Q&A with Dr. Crystal Draper, Chiropractor At Yoga Mamas

Dr. Crystal Draper is a Chiropractor at Yoga Mamas who specializes in Preconception, Prenatal, Postnatal and Paediatric health. We sat down with Crystal to discuss Yoga Mamas, her health philosophy and life as a Chiropractor. 

Why Did You Become A Chiropractor? 

​I became a Chiropractor because of my own personal experience with the profession.
As a teen, I was diagnosed with severe scoliosis, which is a curvature of the spine.
Although it made me quirky, it was also slowing me down while playing sports due to
the pain I was experiencing. So at my next checkup at SickKids hospital, my Orthopedic
Surgeon referred me to a Chiropractor, and I haven’t looked back since (pun intended)!
Since then, regular visits to my Chiropractor have had a huge impact on my life: I’m
more mobile and in a lot less pain.

What Do You Love Most About Your Job?

​I love the relationships I get to build with patients every day! Especially with mamas-to-
be – it’s such an exciting and emotional time for them, and to be a part of their journey
toward parenthood is so gratifying.

If You Weren't A Chiropractor, What Would You Be?

​Well, I also love educating. Luckily I get to satisfy both passions of chiropractic and
teaching; when I am not in the clinic treating mamas and mamas-to- be, I am at the
Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College teaching chiros-to- be. It’s the perfect blend.

What Message Do You Hope Clients Will Take Away From Their Time Spent With You?

​Empowerment. About their pain, their health, and their wellbeing. My patients are in
charge; I am simply here to facilitate by providing in-person care and a homecare
routine that helps address their specific needs.

What's The Biggest Misconception About Chiro?

That it is not safe during pregnancy. Huge misconception! I can’t think of a time that it is more important. Mamas-to- be are going through so many physical changes during this time, and unfortunately, most experience pain. Chiropractic care is a safe and effective way to help decrease these aches and pains, allowing mom to be more comfortable during her pregnancy journey.

What's Your Number One Tip For Mamas and Mamas-to-be?

​Do what feels right for you and your babe. There are so many thoughts, opinions and
judgments on what is right and wrong during pregnancy and motherhood, but only you
know what is right for the two of you. Listen to your intuition.

What's Your Personal Health Philosophy?

​This question makes me think of a quote that I love and live by, and TYM references a
lot, which is, “Take care of your body, it is the only place you have to live.” I make sure
to eat well-- mostly plants—move my body, and be kind to it when it asks for help.

What's Your Favourite Quote?

​Well aside from the one I just mentioned, my other favourite is from Maya Angelou,
which says, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what
you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” As a Chiropractor, and
as a person, I want to make people feel their best.