Working with children is incredibly special. They are not just small versions of adults, they are still developing in many ways and need to be supported and treated in an age appropriate and developmentally appropriate manner. I have become a Certified Pediatric Massage Therapist through the Liddlekidz Foundation under the personal tutelage of Globally Recognized instructor Tina Allen. I have expanded my knowledge base as well, having taken the Advanced course, dealing more specifically with children with special health considerations, as well as massage for pediatric oncology (children with cancer) and infant massage instruction. I am currently working through a course called Dynamic Core for Kids, exploring the links between deep core co-ordination and postural control.
I like to use a collaborative approach. This can mean working with other health care providers (Physiotherapists, Chiropractors, Physicians, Psychotherapists), or just including YOU in an active role in your own treatment. I like to ensure that folks understand what I’m doing and why. There is almost always some kind of homework component to my massage therapy treatment plans, this gives everyone an opportunity to play a part in their healing process.
I have been treating the aches and pains that go along with pregnancy since I began my career. It wasn’t until after the birth of my own child that I really began to delve into specialized massage therapy treatment for prenatal and postpartum issues, including those related to pelvic floor dysfunction. For those with a traditional delivery this can include muscle strain due to labour and delivery. For those who have experienced a caesarean birth, addressing the scar tissue can be an important part of the healing process. Those who need postpartum treatment, but have no support to help with their baby, are welcome to bring the baby with them to their appointments. We have an extra wide table to accommodate nursing or skin to skin during massage therapy treatment.
When I am not treating patients or advocating for massage therapy for children, I am spending time with my husband Dave, and son Grayson in the great outdoors. We live on acreage outside the city, and it keeps us busy.
Book your appointment with Shelley here.