Meet the Staff

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Chiropractors

Dr. Bradley Eyford

Doctor of Chiropractic
drbradeyford@gmail.com

Dr. Bradley Eyford was born and raised in Vancouver BC, Canada. He Graduated from the University of Victoria, in Victoria BC with his Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology in 1998. Soon thereafter, he moved to Portland OR for his post-graduate education at Western States Chiropractic College. After graduating Chiropractic College in 2003, he began his practice
in Tacoma WA and has been practicing there ever since. As a lifelong patient of Chiropractic care, Dr. Eyford knows and truly values the benefits of the adjustment. It's this knowledge and passion for helping others that drives him in his constant quest to improve the lives of his patients.

Dr. Eyford is the co-owner and clinic director of The Health Connection, Tacoma's premier provider of natural health and wellness. With a background in exercise physiology, and a love of sports, Dr. Eyford utilizes a balanced approach when working with his patients. He has worked extensively with patients of all kinds including elite level athletes, weekend warriors, Monday morning quarterbacks, and aspiring desk jockeys. He has worked extensively with families who choose to incorporate Chiropractic into their regular health and wellness programs. Dr. Eyford's wife, Dr. Shannon Eyford has a specialty in Chiropractic pediatrics, and with their 2 wonderful boys, Jackson and Pearce, working with Children comes naturally for Dr. Eyford.

The Drs. at the Health Connection utilize state of the art diagnostic equipment, combined with several integrated Chiropractic procedures ranging from low-force techniques to traditional manual Chiropractic adjustments. Our system of analysis is based on the highly regarded and well-researched method of Activator. To enhance our patient's experience and to achieve rapid and lasting results, we use a combination of specific exercises, proper nutritional supplements, and appropriate therapies and home care with our patients.

Education:

1998 – Bachelor of Arts (Kinesiology) – University of Victoria, Victoria BC 2003 – Doctor of Chiropractic – Western States Chiropractic College, Portland OR

Licensure:

Doctor of Chiropractic, Washington State Department of Health Canadian National Board of Chiropractic National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (I, II, III, IV)

Memberships & Associations:

Washington State Chiropractic Association American Chiropractic Association (A.C.A.) Rotary International (Paul Harris Fellow) Tacoma Narrows Rotary (Club President 2010-2011)

Certification & Techniques:

Advanced proficiency rated in Activator Methods
Diversified Extremity adjusting
Thompson drop Cranial / TMJ

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Dr. Shannon Eyford

Doctor of Chiropractic

Dr. Shannon Eyford was born in Santa Rosa, California and raised in Olympia, WA. Most of her adult life has been spent between Ellensburg, Portland, and Olympia pursuing her dream of being a Chiropractor. She was introduced to Chiropractic by her mentor Dr. Bob Provasoli, and soon after graduating in 2002, worked as an intern for him. After moving to and practicing in Puyallup for several years, she joined forces with her husband to start The Health Connection in Tacoma, WA in May of 2005. They have two children, Jackson, born in January of 2005, and Pearce, born in June of 2007. Dr. Shannon practices full spectrum chiropractic, however she has an emphasis on working with pregnant women and children. She is currently taking a leave from patient care to focus on the needs of her children as well as office management.

Education:

Bachelor of Human Sciences, Western States Chiropractic College
Doctor of Chiropractic, Western States Chiropractic College

Techniques:

Diversified
Drop
Activator
Flexion-distraction
Low-force

Licensure:

Washington State Chiropractic License
Parts I, II, III, IV National Board certification

Certifications:

Diploma in pediatrics (ICPA)
Active Release Technique (ART®)
Total Solutions Graduate (CLA)

Memberships & Associations:

Washington State Chiropractic Association (WSCA)
American Chiropractic Association (ACA)
International Chiropractic Pediatric Association (ICPA)
Chiropractic Leadership Alliance

Hobbies:

Boating
Water skiing
Snowboarding
Yoga/Pilates
Shopping
Family time!

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Acupuncturists

Janelle Bartow

Licensed Acupuncturist - Board Certified Chinese Herbalist

Janelle was born in southern Oregon and moved to Washington in 1993. Prior to joining The Health Connection, she attended the Seattle Institute of Oriental Medicine, a unique apprentice style school that emphasizes clinical training through close relationships with expert clinical faculty members. Janelle helps her patients achieve wellness through acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and lifestyle advice. When not practicing Chinese medicine, Janelle spends a few hours each week assisting Tibetan monks and lamas at The Sakya Monastery of Tibetan Buddhism.

