Frequently asked questions.
Who Can Benefit from Chiropractic Care?
Dr. Watson provides chiropractic care in Burnaby for people of all ages—whether you're managing daily tension, recovering from injury, or navigating pregnancy, postpartum, or hormonal changes. Her gentle, personalized approach helps improve movement, reduce pain, and support long-term function.
Common conditions and concerns include:
Prenatal and postnatal care, including pelvic pain and low back pain
Pelvic floor dysfunction and core weakness
Back pain, neck pain, and sciatica
Headaches, migraines, and jaw pain (TMJ)
Shoulder, hip, or knee pain
Repetitive strain injuries (e.g. carpal tunnel, tendonitis)
Postural strain from desk work, caregiving, or lifting
Pediatric chiropractic for infants and children
Plantar fasciitis, shin splints, and foot or heel pain
Whether you're active, pregnant, postpartum, or simply want to feel more comfortable in your body, Dr. Watson offers care that supports your lifestyle and goals.
What should I expect at my first visit?
Your initial visit includes a thorough review of your health history, a physical assessment, and a conversation about your goals and concerns. Dr. Watson takes the time to listen, answer your questions, and explain what’s contributing to your symptoms.
If appropriate, treatment is typically provided during the first visit. This may include hands-on chiropractic care, soft tissue techniques, or movement-based strategies tailored to your needs. You'll leave with a clear understanding of your care plan and next steps.
Appointments are always one-on-one, and everything is adapted to your comfort and pace.
Is chiropractic care safe during pregnancy?
Yes — chiropractic care is considered safe during all stages of pregnancy when provided by a trained and experienced practitioner. Dr. Watson is certified in the Webster Technique, a gentle and specific chiropractic approach designed to support pelvic balance, reduce tension, and improve comfort during pregnancy.
Techniques are always adapted to your trimester and comfort level, with special positioning and supports (like pregnancy pillows) used to ensure a safe and relaxing experience. Care can help relieve common symptoms like pelvic pain, low back pain, rib discomfort, and postural strain as your body changes.
Learn more about prenatal chiropractic care with Dr. Watson.
Can I see a chiropractor after giving birth?
Yes — chiropractic care can be especially helpful during the postpartum period. Dr. Watson provides gentle, individualized treatment to support recovery after birth, whether you're weeks or months postpartum.
You can book a visit as soon as you feel ready—some people come in within the first few weeks, while others wait until they feel more settled. Dr. Watson will meet you where you're at and adjust care to your energy level, delivery type (vaginal or cesarean), and physical needs.
Common concerns treated include pelvic pain, core weakness, rib or mid-back tension from nursing or lifting, and discomfort from birth-related changes. Postpartum care may also include pelvic floor and core rehab, body mechanics education, and strategies to help you move more comfortably as you care for your baby.
Learn more about postnatal chiropractic care in Burnaby.
How many chiropractic sessions will I need?
Treatment frequency depends on your condition, goals, and how your body responds. Some people experience relief after just a few visits, while others benefit from ongoing care to manage tension, improve mobility, or support long-term recovery.
Dr. Watson will always discuss a personalized plan with you, adjusting as needed based on your progress. Whether you’re coming in for a short-term concern or looking for maintenance care, treatment is tailored to your body, your lifestyle, and your goals.
Does chiropractic care hurt?
Dr. Watson uses gentle, evidence-informed techniques that are tailored to your comfort and condition. Some patients may feel mild soreness after treatment—similar to post-exercise stiffness—but this typically resolves within a day or two.
If you’re feeling anxious about being adjusted, Dr. Watson will walk you through what to expect and can modify techniques to ensure you feel safe and supported every step of the way.
What is the difference between a chiropractor and a physiotherapist?
Chiropractors and physiotherapists are both skilled in treating musculoskeletal conditions, but they typically approach care differently and complete different levels and types of training.
Chiropractors complete a doctoral-level education with extensive training in the assessment and treatment of the musculoskeletal and nervous systems. Their education also includes orthopedic testing, clinical diagnosis, and the use of diagnostic imaging. They use a combination of manual adjustments, joint mobilizations, soft tissue therapy, and movement-based strategies to reduce pain and improve function.
Physiotherapists typically complete a master’s degree and focus on rehabilitation through exercise, stretching, and functional retraining to support strength, mobility, and recovery.
Ultimately, the difference often comes down to the practitioner’s experience, additional training, and treatment philosophy.
Dr. Watson combines the best of both approaches, integrating chiropractic adjustments with soft tissue therapy, movement education, and targeted rehab exercises. Her treatments are comprehensive and personalized, supporting both immediate relief and long-term function.
Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?
No — you do not need a referral to see a chiropractor in British Columbia. Chiropractors are primary contact providers, meaning you can book directly without seeing your family doctor first.
Dr. Watson is trained to assess, diagnose, and determine whether your concern is musculoskeletal in nature. If your symptoms are not related to the muscles, joints, or nervous system—or if something requires further investigation—she will refer you to the appropriate healthcare provider.
Do you treat babies or children?
Yes — Dr. Watson provides gentle pediatric chiropractic care for infants and children. Treatment is always age-appropriate and focused on comfort, safety, and development.
For babies, care may help with issues like feeding difficulties, head preference, torticollis, or tension from birth. For toddlers and older children, chiropractic care can support posture, movement patterns, and growing bodies — especially during active or developmental stages.
Appointments are relaxed, involve light touch and movement, and are tailored to your child’s needs. Dr. Watson always takes time to explain what she’s doing and to ensure both you and your child feel at ease.
What should I wear to my chiropractic appointment?
Wear comfortable, flexible clothing that allows for movement. Athletic wear, leggings, or loose-fitting pants and a t-shirt are great options. Avoid dresses, skirts, or restrictive clothing if possible.
If Dr. Watson needs to access a specific area (like the shoulder, hip, or mid-back), she’ll let you know, and towels or draping will always be used to ensure your privacy and comfort.
If you’re pregnant or postpartum, clothing that accommodates your changing body and allows for easy positioning on the table is ideal.