How to Find the Best Chiropractor in North Vancouver: Why Mountain Health and Performance Stands Out
When dealing with musculoskeletal pain or discomfort, finding the right chiropractor can make all the difference in your recovery. Whether you’re suffering from back pain, neck issues, headaches, or sports injuries, the right chiropractor can help you restore mobility, reduce pain, and improve overall wellness. In North Vancouver, BC, there’s no shortage of chiropractic clinics, but how do you choose the best one for your needs?
In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the essential factors to consider when selecting a chiropractor, and we’ll highlight why the chiropractors at Mountain Health and Performance stand out as a top choice for North Vancouver residents.
1. Credentials and Experience Matter
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a chiropractor is their credentials and experience. Chiropractors are highly trained professionals, but the level of expertise can vary depending on their education, experience, and specialization. In North Vancouver, you’ll want to look for a chiropractor who has the right qualifications and a proven track record of successful treatments.
At Mountain Health and Performance, our chiropractors are licensed and all of them have 10+ years of experience in helping patients with a wide range of conditions, including:
Chronic pain (back, neck, joint pain)
Sports injuries
Postural issues
Headaches and migraines
Sciatica
Our team is made up of highly skilled practitioners with diverse backgrounds in chiropractic care. Whether you're looking for pain relief or long-term wellness strategies, our team brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.
2. Personalized Treatment Plans
Every patient is unique, and so are their health challenges. The best chiropractor will offer a personalized treatment plan tailored to your specific needs. This means that they take the time to understand your pain, your lifestyle, and your goals before recommending any treatments.
At Mountain Health and Performance, we take a patient-centered approach. Our chiropractors take the time to fully assess your condition, listen to your concerns, and develop a customized treatment plan designed to not only relieve your current pain but also prevent future injuries. We combine chiropractic adjustments with evidence-based therapies such as shockwave therapy, Class IV laser therapy, and rehabilitative exercises to ensure your long-term recovery.
3. Reputation and Patient Reviews
What do other patients have to say about the chiropractor you’re considering? Patient reviews and testimonials provide valuable insight into the quality of care a chiropractor offers. A reputable chiropractor will have a history of satisfied patients who have experienced relief and positive outcomes from their treatments.
For over 30 years, Mountain Health and Performance has built a strong reputation in North Vancouver for providing exceptional chiropractic care. Our clinic consistently receives positive feedback from patients who praise our holistic approach, compassionate care, and effective treatments. We are proud of the trust we’ve earned in our community and work hard every day to maintain our patients’ confidence in our services. Check online platforms, such as Google Reviews for feedback and recommendations.
4. Range of Services Offered
A great chiropractor offers more than just spinal adjustments. Look for a clinic that provides a comprehensive range of services to treat a variety of conditions. This ensures you can receive well-rounded care, whether you need soft tissue treatments, rehabilitation exercises, or lifestyle coaching to prevent future injuries.
At Mountain Health and Performance, we offer a full suite of chiropractic and wellness services, including:
Spinal adjustments to treat joint dysfunction, pain, and misalignments
Massage therapy to relax muscles, improve circulation, and reduce tension
Shockwave therapy for targeted pain relief and muscle and tendon recovery
Class IV laser therapy for deep tissue healing and inflammation reduction
Rehabilitation programs to strengthen muscles and prevent future injuries
Custom orthotics for postural/biomechanical correction
Custom fit pillows for improving sleep ergonomics and reducing headaches, neck pain, shoulder pain and upper back pain
By offering multiple treatment modalities under one roof, we ensure that our patients receive the most effective, well-rounded care possible.
5. Holistic and Preventative Approach
The best chiropractors not only focus on treating the symptoms of pain but also address the underlying causes to prevent future issues. A holistic approach to care can help you maintain long-term health and wellness, avoiding recurring pain or injury.
At Mountain Health and Performance, we believe in a holistic approach to chiropractic care. We don’t just treat the immediate pain; we also look at your lifestyle, posture, and movement patterns to address the root causes of your discomfort. Our chiropractors provide prevention strategies, including posture correction, ergonomic advice, stretching, and exercises, to ensure that you stay pain-free in the long run.
