Description
About Tim
Dr. Tim Chow is a dedicated Chiropractor practicing at Sierra Chiropractic and Massage in St. Albert, AB. Tim is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the College of Chiropractors of Alberta (CCOA). With a focus on comprehensive assessment and treatment, Dr. Chow specializes in addressing a broad spectrum of neuromusculoskeletal conditions, emphasizing spinal health and overall well-being. His approach is tailored to meet the unique needs of each patient, promoting optimal function and health.
Dr. Chow's role involves delivering evidence-based chiropractic care aimed at improving mobility, reducing pain, and supporting long-term health. He serves patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, ensuring accessibility and personalized attention. Dr. Chow believes in empowering his patients through education and active participation in their recovery process, fostering a holistic approach to health that integrates the latest clinical practices with compassionate care.
Educated and experienced, Dr. Tim Chow completed his Doctor of Chiropractic degree and has accumulated clinical experience that reinforces his dedication to ongoing professional development. He remains committed to staying current with advancements in chiropractic research and techniques. Dr. Chow offers care exclusively in English and strives to help the St. Albert community achieve better health, vitality, and quality of life through evidence-based chiropractic interventions.
Common Conditions Dr. Tim Chow Addresses
Dr. Tim Chow provides skilled chiropractic care for a variety of conditions, including but not limited to:
Back & Spine Conditions
- Herniated, Protruded, or Bulging Discs (Symptomatic): Chiropractic care to help alleviate the pain and discomfort caused by disc bulges or herniations, improving your ability to function.
- Sacroiliac (SI) Joint Dysfunction / Pain: Restoring proper motion and stability to the SI joints to alleviate pain and improve pelvic biomechanics.
Hip, Leg & Foot Conditions
- 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.
- Knee Pain (Osteoarthritis, Patellofemoral Syndrome, Meniscal Issues - Conservative): Aching, sharp pain, or instability in the knee, commonly resulting from cartilage degeneration (osteoarthritis), issues with how the kneecap tracks (patellofemoral pain syndrome), or certain types of meniscal (cartilage) injuries suitable for conservative care.
- Piriformis Syndrome / Deep Gluteal Pain: Pain in the buttock region, which can sometimes radiate down the leg mimicking sciatica, often caused by spasm or tightness of the piriformis muscle irritating the nearby sciatic nerve.
- Ankle Sprains & Instability: Chiropractic care to support healing after an ankle sprain, including joint mobilization and proprioceptive exercises.
Head, Neck & Jaw Conditions
- Neck Pain (Acute & Chronic): Discomfort, stiffness, or aching in the neck, which can arise suddenly or develop over time, often impacting daily movement and potentially referring pain to the shoulders or arms.
- Dizziness & Vertigo (Cervicogenic & BPPV Management): Sensations of unsteadiness, spinning, or lightheadedness that can be related to neck problems (cervicogenic dizziness) or inner ear crystal displacement (BPPV, if trained in repositioning maneuvers).
- Tinnitus (Cervicogenic/Somatosensory): Management strategies for tinnitus when somatic (body-related) factors, particularly from the upper cervical spine or TMJ, are suspected contributors.
This list offers examples of conditions commonly addressed. If your specific concern isn't listed, please contact the clinic. Dr. Chow can assess your needs.
Dr. Tim Chow's Chiropractic Services
- Active Release Techniques (ART®): A patented, movement-based soft tissue system designed to treat problems with muscles, tendons, ligaments, fascia, and nerves by breaking down scar tissue and adhesions (practitioner certification dependent).
- Myofascial Release Technique (MRT): Manual therapy to address restrictions in the myofascial system, enhancing movement and comfort.
- 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.
- Comprehensive Chiropractic Examination: Detailed initial consultation involving a deep dive into your symptoms, lifestyle, and a full physical examination to guide your personalized care plan.
- Trigger Point Therapy: Direct manual pressure to release 'knots' in muscles that can cause local and referred pain.
Note: This list highlights some key services offered by Dr. Chow. 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).
