There are many channels called meridians that flow through the whole body and by accessing particular points along these channels it promotes flow and circulation to tissues, muscles, and organ systems. Acupuncture can increase endorphins for pain and can help release feel good hormones. It supports the endocrine system and helps to bring balance to a person that may not be in harmony with themselves and their environment.

Acupuncture is very useful postpartum for muscle tension from holding baby and sleeping in strange positions. It can be helpful for low milk supply and is very good for reducing stress and overwhelm. It can help balance hormones and energy as well.

Acupuncture is not painful, the needles are very thin and are inserted gently and with great care.

Yes, our practitioners are very skilled in fertility acupuncture and can help you through any stage of your fertility journey.

Acupuncture and cupping can really help with the back/neck and arm tension postpartum.

Often the drop or change in hormones and possible loss of blood can cause a person to not feel themselves at all. Patients feel more balanced and more themselves after a treatment.

Moxibustion (a warming technique made from a herb called mugwort) is placed over your belly button. We have seen this work many times, it's strange but kind of amazing!

As soon as you feel ready to leave the house! Patients who have urine retention need to come in right away. Partner or caregiver can come as well and be with the baby as we treat mom. If baby needs mom, we can absolutely work around that. Sometimes mom is breastfeeding with needles in, we do what we can :)

Acupuncture and moxibustion can help encourage baby to turn head down.

We start around 36 weeks doing weekly sessions. We work on all your issues you may be experiencing such as hip/back pain, carpal tunnel, insomnia, congestion, swelling and more. And we start to do acupuncture to help position baby better and encourage deepening into the birth canal as well as ripening the cervix. We have had a few patients whose waters have broken in the clinic or on their way home from acupuncture!

Postpartum, you can come in to see your chiropractor whenever you feel comfortable doing so. We typically recommend coming in whenever you feel ready to leave the house. Different bodies need different amounts of time to heal and recover postpartum, but we are here to help whether is a few days after delivery or a few months. Postnatal chiropractic services are gentle and can be helpful in the healing process. Baby chiropractic care can be helpful if your little one is having trouble turning their head to latch or is fussing in certain positions. A baby wellness check is a great option as well to keep them balanced as they grow and develop!

Absolutely! Seeing a chiropractor during pregnancy can help prevent low back, pelvic, hip and pubic pain, or manage those symptoms if you already have them. Prenatal chiropractic care uses gentle techniques to balance the pelvic joints, muscles, and ligaments as well as help the rest of your body move better and feel better. It is safe to see a chiropractor at any stage in pregnancy.

Both chiropractic and physiotherapy compliment and work really well together. Chiropractic focuses on balancing the pelvis, spine ,and other parts of the body from head to toe through various manual therapy techniques and functional rehabilitation. By freeing up movement in the joints or areas of dysfunction it can work really well when working with physio and physio is often recommended with treatment!

While chiropractic is best known as an effective treatment for lower back pain, it can also be used to effectively treat the following common issues:

• Postpartum postural stress
• Upper to mid back pain
• Neck pain / tension
• Headaches
• Jaw pain / clicking
• Arm pain including shoulder, elbow, wrist or hand injuries
• Leg pain including hip, knee, ankle or foot injuries
• Sciatica
• Nerve pain / radiculopathy
• Disc herniations
• Muscle strains and joint sprains
• Tendinopathies / Tendinitis

And many more!

Most of us are familiar with the sound of someone “popping” or “cracking” their knuckles. This “pop” is known as a cavitation and can sometimes be heard during chiropractic adjustments. What actually causes this sound is the rapid formation of bubbles within a joint when it is stretched. Nothing is actually popping or cracking; it’s just bubbles. Because of this, the noise itself isn’t necessary for a successful chiropractic adjustment. With low-force adjusting techniques there is often no joint noise at all.

At MOSS, chiropractic treatment is unique to each individual. Your chiropractor will work with you to create an individualized plan based on your unique injury/concern, your goals and preferences, our clinical expertise, and the current research. Treatments will often include joint adjustments and/or mobilizations, soft tissue (muscles, ligaments, tendons and fascia) release, functional rehabilitation, home care recommendations and education.

Yes, anyone can come in for chiropractic care. You do not have to be prenatal or postpartum.