Education:

Master of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, Seattle Institute of Oriental Medicine
Bachelor of Arts in Comparative Religion, The Evergreen State College

Licensure:

WA state Acupuncture License
NCCAOM diplomate in Oriental Medicine
NCCAOM diplomate in Chinese Herbology

Techniques:

Traditional Chinese Acupuncture, Manaka (Japanese) style acupuncture, Moxabustion, Gua Sha, Cupping, Chinese Herbal Medicine, Food Therapy and Chinese Tui Na Massage.

Hobbies:

Nature photography
Hiking
Cooking
Gardening
Making crafty things

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Massage Therapists

Laura Hart

Licensed Massage Practitioner

Laura was born and raised in University Place and now resides in North Tacoma with her husband and two daughters. Laura graduated from Body Mechanics of Myotherapy in 2006 and has been focusing on injury treatment since. She enjoys helping people overcome pain and seeing the benefits of massage.

Education:

Body Mechanics of Myotherapy in Olympia, WA

Techniques:

Relaxation
Deep Tissue Massage
Trigger Point Therapy
Myofascial Release
Frozen shoulder
Carpal Tunnel
Swedish
Pregnancy Massage

Licensure & Certifications:

WA State Massage License
Insured through AMTA
Pre and post-natal Massage certification 2012

Hobbies:

Skiing
Spending time with family
Hiking
Running
Reading

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Vanessa Clarke

Licensed Massage Practitioner

Vanessa grew up in both Fredricksburg, VA and Federal Way, WA, and now lives with her husband in downtown Puyallup, WA. Vanessa decided to pursue a career in massage after experiencing first hand the healing benefits of chiropractic and massage after a car accident. She graduated Everest College in 2011, and specializes in treatment and sports massage.

Education:

Everest College Tacoma, WA

Techniques:

Deep Tissue
Trigger Point Treatment
Myofascial Release
Relaxation
Reflexology
Ayurveda
Aromatherapy

Licensure & Certifications:

WA State Massage License
HOTA member

Hobbies:

Spending time with family and friends
Reading
Drawing
Music

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Amy Lowe

Licensed Massage Practitioner

Amy is a Pacific Northwest native born and raised in Whatcom County. She now resides in Bonney Lake with her husband, 2 year old daughter and two dogs. Amy grew up training in various forms of competitive dance, and through a few dance related injuries, she realized the value of chiropractic care and massage therapy treatments.

Education:

Ashmead College in Fife, WA

Techniques:

Carpal Tunnel
Relaxation/Swedish
Deep Tissue Massage
Reflexology
Scar Tissue/Hydrotherapy
Sports Massage
Trigger Point
Whiplash Treatment

Licensure & Certifications:

WA State Massage License

Hobbies:

Dancing
Baking
Hanging out with daughter Bridgette
Play dates

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Stephanie Pederson

Licensed Massage Practitioner

Stephanie was born and raised in Arizona. She then moved to Tacoma to attend the University of Puget Sound where she majored in Theater Arts. Since graduating she has worked extensively in dance and choreography, both teaching and performing. It was her love of movement and passion to help people achieve the most they can physically, the lead her to pursue massage therapy. Stephanie graduated from Massage Connection School of Natural Health in 2011 and has a particular enjoyment for working in treatment massage.

Education:

Massage Connection School of Natural Healing, Tacoma, WA
Bachelor of Arts in Theater Arts, University of Puget Sound

Techniques:

Relaxation/Swedish
Deep Tissue Massage
Myofascial Release
Trigger Point Therapy
Post Isometric Relaxation
Sports Massage
Hydrotherapy
Pregnancy Massage

Licensure & Certifications:

WA State Massage License
Insured through AMTA
Pre and post-natal Massage certification 2012

Hobbies:

Dance/Choreography
Kayaking
Music
Hiking

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Melody Martel

Licensed Massage Practitioner

Melody is a Pacific Northwest native, born and raised in King and Pierce Counties. She now resides in Tacoma with her husband and four children. Melody had a severe injury in 2004 and turned to Chiropractic and Massage for treatment. In 2005 she experienced a complete recovery. Deciding that the gift of health was one that needed to be passed along, she graduated from Ashmead School of Massage in 2006. Melody truly enjoys working within a treatment setting and takes pride in providing care specific to each client and their particular massage needs.