6. Comfort and Convenience
Lastly, the best chiropractor will make you feel comfortable and at ease throughout your treatment process. Consider factors like the clinic environment, office hours, staff professionalism, and the overall patient experience.
Mountain Health and Performance offers a welcoming and friendly clinic environment where you can feel relaxed and confident in your care. Our North Vancouver clinic is easily accessible, and we offer convenient appointment scheduling to accommodate your busy lifestyle. Whether you need a same-day appointment or a follow-up visit, we make sure that your chiropractic care fits seamlessly into your routine.
7. Insurance Coverage and Payment Options
Check if the chiropractor accepts your health insurance plan and if they do direct billing on your behalf. Understanding the payment options, including out-of-pocket costs, will help you plan your chiropractic care budget. Also, check to see if the chiropractic clinic accepts ICBC and WCB claims as not chiropractors do. This could potentially put you, the patient, at risk of paying more out of pocket for treatment that should otherwise be covered by these agencies.
Why Choose Mountain Health and Performance in North Vancouver?
Choosing the right chiropractor in North Vancouver is an important decision, and at Mountain Health and Performance, we’re here to make that decision easier for you. Here’s why we’re the best choice for your chiropractic needs:
Experienced chiropractors with years of expertise in treating a wide variety of conditions.
Personalized care plans designed to address your specific needs and health goals.
A comprehensive range of services, including spinal adjustments, massage therapy, shockwave therapy, and more.
A holistic approach focused on long-term health and injury prevention.
Positive patient reviews and a reputation for excellent care in the North Vancouver community.
If you're ready to take the next step in your journey to better health, book a consultation with one of our expert chiropractors at Mountain Health and Performance today. Let us help you find relief and achieve lasting wellness.
Dr. Matt Wentzell
BKin, MSc, DC, FRCCSS(C)
North Vancouver Sport Chiropractor
How Underfueling Can Lead to Injury During Training: Nutrition Guidelines for Athletes
Why Fueling Matters for Athletes
Whether you're training for a marathon, hitting the gym, or practicing your sport daily, one factor can make or break your progress: fueling your body properly. Unfortunately, many athletes unintentionally underfuel, leading to fatigue, poor performance, and injury.
In this blog post, we’ll explain the connection between underfueling and injury risk and offer evidence-based guidelines for carbohydrate, protein, and fluid intake to keep you healthy and performing at your best.
What Is Underfueling?
Underfueling occurs when your energy intake (food and drink) doesn’t meet the demands of your training and daily activity. It can be intentional (e.g., dieting) or unintentional (e.g., busy schedule, poor appetite, or lack of nutrition knowledge).
How Underfueling Increases Injury Risk
If you consistently underfuel, your body won’t have the resources it needs to recover and adapt to training. This increases your injury risk in several key ways:
Increased risk of stress fractures due to impaired bone remodeling
Muscle breakdown and delayed recovery from lack of protein and energy
Weakened immune system, making it harder to stay consistent with training
Hormonal disruption (like reduced estrogen or testosterone), which affects both performance and recovery
Athletes who underfuel are more prone to overuse injuries like tendinitis, bone stress injuries (BSIs), and muscle strains.
Nutrition Guidelines to Prevent Injury
To stay strong and resilient during training, you need to focus on three key areas: carbohydrates, protein, and hydration.
1. Carbohydrates: Your Primary Source of Energy
Why they matter: Carbohydrates fuel high-intensity workouts and support glycogen stores. Low-carb diets can lead to fatigue and muscle breakdown.
Daily Carbohydrate Recommendations:
Training Load / Carb Intake (g/kg body weight)
Light (<1 hr/day) = 3–5 g/kg
Moderate (1–3 hrs/day) = 5–7 g/kg
High (>3 hrs/day)7–10+ g/kg
Example: A 70 kg athlete training 2 hours daily should consume 350–490g of carbs per day.
Best sources: Whole grains, fruits, starchy vegetables, rice, oats, pasta, and legumes.
