Dr. Zachary Ward – Chiropractor | Sherwood Park, AB

Dr. Zachary Ward is a dedicated Chiropractor practicing at Full Spectrum Chiropractic in Sherwood Park, AB. Zachary is committed to providing high-quality, patient-centered care that aligns with the standards set by the College of Chiropractors of Alberta (CCOA). His approach emphasizes a comprehensive assessment and individualized treatment plans to address a broad spectrum of neuromusculoskeletal conditions, focusing not only on spinal health but also on promoting overall well-being. Dr. Ward’s goal is to help patients of all ages—ranging from infants to seniors—achieve better health outcomes through natural and non-invasive chiropractic interventions.

With a solid educational background, Dr. Zachary Ward completed his Doctor of Chiropractic degree. His clinical experience includes working with diverse patient populations, which has strengthened his ability to deliver evidence-based chiropractic care. Dr. Ward continually updates his skills and knowledge through ongoing professional development, ensuring that his practice incorporates the latest techniques and research findings in chiropractic medicine.

Dr. Zachary Ward’s practice philosophy revolves around promoting natural healing and optimal body function. He strives to help the Sherwood Park community improve their health and vitality through personalized chiropractic care. Dr. Ward offers his services exclusively in English, ensuring clear communication and understanding with his patients.

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

Shoulder, Arm & Hand Conditions

• Frozen Shoulder (Adhesive Capsulitis): A condition characterized by significant stiffness, pain, and progressive loss of range of motion in the shoulder joint, making everyday tasks difficult.
• Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (Conservative Management): Helping to relieve pressure on the median nerve to reduce hand and wrist discomfort associated with carpal tunnel syndrome.
• Nerve Entrapments (e.g., Thoracic Outlet, Cubital Tunnel): Identifying and treating sources of nerve irritation in the upper limb to alleviate radiating symptoms and improve sensation.
• Repetitive Strain Injuries (RSI) of the Upper Limb: Pain, aching, numbness, or other symptoms in the muscles, nerves, and tendons of the arm, wrist, or hand resulting from repetitive tasks, forceful exertions, or awkward postures.

Back & Spine Conditions

• Facet Joint Syndrome / Facet Pain: Treatment for facet joint irritation or 'locking,' aiming to restore normal joint mechanics and reduce associated pain and stiffness.
• Sciatica & Lumbar Radiculopathy (Radiating Leg Pain): Management of sciatic nerve pain and other forms of radiating leg symptoms through chiropractic care aimed at relieving pressure on the affected nerve.
• Spondylolisthesis (Lower Grades): A condition where one vertebra slips forward over the one below it, potentially causing back pain, leg pain, or nerve compression (conservative management for lower grades).
• Spinal Stenosis (Cervical or Lumbar - Symptomatic): Helping to alleviate symptoms like leg or arm pain associated with a narrowed spinal canal through chiropractic care and exercise.

Hip, Leg & Foot Conditions

• Achilles Tendinopathy: Helping you recover from Achilles tendinitis/tendinosis and return to activities like running or jumping without pain.
• Plantar Fasciitis / Heel & Foot Pain: Sharp pain in the heel or bottom of the foot, especially with the first steps in the morning or after periods of rest, due to inflammation or degeneration of the plantar fascia.
• 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.
• Ankle Sprains & Instability: Pain, swelling, and potential ongoing weakness or giving way in the ankle due to stretching or tearing of ankle ligaments, often from a twist or roll.

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

• Functional Movement Screening (e.g., FMS™, SFMA™): Utilizing screens like FMS™ or SFMA™ to analyze your movement quality and pinpoint areas contributing to pain or predisposing you to injury (practitioner certification dependent).
• Surface Electromyography (sEMG) Scan: Non-invasive scanning technology used to measure electrical activity in muscles, helping to identify areas of abnormal muscle tone or imbalance along the spine (if offered).
• Postural Assessment & Correction Planning: Detailed analysis of your standing and sitting posture to identify imbalances and provide targeted advice and exercises for correction and pain prevention.
• Myofascial Release Technique (MRT): Manual therapy to address restrictions in the myofascial system, enhancing movement and comfort.
• 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.
• Radiographic (X-ray) Imaging & Analysis: Utilizing X-ray imaging, if necessary, to get a clear picture of your spinal health and guide precise treatment.

