As a Calgary chiropractor, I use the dermal traction method with patients every day as part of a gentle, hands-on approach to nerve-related pain. I often combine this technique with chiropractic adjustments, especially when nerve irritation is involved and the issue goes beyond simple muscle tightness.
What Is the Dermal Traction Method?
The dermal traction method works by gently lifting the skin and the tissues underneath it to create space between layers. In my practice at Energize Health, I do this either by hand or using cups, depending on the area being treated and what feels most appropriate for the patient.
This lifting effect helps improve tissue movement, circulation, and how nerves move within the surrounding tissues. When nerves become irritated or restricted, even simple movements can feel painful, stiff, or limited.
How Dermal Traction Helps Nerve-Related Pain
Dermal traction isn’t just used to loosen muscles, it can also help calm sensitive or irritated nerves.
By reducing pressure and improving movement around nerves, dermal traction therapy may help with symptoms such as:
- Neck pain and back pain
- Headaches
- Tingling or nerve tension
- Stiffness or a feeling of being stuck
Many patients tell me this technique feels calming rather than aggressive which makes it especially helpful for people who do not tolerate deep pressure or forceful treatments well.
Why I Combine Dermal Traction With Chiropractic Care
I often use the dermal traction method before I adjust. When tissues are less guarded and the nervous system is calmer, care tends to feel more comfortable for the patient.
To me, chiropractic treatment is about more than joints. It is about how the spine, nervous system, and soft tissues work together. Dermal traction allows me to address nerve irritation directly while supporting better overall movement.
Every patient is different, which is why I choose techniques that match the body in front of me. The dermal traction method gives me a precise, gentle, and effective way to address nerve-related issues, helping patients move better, feel better, and recover more comfortably.
Message from our owner, Lisa, as seen in our email newsletter on July 22, 2025.
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Hi everyone!
I hope you’re all settled into summer! I always find it's such a fun and wild time of year!
In this month's… quarter's… ok-let's-be-honest-very-occasional newsletter, we wanted to take a moment to shine a light on one of our team members who you may already know: Erin Lequereux. You may remember Erin from our front desk team, and after completing 4 years of MOT education, we are very excited to welcome her to our clinical team as a Manual Osteopathic Practitioner. Erin practices at our south location and is accepting new clients!
On a personal note, I’ve been seeing Erin for a chronic shoulder/ upper back issue that started after our son was born six years ago. After just three sessions, I’ve noticed a profound shift. My shoulder is moving smoothly, in ways it hasn’t in nearly six years. It's been 4 weeks since our last session and I’m pain-free 90% of the time, compared to the near-constant discomfort I experienced before treatment. When it does flare up, I can usually just adjust my position to relieve any pain. And honestly, the relief of not being in pain all the time has been just as helpful mentally as it has been physically. Such a huge win and I'm very grateful!
If you’ve been struggling with a stubborn injury or pain, or you’re looking to complement the care you’re already receiving, I’d really encourage you to try Manual Osteopathy. Most extended health plans include coverage, and Erin’s credentials are recognized by all major insurance carriers. Sometimes a different perspective is what helps create that positive shift we're hoping for!
As always, please This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. if you have any questions, or if there is anything my team or I can help with.
Wishing you all a happy and healthy summer! We look forward to seeing you soon!
— Lisa
PS If our north clinic is more convenient for you, never fear: we have another wonderful Manual Osteopathic Practitioner, Lana, who practices at both of our locations. Here's a link to Lana's schedule at our north office if you prefer seeing us in Evanston. :)
For years, posture has been blamed as a primary cause of back pain. We’ve all heard it (and we've probably all said it): “Sit up straight!” or “Slouching will ruin your back!” Recent research is starting to paint a different picture: focusing too much on posture might not be the key to solving your back pain. Here’s why:
1. Slouching Isn’t Always Bad
Slouching can get a bad reputation, but in reality, it can sometimes *relieve* pain or discomfort. Certain injuries and conditions actually benefit from slouching, as this will take pressure off of injured or irritated tissues.
2. Posture Might Be Distracting You from the Real Issues
Payton Manning is a Super Bowl winning, NFL hall of famer who currently hosts a Monday night football commentary show, The ManningCast, with his brother Eli. During the game between the San Fransico 49ers and the New York Jets this past week, Brandon Aiyuk, wide receiver for the San Francisco 49ers, missed a few easily catchable passes, one of which was a touchdown pass. Payton blamed these mistakes on Aiyuk skipping the off-season practices and all of training camp, due to a contract dispute:
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