Born and raised right here in Calgary, Dr. Jay Shephard graduated from Palmer College of Chiropractic West in 1992.
Driven by a passion for advanced biomechanics and injury recovery, he became a pioneer in soft-tissue therapy, proudly introducing Active Release Techniques (A.R.T.) to Western Canada. He holds advanced A.R.T. certification and has been a sought-after active instructor of the technique since 1998. He was also one of the very first practitioners to bring the Graston Technique to Calgary patients. With over 30 years of clinical experience assessing injuries and correcting biomechanical dysfunction, "Dr. Jay" provides expert manual therapy and corrective exercise rehabilitation to anyone seeking relief.
Dr. Sam Llewellyn Shephard and I work with high performers who are trying to manage a busy career, an active and athletic lifestyle, and a life at home.
As an athlete I competed in some of the most physically and mentally demanding sports in the world, training at the highest levels of Muay Thai, Kickboxing, and alpine ski racing. Across 2 decades of training in these sports, I accumulated many high trauma injuries and got used to sacrificing my health to achieve the high performing goals in my life. Thankfully, my father Dr. Jayson Shephard, owner and founder of Shephard Health, was by my side supporting my body and mind every step of the way. Unlike other doctors, the underlying issues were consistently being addressed, affording me great levels of success in all aspects of my life. The realization that I didn’t have to just “work harder” but instead work smarter planted a seed for me which later inspired me to help others holistically like I was helped by my father.
Outside of the ring and slopes, my time was deeply enriched with the fine arts, especially sketching, painting and sculpting. At my core, I am an artist. The skills I learned through over 2 decades of fine arts training inspired a meticulous level of attention to detail that is present in every aspect of my life, including patient care. Chiropractic adjustments, active release technique, shockwave, laser, spinal decompression, and strength based rehab are my brush strokes on the canvas that is the art of recovery.
This is what makes me so passionate about working with high-performing people. Trying to manage a busy career, an active lifestyle, and showing up in all the ways you’re needed at home while you’re too fatigued to exercise, and tired to even sleep is frustrating. I want to work with you to show you that your body is strong and resilient, not broken. Your body is powerful beyond all measure but requires the right strategy and support to combat and overcome the cumulative stressors from all aspects of life.
My goal is to make sure you are seen, heard, and felt in the ways you need, and together we will work to re-train a strong connection with your mind and body. You will rediscover your potential, and reconnect with what makes your life art.
Being an avid practitioner in Martial Arts for 7 years ongoing, I am no stranger to injuries, soreness, and the effects of wear and tear. This led me to pursue a career in Massage therapy.
Acquiring the knowledge I need to better understand the body and the importance of recovery and self care. As a dedicated RMT, I specialize in helping clients reduce pain, restore mobility, and reconnect with their bodies through evidence-informed, personalized care. My practice focuses on but is not limited to myofascial/active release, relaxation massage, therapeutic massage, cupping therapy, and trigger point therapy, allowing me to address both acute and chronic conditions with a well-rounded, holistic approach.
I am passionate about creating a safe, supportive environment where clients feel heard and understood. Whether you’re seeking relief from tension, recovering from injury, or looking to improve overall well-being, each treatment is tailored to meet your unique needs and goals. By blending structural assessment with hands-on techniques, I aim to promote balance, reduce pain, and help clients move with greater ease and comfort.