tendinopathy (Various Regions): Management of various tendinopathies throughout the body, such as rotator cuff tendinitis, patellar tendinopathy, or Achilles tendinopathy, using a multifaceted approach.

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

• Prenatal & Postnatal Chiropractic Care: Supporting musculoskeletal health and comfort throughout pregnancy and after childbirth.
• Pediatric Chiropractic Care: Gentle assessment and modified adjusting techniques specifically adapted for the unique needs of infants, children, and adolescents for various musculoskeletal concerns.
• Active Release Techniques (ART®): Specialized manual therapy combining precise pressure with active patient movements to resolve soft tissue restrictions.
• Webster Technique (for Pregnancy): A specific chiropractic analysis and diversified adjustment for pregnant individuals, aimed at reducing sacral subluxation and optimizing pelvic biomechanics to support a more comfortable pregnancy and birth (practitioner certification dependent).
• Geriatric Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic care to help seniors maintain activity levels, manage arthritis pain, and improve stability.
• Myofascial Release Technique (MRT): Hands-on therapy focused on releasing tension and restrictions in muscles and their surrounding connective tissue (fascia) to improve mobility and reduce pain.

Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dr. Boulay. 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 Ordre des chiropraticiens du Québec (OCQ).

At Spécifik Performance, chiropractic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Dr. Boulay frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:

• Getting back to going on peaceful fishing or challenging hunting trips after struggling with tailbone pain making sitting excruciating is a frequent aspiration for patients at Dr. Nicolas's clinic. A dedicated care plan often leads to relying less on pain medication and more on their body's natural healing and a return to a more active life.
• Many individuals visit Dr. Nicolas because they are tired of dealing with constant dull headaches making focusing hard. Through a personalized chiropractic care plan, they often find they can achieve increased flexibility throughout their spine, allowing for easier movement and get back to enjoying important activities like spending quality time working on your car or motorcycle in the garage.
• Experience the significant benefit of feeling stronger, more stable, and more resilient in their body if you're dealing with constant lower back soreness. Dr. Nicolas helps patients regain their ability to fully participate in activities like deepening your yoga and Pilates practice with improved flexibility and strength through focused and gentle chiropractic treatments.
• Overcoming trouble opening my mouth wide without pain to achieve feeling empowered with the knowledge and tools to maintain their spinal health and resume your weekly spin class is a common success story at Dr. Nicolas's practice. Personalized care makes a real difference.

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

Dr. Boulay's practice at Spécifik Performance is situated in the Hull Sector North (Parc de la Montagne, Wrightville) neighborhood of Gatineau. The clinic is conveniently located near UQO (Université du Québec en Outaouais) Campus Alexandre-Taché, making it easily accessible for students and community members alike. The clinic is well-connected to public transportation, with access via Société de transport de l'Outaouais (STO), including the Rapibus BRT system. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

How long do chiropractic appointments usually last?

Your initial chiropractic consultation and examination is typically the longest visit, generally lasting between 45 to 60 minutes to allow for a thorough assessment. Subsequent treatment appointments are usually shorter, often ranging from 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the specific treatments being provided and your individual needs for that day.

What is chiropractic care and how can it help me?

Chiropractic is a healthcare profession focused on diagnosing, treating, and preventing disorders of the neuromusculoskeletal system, primarily the spine, and their effects on overall health. Chiropraticiens use hands-on spinal manipulation (adjustments) and other manual therapies, as well as exercise, and lifestyle counseling, to relieve pain, restore function, and support your body's natural ability to heal. It can help with issues like back pain, neck pain, headaches, and joint problems in your arms or legs.

Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Chiropraticien in QC?

In Quebec, chiropractors are primary contact healthcare professionals, which means 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 insurance policy to confirm coverage.

Does Spécifik Performance offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, Spécifik Performance offers direct billing to most major private insurance providers such as Canada Life, Sun Life, Manulife, Green Shield, and others. Please bring your insurance card and details, and confirm your coverage with your insurer, as plans and coverage amounts vary. Patients are responsible for co-payments or any amounts not covered by their plan.

What kind of clothing should I wear to my chiropractic appointment?

It is best to wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing that allows for ease of movement. Athletic wear, leggings, comfortable pants, and a t-shirt are good choices. This helps your Chiropraticien assess your posture and perform examinations or treatments effectively. You may be asked to change into a gown for certain procedures if necessary.

What is Spécifik Performance'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.

Is chiropractic care covered by Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ) in QC?

Chiropractic services are not covered by RAMQ in Quebec when provided in private clinics. Patients typically pay out-of-pocket or through private insurance. In rare cases, care received in a hospital setting might be covered, but this is not common for private practice. Always verify your private insurance coverage and consult with your insurer for details.

Spécifik Performance
110-15, rue Buteau
Gatineau, QC J8Z 1V4

Phone: (819) 775-7973 | Website: https://specifik.ca/succursale/gatineau/

Dr. Michael Kricken is regulated by the Code des professions in QC and is a member of the Ordre des chiropraticiens du Québec (OCQ).

Registration can be verified with the Ordre des chiropraticiens du Québec (OCQ).

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