About
Dr. Steven M. Lester is a dedicated Chiropractor. Practicing at Active Integrative Medicine in Pickering, ON, he is committed to high-quality, patient-centered care aligning with College of Chiropractors of Ontario (CCO) standards. With a focus on providing comprehensive chiropractic assessment and treatment, Dr. Lester addresses a broad spectrum of neuromusculoskeletal conditions, emphasizing spinal health and overall well-being. He serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, tailoring his approach to meet each individual’s unique needs and health goals.
He completed his Doctor of Chiropractic from Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College. With extensive clinical experience, Dr. Lester is committed to ongoing professional development and evidence-based chiropractic practices. His approach integrates the latest research and techniques to ensure safe, effective, and personalized care for every patient.
Dr. Lester’s practice philosophy centers on empowering patients with knowledge about their condition and proactive strategies for long-term health. He strives to help the Pickering community achieve better health and vitality through individualized chiropractic care plans. He offers care in English, ensuring clear communication and understanding throughout the treatment process.
Dr. Steven M. Lester provides skilled chiropractic care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:
General Musculoskeletal & Systemic Conditions
- Tendinitis / Tendinopathy (Various Regions): Addressing tendon pain and dysfunction to help you return to your daily activities and sports without discomfort.
- Scoliosis (Functional & Pain Management): Providing supportive care for individuals with scoliosis (abnormal spinal curvature), focusing on managing associated musculoskeletal pain, improving posture, addressing muscle imbalances, and enhancing functional capacity.
- 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.
- Myofascial Pain Syndrome / Trigger Points: Management of myofascial pain through various soft tissue techniques and corrective exercises.
Specific Populations & Injury Types
- Postpartum Musculoskeletal Issues: Rehabilitation focused on restoring pelvic and spinal alignment, core strength, and addressing pain after delivery.
- Geriatric Care (Mobility, Stiffness, Fall Prevention): Supporting active aging by addressing the specific musculoskeletal needs of seniors, enhancing their comfort and independence.
Head, Neck & Jaw Conditions
- Neck Pain (Acute & Chronic): Targeted care for various types of neck pain, whether from a recent injury or a long-standing issue, aiming to restore mobility and reduce discomfort.
- Tinnitus (Cervicogenic/Somatosensory): Investigating and addressing potential musculoskeletal contributions from the neck or jaw that may be linked to certain types of tinnitus.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Dr. Lester can assess your needs.
- Dynamic Neuromuscular Stabilization (DNS) Exercises: Exercises based on the principles of DNS to improve movement quality and core stability.
- PNF Stretching (Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation): Partner-assisted or self-administered PNF techniques to enhance muscle length and joint mobility.
- Sports Injury Management & Performance Optimization: Specialized chiropractic care for sports-related conditions and athletic enhancement.
- Core Stability & Strengthening Programs: Exercises focused on strengthening the deep muscles of your abdomen, back, and pelvis to provide better spinal support, improve posture, and reduce injury risk.
- Personalized Therapeutic Exercise Prescription: Customized exercise programs including stretching, strengthening, and stabilization exercises designed to support your recovery, prevent re-injury, and improve overall function.
- Stretching & Flexibility Programs: Personalized stretching routines to alleviate stiffness and improve tissue extensibility.
Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dr. Lester. 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 Active Integrative Medicine, chiropractic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Dr. Lester frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- Getting back to shooting hoops and playing pickup basketball at the local outdoor court after struggling with heel spur pain making it hard to stand is a frequent aspiration for patients at Dr. Steven's clinic. A dedicated care plan often leads to feeling more aligned and balanced in their posture and a return to a more active life.
- Patients often share how feeling generally 'out of alignment' or 'out of whack' affected their ability to swimming laps efficiently at the community pool for fitness. With Dr. Steven's help and a focus on enjoying a noticeable reduction in neck stiffness and related tension, many are now enjoying life with improved function and less discomfort.
- Many individuals visit Dr. Steven because they are tired of dealing with pain in the ball of my foot. Through a personalized chiropractic care plan, they often find they can achieve enjoying less jaw pain and more comfortable chewing and get back to enjoying important activities like comfortably reading a good book for hours without neck or shoulder pain.
- Dr. Steven understands how frustrating pain in the arch of my foot can be. By aiming for maintaining their independence and an active lifestyle as they age, chiropractic care can empower you to return to activities like shoveling snow or raking leaves without dreading the aftermath with renewed confidence.
Your personalized chiropractic care plan, developed with Dr. Lester, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Active Integrative Medicine is situated in the Bay Ridges, West Shore neighborhood of Pickering. The clinic is conveniently located near Pickering Town Centre, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. Patients can reach the clinic via Durham Region Transit (DRT), with stops nearby ensuring a smooth and accessible journey. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Free patient parking is typically available on-site or nearby.
- Is chiropractic care covered by Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) in ON?
- Generally, Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) does not cover chiropractic services provided in private clinics for most residents. There may be very limited exceptions, such as care delivered within certain community health programs or clinics with integrated services, but these are uncommon. Patients are advised to check with their private extended health insurance plans for coverage details and reimbursement options.
- 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 insurance plans may require a referral for reimbursement, so it's recommended to verify with your insurer.
- Is there parking available at or near Active Integrative Medicine?
- Yes, there is free patient parking available directly in front of or behind our building. Limited street parking is also available nearby, and public parking options may be accessible in the vicinity.
- Can children and babies receive chiropractic care?
- Absolutely. Chiropractic care is safe and beneficial for children of all ages, including infants. Techniques are modified to be gentle and appropriate for each child's age and size. Parents often seek care for concerns such as posture, after minor falls, during growth spurts, or for issues like colic and feeding difficulties in infants.
- What should I expect during my first chiropractic appointment?
- Your first visit typically involves a thorough consultation and physical examination. The Chiropractor will review your health history, current symptoms, and treatment goals. This is followed by assessments such as postural analysis, spinal evaluation, and neurological screening. Based on the findings, a personalized treatment plan is discussed, and some initial treatment or advice may be provided.
- How can I tell if chiropractic care is right for me?
- If you experience pain, stiffness, or dysfunction related to your spine, muscles, joints, or nerves—such as back pain, neck pain, headaches, or extremity issues—chiropractic care may be beneficial. Scheduling a consultation allows Dr. Lester to evaluate your condition and determine if chiropractic treatment aligns with your health goals or if other interventions are more appropriate.
Active Integrative Medicine
780 Kingston Rd. Unit B10
Pickering, ON L1V 0C5
Phone: (905) 492-8688
Dr. Steven M. Lester 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/4380/10/595d5ea965a9f0df10fcf5aa
Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.