MALS: How and why did you decide to become a Chiropractor and practice in Vermont?

HJ: I have been under Chiropractic care since I was a child and always valued the benefits I gained from it. While I was in college I considered going to medical school but found that the medical doctors I have seen in my life see their patients sporadically and follow-up tended to be lacking. They also have limited tools to manage musculoskeletal pain. I wanted to be part of a profession where I could form relationships with my patients, know the outcomes of our work, and know them by name if I came upon them in the grocery store. I think Chiropractic offers an excellent option for patients in chronic pain, those with acute injuries, and those interested in improving their overall health. It also gives me the perfect venue to establish lasting relationships. I grew up in New York State but fell in love with Vermont during my four years at UVM.  I returned to New York for Chiropractic School but I had fallen in love with Vermont and with my husband, so we returned to Vermont upon my graduation. I began my practice in Barre City in 2004 then moved to Montpelier in July of 2005. I have loved every minute of my time in Vermont and am proud to now call it my home. 

  

MALS: How did your practice come to have a focus on women and children?

HJ: When I was in school I had a teacher who specialized in prenatal chiropractic and I learned the great benefits of it from her. Then, my first year in practice I was pregnant with my daughter and found great relief from my lower back pain with regular chiropractic care. Becoming a mother has brought my focus to the wonderful process of bringing life into the world and I feel blessed to be of comfort to mothers during this time.

 

MALS: How does chiropractic care support pregnant women, moms, and kids?

HJ: Chiropractic supports pregnant women by helping the spine to handle the new stresses placed upon it by a shifting center of gravity and increased weight bearing. Adjustments to the pelvis can help decrease strain on the uterus, allowing it to expand and thus allowing the baby to assume an optimal position for birth.  

Mothers of young children tend to have a lot of neck and upper back pain due to carrying children, typically always on one side, as well as bending and lifting children in and out of car seats. Muscle release and adjustments can help balance out some of those stresses. 

People rarely consider the birth process as a trauma to a child, however lengthy labors can put a lot of pressure/strain on an infant’s neck and can change the motion of the joints in the spine. Having regular spinal check-ups can help correct these issues before they turn into longstanding problems. The way we diaper our children by lifting their legs repeatedly places a lot of strain on the middle and lower back. Adjusting these areas can limit the possibility of pain in that region later in life. Chiropractic is also helpful for some children with colic, ear infections, digestive difficulties and more. Adjustments to the spine help to stimulate the nerves that control the bowels and can soothe them, and there are techniques we employ to help drain the inner ear and alleviate pain and pressure from ear infections. Stimulating these nerves can also boost the immune system, helping children and adults fight infection. 

 

MALS: What is unique about the care you provide for your clients?

HJ: The thing that sets me apart is that I incorporate massage work into my practice. Everyone gets a 15-minute focused massage prior to the adjustment to relieve muscular tension and help the body hold adjustments better. It's also a nice time for relaxation that many people don't have built into their lives. In addition, I just love what I do. I am passionate about my work, about helping people feel better and encouraging people to live healthier, more active lives. 

 

MALS: What services do you offer and where are you located?

HJ: I offer traditional Chiropractic adjustments along with massage, ultrasound, and other modalities when needed. I am certified in the Webster Technique for the treatment of pregnant women. I also offer custom orthotics to support the feet and spine when indicated. I share an office with Joshua Singer, licensed acupuncturist and Kirsten Wiley, certified massage therapist. We often co-treat patients to offer more support and guidance. We are located in the Professional Office Condominiums at 338 River Street in Montpelier, and can be reached at 802-225-8958.

 

MALS: If you could tell people one more thing about Chiropractic care what would it be?

HJ: I would tell people that Chiropractic works. Adjusting the spine helps to stimulate the nerves that control your entire body. Chiropractic is non-invasive, gentle, and can help improve your overall health. I choose chiropractic for myself and my family to keep us functioning and feeling our best.