Janet Walker, Osteopathic Manual Practitioner
Thank you for visiting me online. In an effort to let you learn more about me, what I do and how I work, I’ve answered some frequently asked questions below. My more formal bio can be found on LinkedIn. If you like my approach I hope we can work together. If you have any questions please contact me; I’m always happy to chat.
An Interview with Janet
Who are you + what do you do?
I’m an osteopathic manual practitioner (OMP) and have been practicing manual therapy for over 25 years. I also offer alignment and movement education.
Who do you work with?
I have a general family practice with clients of all ages, from newborns to seniors. I have a particular interest in infants and women’s health, including fertility, prenatal and postnatal care. I’m now a self-experienced expert in perimenopausal health too. 😉
How do you work?
I combine an inquisitive nature with a thorough understanding of health sciences, and a touch of humour. My clients often say I’m very intuitive. I believe intuition is knowledge based in experience; years of hands-on practice, and life, have helped. I consider the impact of all aspects of your life – physical, mental, emotional, social, and spiritual.
Who can benefit from osteopathy?
Almost anyone. And everyone! A common reason for consulting is “I’ve tried everything else, but I’m still experiencing {name your condition} and someone suggested osteopathy.”
Osteopathic treatment can reduce pain, stiffness and inflammation, and improve mobility. It can help prevent injuries, enhance performance and speed recovery. Preventative care can improve your health and wellbeing, even when you have no specific complaints. Stress can be the source of many symptoms; I can help you make the connections and offer simple, effective strategies to help.
You have a background in advertising. How did you become an osteopath?
My family owned a private hospital when I was growing up. I was interested in medicine until I discovered I had a bit of a needle and blood phobia. I studied business instead, then spent ten busy years in advertising. My passion for health and fitness inspired me to become both an aqua-fit and ski instructor during that period. For years, I debated chiropractic or naturopathic medicine as a second career. When I discovered osteopathy, my decision was made.
I needed a health science degree to study at the Canadian College of Osteopathy (CCO). I chose massage therapy to put my hands-on skills to the test. My first craniosacral course made me realize how sensitive my sense of touch is and how I can detect very subtle things with my hands. It also explains why even as a kid I was irritated by itchy seams and tags! I now believe that osteopathy is more than just a job; it’s my true calling.
How did you come to specialize in prenatal and infant care?
One of the great things about the CCO’s program is the independent research project. Obstetrics is part of the core curriculum. I enjoyed it, so I took additional courses with some of the leading international osteopaths to develop greater expertise.
My thesis studied the effects of osteopathic treatment during pregnancy on women’s birthing experience. The results were very encouraging; the treated group underwent significantly fewer medical interventions than the untreated control group. Since then I’ve treated many pregnant women and now get referrals from clients, doulas, midwives and doctors.
I’ve had the privilege of seeing many babies as a result! And I’ve developed expertise in supporting them in feeding, sleep, and other challenges.
What makes osteopathy different from physiotherapy, chiropractic or massage therapy?
There’s certainly overlap amongst the professions, and each practitioner has their distinct way of working; however, I believe there are three fundamental differences.
First, osteopathy is not about techniques; it’s a philosophy of healthcare based on four guiding principles:
- Your body is a functional unit.
- Structure and function are reciprocally interrelated.
- The movement of body fluids is essential for health.
- You have natural self-regulating and healing mechanisms.
Second, we take a whole person approach and consider physical injury, posture, emotional stresses and more. We make connections between the parts too – maybe your headaches are related to your high heels. There are no protocols or standardized treatments. We treat each person as a unique individual.
Third, osteopaths look and feel beyond just the musculoskeletal system to find the underlying source of your discomfort. Fascia, fluids, organs – they’re all on our radar.
What differentiates you from other osteopaths?
I take an eclectic approach to osteopathy, starting with the traditional philosophy and principles and layering on current research and practices to offer the most effective care. Over 25 years of hands-on experience has helped me develop my clinical thinking, physical assessment and treatment skills. I like to learn about you as a person, not a disorder, and I take the time to listen to you and your life story to better understand how I can help you.
I’m big on self-care. I love staying current with mind-body and nutrition news and encourage regular whole-body movement. I became a Nutritious Movement™ restorative exercise specialist in 2013 and Spring Forest Qigong Practice Group Leader in 2020. In 2022, I completed the Buteyko (Breathing) Clinic Method and HeartMath® certifications .
Do you work with other practitioners?
I work alone in my practice, but I like to collaborate with other healthcare professionals. I recognize my limitations and readily admit when I don’t have the tools to help you achieve your health goals. If any of your symptoms raise a red-flag, I’ll ask you to check in with your medical doctor for further tests (blood work, x-rays, etc.) so we can develop a safe and effective treatment strategy.
I’m open to a broad range of therapies. I’m continually building my network to refer you to the best resources for your needs. I often recommend working with a naturopathic doctor as I find naturopathy and osteopathy highly complementary.
What are your other interests?
In 2020, I acted on my dream of moving to Owen Sound. My favourite escapes are hiking and open-water swimming, so it’s fantastic to be minutes away from the Bruce Trail and Georgian Bay! I’ve been a skier since I was five and started kayaking in my 40s. I’ve given up some of my other hard-on-the-body sports, though—an osteopath’s hands are her tools.
I’m a fan of modern Canadian fiction, like experimenting with healthy cooking, and am trying to get back into knitting… I also volunteer on the Owen Sound Community Services Committee and sit on the Board of Directors of the Ontario Association of Osteopathic Manual Practitioners.