Chiropractic can help with any imbalances that may be present. This can show up in movement patterns, preference to look or turn one way, fussing in certain positions, feeding challenges, tongue ties, head shape concerns, or not reaching developmental milestones. A wellness check can be a great way to check in even if there are no concerns as it can be beneficial as baby is growing and developing. It may also be beneficial to have a baby assessed during the early stages of development to ensure they are hitting all their milestones. You don’t have to bring them in because you see a visible issue.

Chiropractic is incredibly gentle and safe for little ones. Only finger tip gentle pressure is used to release areas of tension (no more tension than you would press over your eyelid). Often positions, stretches or things you can do at home are also recommended.

Come in whenever you feel ready to leave the house. Chiropractic can be incredibly healing postpartum so you can come in anytime postpartum but in the early stages getting rest, staying warm, and nourishment are super important too. So rest up and come in whenever it feels right for you!

The fear of judgment can feel so heavy. Noticing this feeling is important and then remember that you are in control of what, when, and to whom you disclose that you are working with a counsellor. This fear of judgment is also a common theme that can be explored in therapy. In Canada, almost one-quarter (23%) of mothers who recently gave birth reported feelings consistent with either post-partum depression or an anxiety disorder." (Statistics Canada, Maternal Mental Health in Canada, 2018/2019). How you feel, connect, and live are the most important thing.

When it comes to pregnancy and postpartum care the sooner the better. Preventative counselling (during pregnancy or even if you are planning to become pregnant) is found to reduce the occurrence and severity of postpartum depression and anxiety (Maternal Mental Health NOW, 2017). With that said, it is important that you reach out on your own terms and when you feel ready. Whether you are planning a pregnancy, are pregnant, are in a postpartum period or beyond counselling can be a positive, supportive, and healing experience for many.

Not knowing where to begin is a common experience. This is part of what a mental health professional will help you with. We support and guide you in determining where and how to start. Working with a mental health professional can help with prevention and treatment.

There is no qualifier for coming to counselling. If the idea of a warm and inviting place to process life's ups and downs sounds appealing to you (or even if it does not but you wonder if it might be helpful), counselling could be a great idea. Each therapeutic relationship is unique, and no matter your concerns, we are here to support you!

This is a common question for individuals new to counselling. It is our job as your therapists to provide a warm and safe space to process your experiences. As a part of that, we can support clients by asking questions and deepening conversations.

Individual, couples, telehealth, and in-person.

Postpartum support can significantly improve mental health by providing a safe space to discuss emotions, addressing concerns, and offering coping strategies for the challenges of new parenthood.

Absolutely! We love having the little ones come in with your appointments. We can accommodate any situation.

We have lovely Body Cushion System that makes it very comfortable to lie face down. Allowing the cushions to grow with you during and after your pregnancy. Wonderful for postpartum as well!

Absolutely not. It’s our #1 goal to make sure everyone is comfortable through the whole massage treatment. We use proper draping techniques. Only the areas that were working on are properly exposed. We’re very careful and respectful of everyone’s body and comfort levels. If it is your preference, we can massage while fully covered with sheets.

You will need to be able to communicate with your therapist during the massage. They may check in with you about the pressure, or change the position you are laying in. Beyond that it is up to you! Some clients enjoy chatting, some want to talk as little as possible. If you aren't in the mood for conversation you can let your therapist know before the massage begins.

Your therapist will advise you on this based on your individual treatment needs. Generally speaking you can receive massage as often as is you need to keep your body feeling great.

Yes!

Yes — it is important for your therapist to know that you are pregnant.

While direct contact will yield the best possible result, it is possible to get a great massage even when fully clothed. If you undress completely our therapists will use their draping techniques to maintain your privacy during treatment. Three piece suit or birthday suit — it's up to you!

Generally speaking, massages should feel good! Though deep pressure can border on painful, it should also feel relieving. There are some therapeutic massage techniques which can be intense, but your therapist will always communicate with you throughout such techniques to ensure that it is well within your pain tolerance. You can and should always let your therapist know if the pressure or techniques are painful or in - we want to give you the best massage for your body and your feedback is important.

Let it flow, this is a milk safe zone!