Achieving Your Health Goals with Chiropractic Care
At Sierra Chiropractic and Massage, chiropractic care is focused on helping individuals like you achieve significant improvements in health and daily activities. Dr. Chow frequently helps patients work towards goals such as:
- Imagine being able to traveling and exploring new places without strained back muscles after yard work holding you back. Dr. Tim works closely with patients to achieve outcomes such as feeling empowered with the knowledge and tools to maintain their spinal health, often utilizing targeted spinal adjustments and supportive therapies to restore proper function.
- Many individuals visit Dr. Tim because they are tired of dealing with feeling like my lower back is locked up. Through a personalized chiropractic care plan, they often find they can achieve a marked decrease in episodes of dizziness or vertigo, leading to greater confidence and get back to enjoying important activities like dressing myself easily in the morning.
- Overcoming pain in the arch of my foot to achieve experiencing a smoother and more comfortable postpartum recovery and resume your regular exercise routine at home is a common success story at Dr. Tim's practice. Personalized care makes a real difference.
- For those whose chronic pain from a previous accident has made reading a book for hours comfortably a challenge, Dr. Tim offers a path towards enhanced athletic performance due to improved biomechanics and reduced restrictions. 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. Chow, will be designed to help you reach your specific functional and wellness objectives.
Clinic Location & Accessibility
Dr. Chow's practice is located at Sierra Chiropractic and Massage, situated in the St. Albert City neighborhood of St. Albert. The clinic is conveniently positioned near St. Albert Centre Mall, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. It is well-connected via public transportation, with St. Albert Transit (StAT) providing local and commuter routes to Edmonton. The clinic is wheelchair accessible, and street parking along with nearby paid parking lots offers convenient options for visitors. Our goal is to ensure that every patient can access quality chiropractic care with ease and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions about Chiropractic Care
- What is Sierra Chiropractic and Massage'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.
- What does a chiropractor mean by a 'subluxation' or 'joint restriction'?
- In chiropractic, a 'vertebral subluxation' or 'joint restriction' (also sometimes called a joint dysfunction) refers to a spinal or extremity joint that has lost its normal position or motion. This can irritate surrounding nerves, muscles, and other tissues, potentially leading to pain, inflammation, reduced mobility, or other symptoms. The goal of a chiropractic adjustment is to correct these restrictions and restore proper joint function.
- Is chiropractic care covered by Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) in AB?
- Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) provides limited coverage for chiropractic services for seniors (65+) and dependents (under 18), typically a set number of visits or a maximum dollar amount per benefit year, often requiring co-payment. For other adults, AHCIP generally does not cover chiropractic care in private clinics. It's important to verify your specific coverage and consider private insurance options.
- What is chiropractic care and how can it help me?
- Essentially, chiropractic care helps your body move and function better. Your Chiropractor will assess your spine and other joints for restrictions or misalignments that might be causing pain or affecting your nervous system. Through precise adjustments and other treatments, they aim to improve your mobility, reduce pain, and enhance your overall well-being, allowing you to get back to your daily activities.
- Do I need a doctor's referral to see a Chiropractor in AB?
- Chiropractors are primary contact healthcare professionals, meaning you 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 advisable to check your insurance policy for specific requirements.
- Is there parking available at or near Sierra Chiropractic and Massage?
- Yes, there is free patient parking available directly in front of our building. Alternatively, metered street parking is available on nearby streets, and paid parking options are accessible in the public parkade located within walking distance. Limited free street parking may also be available nearby.
Clinic Contact & Licensing Information
Sierra Chiropractic and Massage
30-585 St. Albert Trail Sierras of Inglewood
St. Albert, AB T8N 6G5
Phone: (780) 458-5544
Dr. Tim Chow is regulated by the Health Professions Act in AB and is a member of the College of Chiropractors of Alberta (CCOA).
License #1471.0
Verify registration with the College of Chiropractors of Alberta (CCOA): https://www.theccoa.ca/CCOA/CCOA/PublicRegister/PublicRegisterDisplay.aspx?UserID=5070
Always consult with your primary healthcare provider before starting any new treatment program.