2. Protein: Essential for Recovery and Repair
Why it matters: Protein supports muscle repair, immune function, and adaptation to training stress.
Daily Protein Recommendations:
Athlete Type / Protein Intake (g/kg body weight)
Endurance athletes = 1.2–1.6 g/kg
Strength athletes1.6–2.2 g/kg
Tip: Distribute protein intake evenly throughout the day, aiming for 20–30g every 3–4 hours.
Best sources: Lean meats, eggs, dairy, soy, legumes, protein shakes.
3. Hydration: Prevent Cramping and Fatigue
Why it matters: Dehydration affects performance, coordination, and injury risk. Even a 2% fluid loss can impair performance.
Fluid Intake Guidelines:
Before training: 5–10 mL/kg 2–4 hours prior
During training: 400–800 mL/hour, depending on sweat rate
After training: Rehydrate with 150% of fluid lost
Pro tip: Weigh yourself before and after long workouts to estimate sweat loss. Use sports drinks with electrolytes for workouts over an hour (it will also help replenish your carbohydrates!)
Signs You Might Be Underfueling
If you’re underfueling, your body will send you signals. Look out for these warning signs:
Frequent or nagging injuries
Ongoing fatigue or poor recovery
Loss of menstrual cycle (in females)
Increased illness or cold frequency
Mood changes and low energy availability
Constant hunger or fixation on food
Fuel Smart to Train Hard
If you're serious about your sport, nutrition should be a top priority. Proper fueling isn’t just about performance — it’s about injury prevention, long-term health, and sustainable training.
By meeting your needs for carbohydrates, protein, and hydration, you give your body the tools it needs to perform, recover, and stay injury-free.
Dr. Matt Wentzell
BKin, MSc, DC, FRCCSS(C)
North Vancouver Sport Chiropractor
Shockwave and Class IV Laser Therapy: A Powerful Duo for Treating Plantar Fasciitis
Plantar fasciitis is one of the most common and stubborn causes of heel pain. If you've been waking up with sharp pain under your foot or struggling with discomfort that limits your daily activities, you're not alone.
At Mountain Health and Performance, we understand how frustrating it can be when pain lingers despite rest, stretching, and traditional treatments.
That's why we offer a powerful, proven combination: Shockwave Therapy and Class IV Laser Therapy. Together, these advanced therapies help stimulate healing, reduce inflammation, and get you back on your feet faster.
What Is Plantar Fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis occurs when the thick band of tissue that supports your arch — the plantar fascia — becomes irritated and inflamed.
Symptoms often include:
Sharp heel pain, especially with your first steps in the morning
Discomfort after periods of rest
Tenderness along the bottom of the foot
Plantar fasciitis can be notoriously difficult to heal because the foot is under constant use. Without the right treatment approach, the condition can become chronic and severely impact quality of life.
What Is Shockwave Therapy?
Shockwave Therapy uses high-energy sound waves to target damaged tissues. It works by:
Stimulating blood flow to the area
Breaking down scar tissue and calcifications
Triggering your body’s natural healing response
Research shows that Shockwave is highly effective for chronic plantar fasciitis, often succeeding where traditional treatments have failed. Most patients experience noticeable pain relief and improved mobility after just a few sessions and long term healing will occur in the months following the treatment plan.
What Is Class IV Laser Therapy?
Class IV Laser Therapy is a cutting-edge treatment that delivers concentrated light energy deep into tissues.
The laser works at a cellular level by:
Reducing inflammation
Accelerating tissue repair
Enhancing circulation
Unlike lower-powered lasers, a Class IV laser penetrates deeper, reaching areas traditional therapies often miss. Treatments are comfortable, soothing, and non-invasive — and they enhance your body’s ability to heal naturally.
Why Combining These Treatments Works Even Better
While Shockwave Therapy and Laser Therapy are both effective individually, combining them offers even greater results.
Shockwave kickstarts the healing process by stimulating tissue repair and breaking up chronic adhesions.
Laser Therapy reduces inflammation, calms irritated tissues, and speeds up cellular regeneration.
