Advanced Sports Chiropractic and Massage in Bellingham is thrilled to introduce its latest provider, Dr. Rachel Hetherington, DC.
Dr. Hetherington brings a unique perspective to chiropractic care, with a background in exercise science, a passion for patient education, and a genuine commitment to helping people regain their active lifestyles.
We sat down with Dr. Hetherington to learn more about her journey, her approach to chiropractic care, and her exciting adventures in the Bellingham community.
Incorporating Exercise Science into Chiropractic Care
Dr. Hetherington’s path to chiropractic care began with her background in exercise science. Her exposure to various sports and fitness approaches provided a valuable lesson: there is no one-size-fits-all solution to staying active and healthy. This understanding has become a cornerstone of her approach to chiropractic treatment.
Dr. Hetherington believes in maintaining an open dialogue with her patients and tailoring treatments to each individual to ensure they can remain as physically active as possible. According to her, this adaptability is just as vital as any other aspect of chiropractic care.
Q: How does your background in exercise science influence your approach to chiropractic treatment?
“My background in exercise science exposed me to a variety of sports and approaches to fitness. One of the most important things I took away was that there is no one correct way to stay active and healthy. Different approaches will work for different people. Having an open dialogue about care and adapting treatments to each patient to keep them as physically active as possible is as important as any other aspects of chiropractic care.”
Q: What makes you different from other chiropractors? What sets your approach apart?
“Quite a few patients come into the office who are frustrated with their injury, past care, or lack of answers. I do my best to explain to patients why they are hurting and what I can do to help them heal and reach their goals. I most enjoy educating people about their bodies and what they can do to take care of themselves outside of the office.”
A Passion for Patient Wellness
What excites Dr. Hetherington most about her work is helping patients reach their health and wellness goals. Her ultimate satisfaction lies in witnessing her patients return to the activities they love. She firmly believes that life is too short to be restricted by pain or physical limitations, and she’s dedicated to helping individuals enjoy their passions to the fullest.
Q: For athletes and active individuals dealing with injuries, what role can chiropractic treatment play in recovery and getting back to activities they enjoy?
“I would tell athletes and active individuals dealing with injuries that chiropractic care at our office can aid in a faster diagnosis and start to their treatment plan, which will get them moving better, sooner.”
Q: What do you enjoy most about working with patients to help them reach their health and wellness goals?
“I enjoy getting my patients back to the activities they like to do, and seeing how happy that makes them. Life is short, and everyone should be able to do what they love for as long as they can.”
Choosing Bellingham: A Unique Blend of Town and City
Dr. Hetherington’s decision to start her chiropractic career in Bellingham was influenced by the town’s unique blend of small-town charm within reach of a bustling city. She cherishes the opportunity to engage with both the outdoors and the local community, making Bellingham a perfect fit for her practice.
Q: Why did you choose to move to Bellingham to start your chiropractic career? What excites you about serving this community?
“Being able to have the feel of a small town while being in a larger city, as well as being near both Seattle and Vancouver, drew me to Bellingham initially. This community excites me because it is big enough to have a diverse population and a variety of activities to do in town, while still being small enough to run into people you know on hikes, runs, or out at local shops.”
Q: What do you like to do outside of work for fun in the Bellingham area? Any favorite hikes, paddle boarding spots, etc?
“Outside of work, I enjoy reading, trying new restaurants and breweries, and exploring the areas around Bellingham. I love being so close to the multiple lakes around Bellingham, and Lake Padden and Lake Whatcom were my go-to spots for paddle boarding this summer! Oyster Dome trail is one of my favorite hiking spots close to town, but High Pass trail is the most beautiful hike I have gotten to do since I moved to Washington. I have also just begun training for a half marathon, and running through new neighborhoods is a great way to explore the city!”
Dr. Hetherington brings a refreshing approach to chiropractic care in Bellingham. Her dedication to patient education, focus on individualized treatments and commitment to restoring her patients’ active lifestyles make her an invaluable addition to the Advanced Sports Chiropractic and Massage team. As she continues to serve the Bellingham community, her passion for wellness and the great outdoors will undoubtedly leave a positive impact on those she encounters.
Make Appointment with Dr. Rachel Hetherington, DC
If you’re ready to take the first step towards a healthier, more active life, schedule an appointment with Dr. Rachel Hetherington, DC. Get on the path to pain relief and improved well-being today.