Education:

Ashemead College in Fife, WA

Techniques:

Relaxation/Swedish
Deep Tissue Massage
Myofascial Release
Trigger Point Therapy
Sports Massage
Hydrotherapy

Licensure & Certifications:

WA State Massage License
Sports Massage Certification

Hobbies:

Trail running "aka frolicking in the woods"
Gardening
Amateur Nature Photography

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DonaRae White

Licensed Massage Practitioner



DonaRae is a native of the Northwest and was raised in Gig Harbor.She now resides in North Tacoma with her fiancé, Larry, her youngest son, three dogs and three chickens. DonaRae went to school at Everest College in Fife (formerly, Ashmead College of Massage) and graduated with Honors in 2011.DonaRae formerly enjoyed a career as a paralegal for many years but followed her heart to pursue a career in the healing arts and is truly fulfilled be helping others through touch therapy.

Education:

Everest College Tacoma, WA

Techniques:

Myofascial Release
Deep Tissue
Post Isometrix Relaxation
Trigger Point therapy
Structural Relief Therapy
Swedish Gymnastics
Relaxation
Sports Massage
Aromatherapy
Reciprocal Inhibition Stretching

Licensure & Certifications:

WA State Massage License
Insured through ABMP

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Office Staff

Jenny Schwartz

Chiropractic Assistant

Jenny joined The Health Connection team in May 2005 on opening day. As an original team member she has excelled in her knowledge of the inner and outer workings of the business.
Her passion for the health care field is evident by her personal interest in patient care for family members of all ages. In her spare time, Jenny along with her husband Adam, enjoy outdoor activities, working on their home and taking road trips to new and exciting destinations. Her genuine warmth and compassion is mirrored in her stellar smile as well as every greeting. She
is a tremendous asset to our team!

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Juliah Mora

Chiropractic Assistant

Juliah was born and raised in the Tacoma/Gig Harbor area. She joins our team with 6 years of experience in the medical field. Juliah is excited to expand her knowledge in the wellness field. She loves helping patients achieve their highest health endeavors. In her spare time she enjoys volunteering at Mt. Tahoma's College Success Foundation as well as spending time with her friends and family, especially her nieces and nephews. Her hobbies include: music & local arts, hiking and painting her nails.

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Ashley Ricard

Chiropractic Assistant/Marketing Director
ashricard@gmail.com

Ashley has rejoined The Health Connection team after taking a year off to travel over seas and spend time with her husband Shad, who is a firefighter in Kent. Originally from southern California, she moved to the Pacific Northwest in 2000. With a background in alternative health care, she enjoys assisting patients in achieving the highest quality health care possible, as well as, educating patients in the importance of preventative health care. Ashley thoroughly enjoys being a part of the strong team at The Health Connection where her work ethic, communication skills and initiative are utilized to the fullest!

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Chiropractors in Training

Jackson John Eyford

Chiropractor in training

Jackson, the son of Dr's Brad and Shannon Eyford, was born at home January 28th, 2005. He was adjusted within days of his birth and has been adjusted regularly since. Jackson is a sensitive sweet natured boy, who plays by the rules. He loves learning new things and you’ll frequently see him pick up a book on bugs or stones to “study” what he’s just found outside. He enjoys being a big brother and loves to teach Pearce all that he knows!

Pearce Bradley Eyford

Chiropractor in Training

Pearce, son of Dr's Brad and Shannon Eyford, was born at home on June 6th, 2007. He has no fear and keeps his parents on their toes by the constant climbing, jumping and moving fast. This is the child that wants to be at the highest point possible, with a sly look on his face, bends his knees and jumps....seeing how fast you can get there! He’s tough as nails and only cries if he is really hurt. He absolutely loves his big brother! He is interesting to watch play…as he is a “putterer”. Lining up his trucks so they are parked “just so” and digging in the dirt are a few of his favorite things!

The Eyford boys are truly "chiropractic kids". They are full of life and exude absolute health and happiness. They know that if they have a fall or start to get a sniffle, they need to get adjusted and will request it. They are well aware of the fact that adjustments help to balance the nervous system and improve immune function so they can function at their highest potential. It is not infrequent to catch them “adjusting” one another!