Together, they create a comprehensive healing environment — addressing both the cause of your pain and the inflammation that keeps it going.
This dual approach is especially beneficial for patients with long-standing, stubborn plantar fasciitis who haven't seen success with other treatments.
What to Expect During Treatment
At Mountain Health and Performance, your care plan is personalized to your needs.
Typically, a course of Shockwave and Laser Therapy involves several sessions spaced over a few weeks.
Shockwave treatments take only a few minutes and can cause mild discomfort (similar to a deep tissue massage), but many patients find it very tolerable.
Some individuals feel temporary soreness or a slight flare-up after sessions — this is a normal part of the body’s healing response.
Laser treatments feel warm and relaxing, with no discomfort.
There’s little to no downtime after treatments, and improvements often build with each session.
True tissue healing and long-lasting relief typically continue to progress even after the treatment series has ended.
Take the First Step Toward Pain-Free Living
If heel pain is limiting your life, it’s time for a different approach. At Mountain Health and Performance, we've been helping patients move better and feel better for over 25 years with evidence-based, innovative care. To our knowledge, we’re the only clinic offering both these services in North Vancouver.
Our experienced team is here to guide you toward lasting relief with treatments that work.
Ready to take the first step?
Contact us today to book your consultation and find out if Shockwave and Class IV Laser Therapy are right for you.
Dr. Amy Wiggins
BKin, DC
North Vancouver Chiropractor
Post-Game Recovery: What Professional Athletes Do (and How You Can Too)
Why Recovery Matters as Much as Training
When you think of professional athletes, you might picture intense workouts or highlight-reel moments. But behind the scenes, post-game recovery is where real performance gains happen. Whether you’re a weekend warrior or training for a marathon, smart recovery can be your secret weapon. At our Mountain Health and Performance, we teach athletes of all levels how to recover smarter, prevent injuries, and boost long-term performance.
Here’s how the pros do it—and how you can too.
1. Active Recovery Is Essential
Elite athletes rarely go from full intensity to a complete stop. Light movement post-game will promote circulation and can speed muscle repair.
How to recover like a pro: Try 20–30 minutes of low-impact cardio like walking, cycling, or a gentle yoga session after a tough game, or try a lower-intensity cycling, swimming or mobility work-out the day after a tough workout or competition.
2. Contrast Therapy & Cold Immersion for Faster Muscle Recovery
Ice baths aren’t just Instagram hype (spoiler: a dedicated blog post on this is coming!). Many athletes use cold therapy or hot/cold contrast showers to reduce inflammation and aid muscle recovery.
At-home hack: End your regular shower with a 30-second blast of cold water. Gradually build up your cold tolerance and over time, increase the cold exposure while alternating with warm water.
3. Prioritize Soft Tissue Care
Massage therapy and myofascial work aren't luxuries — they’re essential for tissue health and injury prevention.
Pro tip: Book a recovery massage within 48 hours after a major competition or heavy training session. If a post-competition massage is not practical or feasible for you, try some post-competition foam rolling on major muscle groups which may hasten your recovery.
4. Sleep: The Most Powerful Recovery Tool
Sleep is when most recovery happens, including muscle repair and hormone balancing.
Quick win: Aim for 8-10 hours of high-quality sleep with a consistent bedtime routine. Aim for a consistent sleep schedule, dark bedroom, and no screens for least 60 minutes before bed.
5. Refuel Properly After Games
Nutrition is key to recovery. Most, if not all pro teams consult with nutritionists or dieticians and have a post-game nutrition strategy in place to replenish energy stores and hydration, and provide the body what it needs for tissue repair.
Winning combo: Eat a mix of carbs and protein within an hour after intense exercise — think smoothies, wraps, Greek yogurt and/or a banana. Not eating can seriously hinder your ability to recuperate following intense activity and increase your chances of injury over time.
Final Tip: Recovery will always happen in some capacity, but recovering optimally requires intent
Don't just train hard — recover smart. Mountain Health and Performance in North Vancouver offers massage therapy, chiropractic care, laser therapy, shockwave and other tools to help you recover. Book an appointment with one of our practitioners and recover like a pro.