Absolutely! Strengthening and optimizing pelvic floor function prior to the procedure can facilitate postoperative recovery. While the incision for a C-section is not directly related to the pelvic floor muscles, the surgery and changes in posture during pregnancy can affect pelvic floor function indirectly. Pelvic physiotherapy can help address any musculoskeletal issues, discomfort, or pain that may arise postoperatively. We work on scar tissue management techniques to promote optimal healing of the C-section incision. This may include scar massage, stretching exercises, and strategies to improve scar mobility and reduce adhesions. Pelvic physiotherapists can provide guidance on gradually reintroducing physical activity and exercise after a C-section, taking into account your individual recovery timeline and pelvic floor health. They can help you safely progress with exercises that support pelvic floor function and overall recovery.

No this is not required to see a pelvic physiotherapist.

Yes, pelvic physiotherapy can be safe and beneficial during pregnancy to address issues such as pelvic girdle pain, urinary incontinence, or preparation for childbirth through pelvic floor muscle training. However, it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment during pregnancy. If you have been diagnosed with Placenta Previa or have been prescribed pelvic rest by your care provider, internal examinations are not performed. Treatment is still recommended, but we take an external approach.

Both prenatal and postpartum pelvic physiotherapy are very helpful to help you prepare for and recover from birth. Seeing a pelvic physiotherapist throughout your pregnancy will help you learn optimal posture and alignment, movement patterns, breath work, proper relaxation and activation of your deep core and pelvic floor muscles, and progressive strengthening exercises as your body changes. It can also help you manage and prevent bothersome symptoms such as pain, pressure, and/or urinary leakage. At 35-36 weeks of pregnancy, your therapist will teach you helpful labour and delivery preparation techniques such as; perineal stretching and massage, mobility exercises to optimize labour, pushing and breathing strategies, as well as optimal birthing positions to help you feel prepared for birth and optimize your postpartum recovery.

Your pelvic physiotherapist will start the session with a thorough discussion to review your medical history and understand your symptoms, reason for seeking treatment, and goals. There will be an explanation of the pelvic floor muscle anatomy and how the assessment will be performed. For the internal assessment, the client will be in a comfortable position with a drape sheet over their lap. With consent, the therapist will insert 1 to 2 gloved digit(s) beyond the labia majora or anal verge. The assessment is gentle and lubrication is used for comfort. The therapist will be assessing the pelvic floor muscles for tenderness, tone/tension, and the ability to contract and relax, among any other tests required based on your individualized needs. Your comfort level is the primary importance and will always be respected during the assessment.

Yes, we assess and treat Diastasis Recti. Education regarding management, treatment, and an individually tailored progressive exercise program will be provided based on your needs.

Yes, you can attend your pelvic health physiotherapy appointment when you have your period. Internal pelvic assessment and treatment can still be done without limitation. Of course, your physiotherapist will always ensure you are comfortable during your session and treatment techniques can remain external for the session if you choose.

Pelvic physiotherapy, also known as pelvic floor physiotherapy or pelvic rehabilitation therapy, is a specialized branch of physiotherapy focused on assessing and treating conditions related to the pelvic floor muscles, which support the bladder, bowel, and sexual function.

Pelvic physiotherapy can address a range of conditions including urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, pelvic pain (including vulvodynia, dyspareunia, and coccydynia), bowel dysfunction (such as constipation or fecal incontinence), pelvic floor dysfunction following childbirth, and pelvic floor muscle weakness or tightness.

If you're experiencing symptoms such as urinary leakage, pelvic pain, difficulty emptying your bladder or bowels, pain during sexual intercourse, or issues related to pelvic organ prolapse, consulting with a pelvic physiotherapist can help determine if pelvic physiotherapy is appropriate for your condition.

Our naturopathic doctors are able to review any past or recent blood work you’ve had with your medical doctor that you provide through the myHealth Records portal and may recommend further blood work or other specialized testing including:

DUTCH HORMONE TESTING

DUTCH is an acronym for Dried Urine Test for Comprehensive Hormones. This test is a comprehensive analysis of your adrenal and sex hormones using easy-to-collect dried urine samples. This panel includes an in-depth evaluation of your hormones and how they break down in your body, along with the oxidative stress marker, 8-Hydroxy-2-deoxyguanosine (8OHdG) and other organic acid markers. The DUTCH test can be helpful in understanding how your hormone levels are related to symptoms of PMS, menopause, acne, libido, fatigue and insomnia. Understanding the ratios of your various forms of estrogens, DHEA and testosterone may be the key in sorting out the symptoms you’ve been experiencing.

