Dr. Ryan Kowalski – Chiropractor | Mission, BC

Dr. Ryan Kowalski is a dedicated Chiropractor. Practicing at Mission Hills Chiropractic and Massage in Mission, BC, Ryan is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Chiropractors of British Columbia (CCBC) standards. With a strong focus on providing comprehensive chiropractic assessment and treatment, Dr. Kowalski addresses a broad spectrum of neuromusculoskeletal conditions, emphasizing spinal health and overall well-being. His approach is tailored to meet each patient's unique needs, ensuring a supportive and empathetic environment for individuals of all ages, from infants to seniors.

Dr. Ryan Kowalski completed his Doctor of Chiropractic degree and has accumulated valuable clinical experience. He is dedicated to ongoing professional development, staying current with evidence-based chiropractic practices to deliver the best possible outcomes for his patients. His expertise in various techniques and his compassionate approach make him a trusted provider in the community.

Promoting natural, non-invasive healing and optimal body function, Dr. Ryan Kowalski provides individualized care plans that align with each patient's health goals. He speaks fluent English and Cantonese, allowing him to connect effectively with a diverse patient base and ensure clear communication throughout the care process.

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

Hip, Leg & Foot Conditions

• Ankle Sprains & Instability: Rehabilitation for acute ankle sprains and management of chronic ankle instability to restore strength, balance, and prevent recurrent injuries.
• Knee Pain (Osteoarthritis, Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - Conservative): Addressing biomechanical factors contributing to knee pain, helping to alleviate discomfort and improve your ability to walk, run, or climb stairs.
• IT Band Syndrome: Treatment for IT band friction syndrome, focusing on releasing tension in the IT band and associated muscles, correcting biomechanics, and reducing inflammation.
• Achilles Tendinopathy: Management of Achilles tendon pain and dysfunction through targeted therapies to promote healing, improve tendon load tolerance, and address contributing factors.

Specific Populations & Injury Types

• Pediatric Musculoskeletal Conditions (e.g., Growing Pains, Postural Concerns): Care for young patients, from babies with torticollis (co-management) to teens with 'text neck' or sports-related strains.
• 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.
• Pregnancy-Related Musculoskeletal Pain: Supporting a healthier and more comfortable pregnancy by addressing biomechanical changes and associated pain.

General Musculoskeletal & Systemic Conditions

• Bursitis (Various Regions): Inflammation of a bursa (a small, fluid-filled sac that acts as a cushion between bones, tendons, and muscles near joints), causing localized pain, tenderness, and sometimes swelling.
• Postural Imbalances & Related Pain: Discomfort, muscle strain, and joint stress resulting from poor or sustained body alignment during daily activities like sitting, standing, or working.
• Scoliosis (Functional & Pain Management): Tailored exercise and manual therapy approaches to support individuals living with scoliosis.
• 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.

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

• Sacro-Occipital Technique (SOT®): A specialized method aimed at optimizing cerebrospinal fluid flow and neurological integrity through craniosacral adjustments.
• Diversified Technique: Hands-on spinal and extremity manipulations to improve joint mobility and reduce nerve irritation.
• Thompson Drop-Table Technique: Low-force adjustments facilitated by a segmented 'drop piece' table to enhance joint mobilization.
• Flexion-Distraction Therapy (e.g., Cox® Technic): Spinal decompression and mobilization performed on a specialized table to relieve pressure on discs and nerves.
• Gonstead Technique: Targeted adjustments based on the Gonstead system of chiropractic care.
• 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).

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

• Imagine being able to ice skating with your family without a weak or painful achilles tendon holding you back. Dr. Ryan works closely with patients to achieve outcomes such as better tolerance for physical activity without experiencing significant post-activity pain, often utilizing targeted spinal adjustments and supportive therapies to restore proper function.
• Experience the significant benefit of enhanced athletic performance due to improved biomechanics and reduced restrictions if you're dealing with shoulder bursitis pain. Dr. Ryan helps patients regain their ability to fully participate in activities like shoveling snow or raking leaves without dreading the aftermath through focused and gentle chiropractic treatments.
• Dr. Ryan understands how frustrating migraines that seemed linked to my neck stiffness can be. By aiming for an undeniable improvement in their overall quality of life and daily happiness, chiropractic care can empower you to return to activities like playing a full 18 holes of golf without lower back stiffness or hip pain with renewed confidence.
• If tailbone pain making sitting excruciating is impacting your daily life and preventing you from enjoying swimming laps efficiently at the community pool for fitness, know that effective chiropractic care can help. Dr. Ryan focuses on achieving living with significantly less pain and greater freedom of movement so you can engage in the things you love again.

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

Dr. Kowalski's practice is situated at Mission Hills Chiropractic and Massage, located in the central Mission neighborhood of Mission, BC. The clinic is conveniently positioned within the community, close to local services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access care. It is well-connected by public transit routes, ensuring that those using buses or other transit options can reach the clinic with ease. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.

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

In British Columbia, chiropractors are primary contact healthcare professionals, meaning patients can book an appointment directly without needing a referral from a medical doctor. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may still require a doctor's referral for reimbursement purposes. Patients are advised to check the specifics of their individual insurance policies to understand any potential requirements.

Do chiropractors provide exercises or stretches?

Yes, exercises and stretches are an integral part of many chiropractic treatment strategies. Your Chiropractor will likely show you specific movements to do at home to help speed up your recovery, maintain your progress, and prevent the problem from returning.

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

X-rays are not routinely required for every patient. Dr. Kowalski will conduct a thorough history and physical examination to determine if X-rays or other imaging studies are clinically necessary. Imaging is typically recommended to rule out more serious conditions, such as fractures or pathology, or to assess for significant spinal degeneration or instability. It may also be considered if a patient's condition is not improving as expected with conservative care, always following established diagnostic imaging guidelines to minimize radiation exposure.

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. Chiropractors are trained to work with pregnant women and often use modified adjustment techniques, along with specialized tables or pillows, to ensure comfort and safety for both mother and baby. Some chiropractors, like Dr. Kowalski, are also certified in the Webster Technique, a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment for pregnant women.

Do chiropractors only treat back pain?

It’s a common misconception that chiropractors only deal with back problems. In reality, chiropractors treat a broad range of conditions affecting the body’s structure and function. If you have pain or dysfunction in any joint or muscle, from your jaw to your toes, a Chiropractor may be able to help.

Is chiropractic care covered by Medical Services Plan (MSP) in BC?

In British Columbia, MSP provides partial coverage for chiropractic services, typically covering a set amount per visit and a limited number of visits per year for eligible individuals, such as those on Premium Assistance. Most patients will have a co-payment. It is important to verify your eligibility directly with MSP and check your private insurance plans for additional coverage.

What are Mission Hills Chiropractic and Massage's operating hours?

Our clinic is typically open Monday to Friday from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with some early morning or evening appointments available on select days. We may also offer Saturday appointments from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Please call our office or check our website for the most current hours and specific practitioner availability.

Mission Hills Chiropractic and Massage
33010 – 5th Avenue
Mission, BC V2V 1V5

Phone: (604) 876-4988

Dr. Ryan Kowalski 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=10885

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