Dr. Matt Wentzell
BKin, MSc, DC, FRCCSS(C)
North Vancouver Sport Chiropractor
What are the benefits of chiropractic care in the management of sport injuries in North Vancouver, BC?
North Vancouver stands out as a sporting mecca, offering a diverse landscape and a robust community dedicated to sport and other athletic endeavours. The region provides ideal conditions for various sports, from skiing and snowboarding in the winter to hiking, mountain biking, and kayaking in the summer. Prominent organizations such as the North Shore Mountain Bike Association (NSMBA) exemplify the region’s commitment to promoting an active lifestyle while local clubs like the and the North Shore Girls Soccer Club fosters community engagement and youth participation in sport. Despite the many benefits of physical activity and sport, injury is an unfortunate but common occurrence.
Fortunately, North Vancouver residents have access to effective means of treating and preventing sport injuries; chiropractic care at Mountain Health and Performance.
Chiropractic care can be highly beneficial for managing sports injuries, offering both short-term relief and long-term recovery support. In fact, chiropractic care is widely used by major league sports teams, with a significant percentage incorporating chiropractic services into their overall health and wellness programs. While specific statistics may vary slightly from year to year, it is generally estimated that over 70% of major professional sports teams across North America, including those in the CFL, NFL, NBA, MLB, MLS, and NHL, utilize chiropractic care for their athletes.
Dr. Matt Wentzell with the Canadian Women’s National Indoor Volleyball team. Netherlands/Poland, 2022.
Some of the key benefits chiropractic care include:
Pain Relief: Chiropractic can help alleviate pain caused by muscle strains, ligament sprains, joint dysfunction, and other injuries. Several modalities may be used to do so, including spinal manipulation, soft tissue therapies such as Active Release Technique and cupping, laser therapy and shockwave therapy.
Improved Range of Motion: Limited range of motion can be a cause of injury or a contributor to injury development. Chiropractic adjustments can help restore spinal mobility and appropriate rehabilitative exercises can improve movement and flexibility of musculature of the arms, legs and torso.
Reduced Inflammation: Chiropractic care can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is a common issue in sports injuries. Techniques like spinal manipulation, soft tissue therapy, and laser therapy can help control the inflammatory response and speed up healing.
Enhanced Healing: Chiropractic care utilizing cutting edge technologies like laser therapy and shockwave therapy can accelerate the tissue healing response following injury.
Prevention of Future Injuries: Chiropractors can help athletes correct imbalances and misalignments that could lead to future injuries. Through regular manual therapy and rehabilitation, chiropractic care can maintain optimal function and prevent overuse injuries or repetitive strain.
Sports Performance Optimization: Chiropractors often work with athletes to improve posture, balance, and coordination, leading to better performance. By ensuring proper alignment, chiropractic care may help enhance strength, flexibility, and overall athletic performance.
Non-invasive Treatment: Chiropractic care is a non-invasive treatment option, which can be appealing for athletes who wish to avoid surgery or medication. This approach focuses on natural healing without the side effects that often come with medications.
Tailored Treatment Plans: Chiropractors provide individualized care, taking into account the specific needs of the athlete. Whether it’s improving mobility after an injury or preventing future issues, chiropractic care can be tailored to the athlete’s goals.
Overall, chiropractic care is an excellent complement to other rehabilitation treatments for sports injuries and can be a key part of an athlete’s overall recovery and injury prevention strategy.
If you’d like to learn more about how our North Vancouver chiropractors can assist in the management and prevention of your sport injuries, contact us at 604-984-0014 or book an appointment online.
Dr. Matt Wentzell
BKin, MSc, DC, FRCCSS(C)
North Vancouver Sport Chiropractor
Mountain Health and Performance Welcomes New Team Member
Mountain Health and Performance is please to announce the latest edition to the team; Callum Weekes, RMT!
Callum Weekes RMT
Callum is a graduate of the West Coast College of Massage Therapy (WCCMT). He is passionate about helping people move better, feel better, and live with less pain. Whether you’re dealing with stress, recovering from an injury, or managing chronic tension, Callum takes the time to understand your goals and tailors each treatment to suit your needs.