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

• Dr. Zachary understands how frustrating difficulty bending over to pick things up can be. By aiming for feeling a significant release of chronic tension and stress held in their body, chiropractic care can empower you to return to activities like achieving a full night's deep, restful, and uninterrupted sleep with renewed confidence.
• Overcoming painful thumbs or wrists making tasks difficult to achieve improved core stability, leading to better support for their spine and reduced strain and resume sitting comfortably through a movie at the cinema is a common success story at Dr. Zachary's practice. Personalized care makes a real difference.
• Many individuals visit Dr. Zachary because they are tired of dealing with that waddling feeling and hip pain during pregnancy. Through a personalized chiropractic care plan, they often find they can achieve being able to sit for longer periods comfortably, whether for work or leisure and get back to enjoying important activities like working productively and comfortably at your standing desk all day.
• Dr. Zachary frequently helps people find solutions for the limitations imposed by headaches starting from my neck base. The common goal is participating more fully in family life and social engagements without pain being a constant distraction, enabling a confident return to valued life activities, for instance, effortlessly lifting your toddler without that familiar twinge in your back, with greater comfort and ease.

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

Full Spectrum Chiropractic, where Dr. Ward practices, is situated in a central location within Sherwood Park. The clinic is conveniently positioned in the heart of the Sherwood Park neighborhood, making it easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. It is close to local community services and pharmacies, providing added convenience for patients. The clinic is accessible via multiple public transit routes, ensuring easy access for those using bus or other transportation options. Our clinic is wheelchair accessible. Ample parking is generally accessible close to the clinic entrance.

What are the typical phases of chiropractic care?

Chiropractic care often progresses through a few general phases: 1. **Initial Intensive/Relief Care:** This phase focuses on reducing your immediate pain, inflammation, and discomfort. Visits may be more frequent during this stage. 2. **Corrective/Rehabilitative Care:** Once symptoms are under control, the focus shifts to correcting underlying joint dysfunction, improving muscle strength and flexibility, and restoring normal movement patterns. Visit frequency usually decreases. 3. **Wellness/Maintenance Care (Optional):** Some patients choose periodic visits to maintain their improvements, prevent recurrences, and support overall spinal health and well-being. Your Chiropractor will discuss what's appropriate for your specific situation and goals.

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. Coverage typically includes a set number of visits or a maximum dollar amount per benefit year for seniors (65+) and dependents (under 18). For other adults, AHCIP generally does not cover chiropractic care in private clinics. Patients should verify their coverage with AHCIP and consult with their private insurance providers for extended benefits.

Do chiropractors only treat back pain?

While chiropractors are well known for effectively treating back pain, their expertise extends to a wide range of neuromusculoskeletal conditions affecting the entire body. This includes issues with the neck, shoulders, hips, knees, feet, as well as headaches, and problems related to muscles, ligaments, tendons, and nerves throughout the extremities.

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

In Alberta, chiropractors 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 coverage purposes. Patients should check their insurance policies for specific requirements.

Does Full Spectrum Chiropractic offer direct billing to private insurance companies?

Yes, Full Spectrum Chiropractic offers direct billing to most major private insurance providers such as Sun Life, Manulife, Blue Cross, Green Shield, and others. Patients are advised to bring their insurance card and contact their insurer to confirm their coverage. The patient remains responsible for any co-payments or amounts not covered by their insurance plan.

How long do chiropractic appointments usually last?

Initial visits typically last about an hour as they include a comprehensive assessment. Follow-up treatment sessions are usually shorter, often ranging from 15 to 20 minutes. Dr. Ward will advise on the appropriate appointment length based on your specific needs.

Full Spectrum Chiropractic
110, 849 Premier Way
Sherwood Park, AB T8H 0V2

Phone: (780) 464-1029

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

License #2687.0

Verify registration with the College of Chiropractors of Alberta (CCOA): https://www.theccoa.ca/CCOA/CCOA/PublicRegister/PublicRegisterDisplay.aspx?UserID=8780

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