Yardley native and competitive rower Dr. Katie Samsel is a licensed chiropractic physician and the owner of Samsel Integrative Health, in Langhorne. Throughout her years of training, certification and experience, she has committed to helping patients achieve pain relief by using the most advanced and effective chiropractic techniques available.

While conventional medicine focuses on treating illness as it occurs, the approach at Samsel Integrative Health is to emphasize the importance of prevention and maintenance, which ultimately serves to reduce the risk of pain and illness. By developing a customized care plan, Samsel provides first-time and routine visitors a blueprint for maintaining overall health and wellness.

What are some common misconceptions people have about chiropractic treatments, and how do you address these for first-time clients? One of the most common misconceptions is that the adjustment hurts or that the only way to get adjusted is manually. I tend to be conservative with my initial treatments, especially with someone that has never been to a chiropractor. If someone is nervous about being adjusted, we may start with instrument adjusting or with a gentle, manual adjustment. Instrument adjusting utilizes a handheld tool instead of just hands to do the adjustment and is generally less forceful, without any popping sounds.

What are the benefits of seeing a chiropractor, and how often should a client receive treatment? Because the nervous system controls every part of the body, chiropractic treatment can help almost any issue. I’ve seen amazing results with asthma, constipation, carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis, migraines, sinus problems and colds. Generally, the average person will get adjusted anywhere from once a week to once a month.

How do people know if a chiropractor is right for them? The first thing to do is to get evaluated. Most chiropractors can do a preliminary screening that involves posture and spinal palpation. Many people don’t realize that the beginning phases of disease, including arthritis, don’t involve pain, but can show in a spinal exam and can even be seen on X-ray.

What are the most effective techniques for correcting physical imbalances? Manual adjusting has worked for many patients over many years. But it’s not appropriate for everyone, so I also utilize an adjusting tool. Myofascial release techniques and kinesiology tape also help to support the adjustment.

What are some tips for everyday chiropractic health? Maintaining good posture is a good start. Habits like sitting on feet or sleeping with one knee bent and one straight can perpetuate spinal imbalances. I recommend some type of daily exercise. Walking is a low impact activity with some cardio benefit. Core strengthening exercises help with posture and lower back support. I’m partial to yoga because it includes a good mix of strength and stretching, as well as a component that helps balance the mind.

What are some things people might not know about your work? At Samsel Integrative Health, I use a comprehensive approach to each person I see. I look at the physical, chemical and emotional aspects of the problem. In regards to chiropractic health, it’s important to remember this is rarely an overnight fix. Just like working out or wearing braces on your teeth, it takes time to make changes in the body. Ultimately, I want patients to be comfortable and confident with the treatment they are receiving.

Location: 305 Corporate Dr. East, Langhorne. For more information, call 215-944-8424, email [email protected] or visit SamselHealth.com.

Julie Vitto is a Pennsylvania-based writer and editorial associate to Natural Awakenings BuxMont. Connect at [email protected].

March 2017