With training in Swedish massage, deep tissue techniques, and myofascial release, Callum blends therapeutic and relaxation-focused approaches to support the body’s natural healing process. He’s dedicated to creating a welcoming, supportive environment where clients feel heard, comfortable, and cared for.
Callum is excited to work with people from all walks of life, whether you’re seeking relief from chronic pain or simply looking to prioritize your overall wellness.
Callum is accepting is available Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. He is currently accepting new patients. To book with Callum, click here.
The Benefits of Custom Pillow Fitting in North Vancouver
“What is the best pillow?” is a question we have heard hundreds, if not thousands of times at Mountain Health and Performance.
We usually hear this question within the context of managing one’s neck pain, headaches or shoulder pain since an ill-fitting pillow can exacerbate or contribute to these conditions. Afterall, the pillow directly impacts how your neck and spine align while you sleep, creating opportunities for misalignment and pressure points to cause tension, stiffness and frequent wakeups (bad Airbnb experience, anyone?).
Trying to navigate this on your own can also be an overwhelming experience as there can be hundreds of options to choose from at big box stores. And simply laying on a pillow for 5 minutes in-store is unlikely to give you a good sense of how your body will feel after laying on it following several hours of sleep.
Pillowise Custom Fit Pillows
At Mountain Health and Performance, we’ve been having tremendous success with the Pillowise custom-fit pillows. These pillows provide personalized neck and spinal support for a more restful and comfortable sleep. Some of the key benefits include:
Personalized Support: Pillowise pillows are tailored to the individual’s body measurements, such as neck length, neck circumference, and shoulder width with consideration of the firmness of the sleeping surface and preferred sleeping position. This customization ensures the pillow offers the right level of support for proper spine alignment.
Improved Sleep Quality: By promoting better alignment of the neck and spine, Pillowise pillows can help reduce discomfort, leading to better sleep quality and fewer disturbances during the night.
Pain Relief: For individuals with neck pain, shoulder pain or headaches, the pillow's ergonomic design can help alleviate pressure points and reduce pain.
Durability: While other memory foam pillows are made with layers or chunks of memory foam (which creates natural weak points in the pillow), each Pillowise pillow is made with a single piece of high-quality European memory foam, which tends to offer longer-lasting comfort compared to standard pillows. Pillowise is unique in that they offer a 5-year warranty on their pillows - well above the industry standard.
Temperature Control: Pillowise pillows are designed with grooves strategically cut throughout the open-cell memory foam to allow for better breathability, helping you to regulate your temperature and keep you cool throughout the night.
In summary, buying pillows at a big box store is like buying a suit off the rack. It MIGHT be ok but it’s a roll of the dice. Getting sized for a Pillowise pillow is a bespoke experience, similar getting fitted for a custom suit that is specific to your dimensions and needs.
The sizing process is straightforward and relatively quick. If you are interested in getting a Pillowise custom-fit pillow, Dr. Matt Wentzell is able to size you during your next appointment at Mountain Health and Performance. Book here if interested!
Dr. Matt Wentzell
BKin, MSc, DC, FRCCSS(C)
North Vancouver Sport Chiropractor
North Vancouver Chiropractic Clinic Gives Back to Volleyball Community
Mountain Health and Performance is excited to sponsor the North Shore Stars Volleyball Club for 2025.
North Shore Stars Volleyball was founded in 2006 and has been integral in the development of girls volleyball in North Vancouver during this time. The Stars vision of developing the physical, social and psychological growth of youth was something that resonated with the practitioners at MHP and led to the collaboration.
Mountain Health and Performance has been a staple in the North Vancouver community for decades. The practitioners working within MHP have dedicated much of their time to sport in many capacities - as athletes, guest lecturers for sport teams, and go-to health providers for the management of sport injuries.
Mountain Health and Performance wishes all Stars teams a healthy and successful 2025 campaign!
Dr. Matt Wentzell
BKin, MSc, DC, FRCCSS(C)
North Vancouver Sport Chiropractor