Osteopathy

Osteopathy focuses on total body health by treating and strengthening the musculoskeletal framework while also treating the impact of the visceral systems on the entire body structure. The aim of osteopathy is to positively affect the body’s nervous, circulatory, and lymphatic systems. Osteopathic treatment takes a whole-body, or 'holistic', approach to health care. This means that practiti... Read More

Osteopathy focuses on total body health by treating and strengthening the musculoskeletal framework while also treating the impact of the visceral systems on the entire body structure. The aim of osteopathy is to positively affect the body’s nervous, circulatory, and lymphatic systems.

Osteopathic treatment takes a whole-body, or 'holistic', approach to health care. This means that practitioners concentrate on more than simply treating the problematic area. Using manual techniques, they aim to balance all systems of the body to provide overall good health and well being, meaning you may come in for pain or dysfunction in one area but receive additional treatment in other areas of your body. This is because the underlying principle in Osteopathy is that all parts of the body function together in an integrated manner - if one part is restricted, then the rest of the body must adapt and compensate; it is this philosophy and thought process that set Osteopathy apart from other disciplines.

The key principles are based upon the self-healing and self-regulating mechanisms of the body, which are impacted mechanically and physiologically through anatomy. By affecting the structure, Osteopaths can influence the function of physiological processes and help the innate self-healing and self-regulating mechanisms work better.


Kinesiology

Kinesiology is the scientific study of human movement, performance and function and may also be referred to as 'human kinetics'. The practice of kinesiology applies the science of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, psychology and neuroscience to human movement and function. Kinesiology employs evidence based scientific research and assessment to assist in the prevention and rehabilitation of in... Read More

Kinesiology is the scientific study of human movement, performance and function and may also be referred to as 'human kinetics'. The practice of kinesiology applies the science of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, psychology and neuroscience to human movement and function. Kinesiology employs evidence based scientific research and assessment to assist in the prevention and rehabilitation of injury, lifestyle diseases and other physiological conditions, along with the enhancement of human performance, in environments such as work and sport.

Kinesiologists can work closely with you to:

- prevent and treat illness or injury through appropriate exercise testing, assessement and prescription;

- improve your physical performance in sport, work and activities of daily living;

- oversee or assist with the implementation of your individual health care plan;

- assess workplace demands and provide workplace design services (ergonomics) to help prevent and/or recovery from injury; and

- provide support in rehabilitation and wellness management.

Kinesiologists work as part of interdisciplinary teams to ensure you receive integrated best-practices care for safe and effective treatment and independently in the community depending on your needs.

**Reference: British Columbia Association of Kinesiologists**

Samantha Burgis is a born-and-raised Yukoner of Kaska and Tahltan First Nation. Sam graduated from the University of British Columbia Okanagan with a Bachelor degree of Human Kinetics and a minor in Psychology. She is currently in her third year at the Canadian Academy of Osteopathy. Sam has always been fascinated by the body and mind and its incredible capabilities to heal and adapt to life.

While growing up in a smaller community, being active and participating in team sports was extremely important to Sam. She played high level soccer and has dealt with injuries her whole life. Throughout her undergraduate degree Sam had a passion in learning about Indigenous perspectives of health and wellbeing and gained a comprehensive insight into the complex social, cultural, historical, and economic factors that shape healthy living within communities. Osteopathy is a form of healthcare that she learned about through her own personal experience and interests her because it takes a whole-body, or ‘holistic’, approach. Using manual techniques, it aims to balance all systems of the body to provide overall good health and well-being.

Sam is excited for this opportunity to work with Whitehorse Osteopathy and looks forward to meeting and helping individuals in her community. Sam will be joining Whitehorse Osteopathy in May as a third-year osteopathic student, practicing as a kinesiologist (registered with BCAK) providing general manual therapy sessions.

Sam’s sessions are not eligible for coverage through osteopathy with extended benefit providers, but she is offering a reduced rate that may appeal to those without coverage.

Sam is taking on new clients and those who are looking for a general, whole-body session are recommended to book with Sam. 

Samantha Burgis is a born-and-raised Yukoner of Kaska and Tahltan First Nation. Sam graduated fro... Read More

Please note that at this time, Julie is working through her existing wait list but is no longer adding any additional clients to this list.

Curious by nature, I spontaneously tend to observe, to listen and to understand people as well as my surroundings. Originally from Montreal, I started travelling on a journey that took me to different countries and different cultures. I was fascinated to witness how life expresses itself in different places on the planet, to experience the unique relationship between humans and their environment in each place and its consequences. During that life experience period, a new curiosity arose, a new quest: the desire of a better understanding of human beings, the interrelations between the physical, physiological, emotional and the spiritual. This led me to study shiatsu massage therapy based on the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine, and to engage thereafter into rigorous osteopathic studies. These tools allowed me to better understand myself in order to be able to help others on a healing journey of their own.

I am grateful for this opportunity to serve the Whitehorse community this winter in English or French. My objective is to offer support to your healing process. As every story is unique, it will be together as a team, that we will find the right tailored path towards an improved balance, mobility and general health.

I look forward to meeting you and working together.

Please note that at this time, Julie is working through her existing wait list but is no longer a... Read More

Please note that Tana is on maternity leave effective March 1, 2024.

If you are a new client inquiring about making an initial appointment: For the months of March and April, 2024, new clients can book in with my locum, Akosua Knowles.

Beginning in May and onwards, sessions are available with Sam Burgis, student of Osteopathy. Please note that Sam’s treatment are not eligible for reimbursement through extended benefit providers and as such, she offers treatment at a reduced rate.

Another locum will be arriving in Whitehorse in July - updates to come!

I’ve always loved to travel; during one of my volunteer trips to central America in my undergraduate degree, I realized the need for a natural and sustainable way to provide healthcare to those in rural areas. My love for Osteopathy was born when I discovered some of the greatest tools I had to help my community: my hands. After a major switch in career paths from biochemistry and biomedical science to the world of holistic health care with Osteopathy, I found my true calling at the Canadian Academy of Osteopathy.

I feel privileged to have learned from my instructors at the CAO. My education was based upon learning the principles of patient-centered osteopathic care, which means I am constantly thinking through the anatomy and physiology of each individual in order to tailor my treatments based on what my patients need. I was privileged to be part of the CAO staff for over two years as an instructor for several introductory anatomy and physiology courses. My love of teaching was born alongside my love of Osteopathy and because I believe that education about one’s own body is vital to the healing process, I try my best to translate an educational experience into my treatments. My favourite part of my practice is when I can inspire and empower my patients to take their health back into their own hands.

I am proud to be part of the Whitehorse community and honoured to have the opportunity to work with so many Yukoners on their healing journey. It is my goal to educate every Yukoner on the benefits of Osteopathic treatment, one patient at a time.

I look forward to the privilege of working with you. Until then, I wish you the best in health.

Please note that Tana is on maternity leave effective March 1, 2024. If you are a new client inq... Read More

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Located at: 4137c 4 Avenue, Whitehorse
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