Osteopathic Treatment in Nelson, BC: Meet Eli

I’m Eli, a registered osteopathic practitioner serving Nelson and the Kootenay region. My approach combines traditional osteopathic manual therapy with movement rehabilitation to help you find lasting relief from pain and restore your body’s natural balance.

My Journey to Osteopathy

Bodywork is an intrinsic part of my upbringing—I was raised by a massage therapist who started teaching me about therapeutic touch before I reached primary school. In 2005, I graduated from the Wellness Education Center as a Registered Massage Therapist (RMT), but I was searching for deeper answers.

This search led me to integrate cranio-sacral therapy, visceral manipulation, and muscle energy techniques into my practice. When I discovered these powerful modalities originated in osteopathy, I knew I had to study the source directly. I completed a comprehensive 2,200-hour program at the National Academy of Osteopathy, gaining the depth of knowledge needed to address complex health conditions.

Advanced Training & Specializations

My commitment to providing the best osteopathic care for Nelson and Kootenay residents has led me to pursue extensive post-graduate training:

  • Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy with Charles Ridley (2007) – Enhancing my ability to work with the subtle rhythms of the craniosacral system
  • Visceral Manipulation Advanced Training with Frank Lowen, 10-year director of the Barral Institute (2015-2016) – Specializing in organ-specific fascial release
  • Hurley Osborn Technique (2018) – Advanced structural correction methods
  • Vestibular and Concussion Training (2024) – Latest protocols for treating dizziness, balance issues, and post-concussion syndrome

Movement Therapy & Osteopathy: A Complete Approach

I believe strongly in combining hands-on osteopathic treatment with active movement therapy. Over 15 years of dedicated practice, I’ve integrated tools from:

  • Yoga and Feldenkrais method
  • Gymnastics conditioning
  • Circular strength training
  • Physiotherapy principles

This comprehensive approach means you’ll receive both expert manual therapy and personalized movement strategies tailored to your body’s specific needs—whether you’re recovering from a skiing injury, dealing with chronic back pain, or seeking to optimize your health for Kootenay’s active lifestyle.

Specialized Osteopathic Treatment Areas

With my advanced training, I offer specialized treatment for:

Concussion & Vestibular Issues

  • Post-concussion syndrome
  • Dizziness and vertigo
  • Balance disorders
  • Visual disturbances after head injury

Visceral & Organ-Related Conditions

  • Digestive issues and IBS
  • Chronic abdominal pain
  • Post-surgical adhesions
  • Organ mobility restrictions

Craniosacral Conditions

  • Chronic headaches and migraines
  • TMJ dysfunction
  • Birth trauma in infants
  • Sleep disturbances

Structural Issues

  • Complex spinal problems
  • Chronic pain patterns
  • Postural imbalances
  • Sports injury recovery

My Personal Understanding of Healing

They say you can only lead others where you yourself have been. I have come out the other side of some difficult challenges with my body. I herniated discs in my spine doing construction work and then got exposed to black mould, which left me with severely compromised energy and mobility.

But with research, perseverance, and osteopathic principles, I recovered. In doing so, I gained priceless lessons about how to heal and maintain health. That’s why I’ve chosen to dedicate my practice to osteopathy here in Nelson—after experiencing how pain can throw your whole life out of balance, I don’t want you to have to stay there any longer than necessary.

It is an honour to use my osteopathic training and personal experience to help you find your unique path to balance and wellness.

Why Choose Kootenay Osteopathy

  • Comprehensive assessment addressing root causes, not just symptoms
  • Gentle, hands-on osteopathic techniques suitable for all ages
  • Integrated movement therapy for lasting results
  • Direct billing available for extended health insurance
  • Convenient Nelson location with flexible scheduling
  • One of the few practitioners in the Kootenays with specialized concussion and vestibular training

Proudly serving Nelson, Kaslo, Castlegar, and the greater Kootenay region with professional osteopathic care.

Eli Mead, Osteopath in Nelson, BC