Dr. Tamara McDonald

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

Hip, Leg & Foot Conditions

• Achilles Tendinopathy: Management of Achilles tendon pain and dysfunction through targeted therapies to promote healing, improve tendon load tolerance, and address contributing factors.
• Ankle Sprains & Instability: Chiropractic care to support healing after an ankle sprain, including joint mobilization and proprioceptive exercises.
• Piriformis Syndrome / Deep Gluteal Pain: Treatment for deep gluteal pain or piriformis syndrome, involving techniques to release the piriformis muscle and alleviate pressure on the sciatic nerve.

Specific Populations & Injury Types

• Sports Injuries (Acute & Overuse): Injuries sustained during athletic activities or exercise, ranging from sudden incidents like sprains, strains, and joint subluxations to chronic pain developing from repetitive stress or overuse.
• Motor Vehicle Accident Injuries (e.g., Whiplash, Back Strain): Comprehensive rehabilitation programs for individuals injured in MVAs, focusing on pain relief, restoring mobility, and addressing all accident-related physical complaints.
• Pediatric Musculoskeletal Conditions (e.g., Growing Pains, Postural Concerns): Gentle chiropractic care for infants, children, and adolescents, focusing on issues like non-specific growing pains, postural imbalances, recovery from minor sports injuries, or concerns related to spinal development, using age-appropriate techniques.
• Work-Related Injuries (RSI, Lifting Injuries): Treatment and prevention strategies for injuries related to occupational tasks, including ergonomic advice and rehabilitation to support a safe return to work.

Back & Spine Conditions

• Rib Pain / Intercostal Neuralgia / Costochondritis: Care for conditions like costochondritis or rib subluxations, aiming to restore proper rib mechanics and alleviate chest wall or mid-back discomfort.
• Low Back Pain (Acute, Subacute, Chronic): Helping you overcome lower back pain through targeted adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and corrective exercises to improve spinal mechanics.

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

• Cross-Friction Massage: A specific deep transverse massage technique applied across affected tendons or ligaments to break down adhesions, reduce scar tissue, and promote an optimal healing environment.
• Graston Technique® / IASTM: Targeted therapy with tools like Graston® to address stubborn soft tissue problems.
• Active Release Techniques (ART®): ART® for targeted relief of soft tissue injuries and repetitive strain conditions.
• 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.
• Trigger Point Therapy: Application of focused pressure to specific hyperirritable spots (trigger points) within muscles to relieve pain, reduce muscle tension, and restore normal muscle function.
• Comprehensive Chiropractic Examination: A thorough assessment including health history, postural analysis, spinal alignment checks, range of motion testing, orthopedic and neurological tests to determine the cause of your concern.

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

• Dr. Tamara frequently helps people find solutions for the limitations imposed by a slipped disc issue causing agony. The common goal is increased flexibility throughout their spine, allowing for easier movement, enabling a confident return to valued life activities, for instance, training for a half-marathon/marathon, with greater comfort and ease.
• Getting back to performing detailed work like model building or jewelry making after struggling with that nagging ache in my lower back is a frequent aspiration for patients at Dr. Tamara's clinic. A dedicated care plan often leads to feeling lasting relief from chronic shoulder discomfort and clicking and a return to a more active life.
• If really bad low back pain is impacting your daily life and preventing you from enjoying effortlessly tying your own shoelaces or putting on socks without difficulty, know that effective chiropractic care can help. Dr. Tamara focuses on achieving a better understanding of their body and how to prevent future flare-ups so you can engage in the things you love again.
• Patients often share how soreness on the inside of my elbow (golfer's elbow) affected their ability to gracefully ice skating with your family during the winter months. With Dr. Tamara's help and a focus on returning to their favorite sports and activities sooner and with more confidence, many are now enjoying life with improved function and less discomfort.

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

Diamond Valley Chiropractic Clinic is situated in the central Black Diamond neighborhood of Black Diamond, AB. The clinic is conveniently located near local community services and pharmacies, making it easy for patients to access comprehensive care. It is accessible via local public transit routes, providing a seamless experience for those using public transportation. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Street parking and nearby paid lots offer convenient options for visitors.

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

In Alberta, the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) provides limited coverage for chiropractic services primarily for seniors aged 65 and older, as well as dependents under 18. These benefits often include a set number of visits or a maximum dollar amount per benefit year, usually with some co-payment required. For most other adults, AHCIP generally does not cover chiropractic care in private clinics. It is advisable to verify current coverage limits and consult private insurance plans for additional coverage options.

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

X-rays are not routinely required for every patient. Dr. McDonald will conduct a thorough history and physical examination to determine if imaging studies are clinically necessary. Typically, imaging is recommended to rule out serious conditions such as fractures or pathology, to assess for significant spinal degeneration or instability, or if the patient's condition is not improving as expected with conservative care. All imaging procedures are performed following established diagnostic 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 from a medical doctor. However, some private or extended health insurance plans may require a doctor's referral for reimbursement purposes. It is recommended to check the specifics of your insurance policy to confirm coverage requirements.

What are Diamond Valley Chiropractic Clinic'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 practitioner availability.

Does Diamond Valley Chiropractic Clinic offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, Diamond Valley Chiropractic Clinic offers direct billing to most major private insurance providers such as Canada Life, Sun Life, Manulife, and Green Shield. Patients are advised to bring their insurance cards and verify their coverage details with their insurer, as plans and coverage amounts can vary. Patients are responsible for any co-payments or amounts not covered by their insurance plan.

What should I expect during my first chiropractic appointment?

Your first appointment typically involves a comprehensive consultation where Dr. McDonald will discuss your health history, current symptoms, and treatment goals. This is followed by a physical examination, which may include postural analysis, spinal assessment, range of motion testing, orthopedic, and neurological evaluations. Based on these assessments, Dr. McDonald will discuss her findings and propose a personalized treatment plan. Some initial treatment or advice may be provided during this first visit, if appropriate.

Is chiropractic treatment, especially an adjustment, painful?

Most patients find chiropractic adjustments to be comfortable and not painful. The goal is to reduce pain and improve function. While there may be a brief sensation of pressure or a gentle click, it is rarely uncomfortable. If muscles are tight or joints inflamed, some soreness may occur temporarily afterward, but Dr. McDonald will tailor her techniques to your comfort level and needs.

Diamond Valley Chiropractic Clinic
205 Centre Ave W
Black Diamond, AB T0L 0H0

Phone: (403) 933-3088 | Website: dvchiro.ca

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

License #1959.0

Verify registration with the College of Chiropractors of Alberta (CCOA): https://www.theccoa.ca/CCOA/CCOA/PublicRegister/PublicRegisterDisplay.aspx?UserID=5899

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