In 1994 a simple trip to the dentist turned into 5 years of pain, misery and desperation. As a symptom free healthy adult, I had orthodontic braces put on my teeth in order to improve my bite. Within 2 weeks, I began experiencing dizziness, headaches, visual difficulties, tinnitis and a variety of other symptoms.

On the advice of my orthodontist, I sought medical help. After 6 months and extensive testing, my condition had worsened and still there was no diagnosis. Eventually, a dentist diagnosed me with an acute TMJ dysfunction and the braces were removed.

Over the next 4 ½ years, I wore a dental appliance to correct jaw position and had new braces put on. During this period, my condition continued to degrade and I was unable to work or drive a car. I consulted specialists in dentistry and the medical field. I under went X-Rays, CT Scans, blood tests, Pulmonary Function Test, EKG, hearing tests, Auditory Brainstem Response Test, vestibular disorder tests, had my wisdom teeth extracted, was prescribed various pain, muscle relaxant and antidepressant medications to no avail. When the braces were removed, I was in even worse shape. The physical and emotional stress was devastating.

My primary care physician suggested I see a local neuromuscular massage therapist. Through a persistent and consistent therapy program, my condition began to improve. Eventually, I was able to return to normal activity.

I have been an athlete my entire life. My athletic experiences include: Baseball, basketball, track, weight training, flag football, bicycle racing, run-bike-run biathlon, yoga, golf, tennis, trail running and kayaking. During the period that I suffered I was unable to participate in any activities. Now that I am able to exercise and play sports, I enjoy activity everyday without exception.  

I wanted to understand what had happened to me. I began researching myofascial pain and soft tissue dysfunction. The information I found clearly explained my condition. The experience fostered a desire to pursue a formal education in Orthopedic and Neuromuscular Massage Therapy. I believe the combination of my experience, education and passion for the field of manual therapy makes me an effective and compassionate therapist.