IgG FOOD SENSITIVITY TEST

This is a simple in-office finger prick test to assess delayed sensitivity reactions to specific foods. While this test will not diagnose or confirm a food allergy, it is a helpful test to help you discover if any foods you are eating might be leading to increasing inflammation in the body and contributing to symptoms such as bloating, IBS, joint pain, eczema, acne, headaches and weight issues.

SIBO 3 HOUR BREATH TEST

If you are experiencing symptoms of IBS including bloating, constipations, diarrhea, gas and heartburn, your naturopathic doctor may recommend this at-home breath test to measure levels of hydrogen and methane. It can determine the presence of an overgrowth of bacteria in the small intestine called SIBO (Small Intestinal Bacterial Overgrowth). There is a 24-hour preparation protocol for this test, including a 12-hour restricted diet followed by a 12-hour fast.

COMPREHENSIVE STOOL TESTING

Basic Stool Testing: This digestion function test’s profile helps pinpoint the causes of gastrointestinal symptoms and chronic systemic conditions, and measures key markers of digestion, absorption and inflammation. This is explained in the office, and is a take home stool sample.

Complete Stool Testing with Parasitology: This more comprehensive stool test is an innovative and clinically-applicable stool profile, utilizing sensitive biochemical assays and microscopy to detect and assess the status of pathogens, viruses, parasites and bacteria that may be contributing to acute or chronic gastrointestinal symptoms and disease. doctorsdata.com

Metabolomix Testing: Nutritional testing provides a more complete assessment compared to what standard labs offer. Personalized recommendations for amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, digestive support, and other nutrients are provided. Testing can also reveal toxic exposures and measure your body’s ability to neutralize those toxins.Collected at home, it requires a urine sample and if your practitioner orders add-on testing, a blood spot finger stick.

The frequency of treatment will depend on your specific health condition and its severity. Generally for acute conditions, you can receive weekly treatments for 3-6 weeks. For general health maintenance, we often recommend every 6-12 weeks. Our naturopathic doctors will assess your health needs and recommend an individualized treatment schedule for you.

IV therapy is generally well tolerated, and can even be relaxing for some people! Everyone's comfort level with needles varies, but our naturopathic doctors will take the time to assure you are comfortable.

After an intake to assure IV therapy is the right treatment for you, they will help determine a safe and appropriate IV formula catered to your health needs. Please note that having an initial IV visit does not guarantee IV treatment as our naturopathic doctors need to fully assess that IV therapy is warranted for your specific health conditions.

Yes, nothing makes our day more than meeting babies, toddlers, and kids of all ages. We have toys and are set up to accommodate your little ones during appointments and IVs.

Yes! Our naturopathic doctors love working with all members of the family, including wee ones. From digestion and skin issues, to nutrition and growth optimization - they love seeing kids of all ages!

We love seeing any and all patients of all health statuses and backgrounds. We have special interest and experience during the pregnancy and young family ages - meaning fertility, pregnancy, and especially postpartum. We love meeting and treating little ones, and partners too. Often, we end up treating the whole family, aunties/uncles and grandparents too!

Naturopathic Doctors, similar to conventional medical doctors, have foundations in diagnosis, physical examination, and understanding of anatomy and physiology. The main difference is our choice of treatment and the approach to supporting your overall health and well-being. Naturopathic doctors use natural modalities instead of pharmaceuticals, including botanical medicine, nutraceuticals, diet and nutrition, lifestyle changes, IV therapy, intramuscular injections, homeopathy, and acupuncture. Our main goal is to treat the root cause of disease. We thrive in prioritizing individualized medicine.

Coming to see an LC can help look at the root cause of a feeding issue which can help increase baby's weight. Working as a team with the care provider, parents and LC can give various perspectives and interventions to ensure baby is gaining weight appropriately.

Yes! Going over bottle feeding tips as well as pumping or weaning are all concerns that an LC can help with.

From the time you find out your pregnant until you are fully done weaning your baby or toddler and are done lactating. The optimal time to come for an initial visit is when you are 32-38 weeks pregnant to go over some basic breastfeeding information to start out your journey.

A lactation consultant can help with a variety of breastfeeding issues and questions. From hand expressing to pumping to latching and positioning a lactation consultant can help make breastfeeding a positive experience.