Melanie Faulkner, RMT

01/16/2026

Cortisone shots can seem super helpful when pain is flared, but they’re not “free relief.”

A few things people don’t always get told clearly…
✅The relief is often temporary (it calms symptoms, it doesn’t “fix” the root issue).
✅Repeated shots can have downsides -major medical sources warn risks can include cartilage damage and tendon weakening, especially with more frequent injections.
✅Some people get side effects like a temporary flare, skin thinning near the injection site, or blood sugar spikes.

Bottom line-you may want to share this article if your clients are considering a shot.

12/31/2025

Back pain without injury

Sometimes your back hurts even when nothing is damaged.
That doesn’t mean it’s “in your head”.
It means your nervous system is on high alert.

High stress, poor sleep, and low recovery increase muscle tone.
The body tightens up to protect you.
Pain becomes sensitivity, not structural damage.

What actually helps:
1. Lower overall stress load
When stress stays high, the nervous system stays defensive. Reducing daily stress lowers pain signals.
2. Improve sleep and recovery
Sleep is when the nervous system downshifts. Poor sleep keeps pain sensitivity high.
3. Use calm, controlled movement
Gentle, controlled movement tells the brain that motion is safe again.

You don’t fix this by pushing harder or avoiding movement.
You fix it by lowering the threat and restoring safety.

Comment “10” to start the 10-day mobility transformation and rebuild movement from the ground up.

12/24/2025

We’re hiring in the new year ✨

12/15/2025

10/24/2025

10/23/2025

Hello everyone,

Just a reminder that we are entering "busy season" for Massage Therapists.

I often stay late and come in early to accomodate as best as I can. So please keep your name on my waitlist if you cant find a spot that suits you.

But please know I cant create time that doesnt exist.

If you need a certain time or day, please book in advance. I work two evenings a week and these times often fill quickly.

✨

10/08/2025

More damning information against cortisone injections in the knee.

The more you have to more likely you will need a knee replacement-even if you do not have arthritis!!

“Conclusions: Intra-articular corticosteroid injections in patients without knee osteoarthritis at the time of injection are associated with a dose-dependent risk of TKA at 5 years. CSI may not be as benign of a treatment modality as previously thought.”

09/06/2025

I have now been at The Dartmouth Wellness Collective for 1 year!

It's wild how quickly a year can pass.

✨ Here's an update:

I am now solely operating at The Dartmouth Wellness Collective, and as of September you will find me here 5 days a week.

I have moved into a larger space within the clinic, which I will gradually be turning into the practice Ive dreamed of for years. I am excited and hopeful to finally have a workplace where I can grow and thrive, lay down roots & no longer feel temporary.

I am grateful to all past, present & new patients who have been there through the changes and challenges year after year. ✨

🌿

For those who may not know me, I am Melanie Faulkner. A Registered Massage Therapist & RAPID NeuroFascial Reset Specialist.

I specialize in the treatment of all painful conditions. From acute, to chronic, and even complex, rare or unusual cases.

RAPID NFR is my preferred method of treatment. The patient remains clothed, and actively participates in their treatment. I only do therapeutic work. I want you out of pain and then on with your life. Appointment lengths range from 15-45 minutes. Billable under Massage Therapy to your insurance provider.

🌿

September Availability:

Sept 22: 9:25am
Sept 23: 8:05am

Sept 29: 10:00am-12:30pm

To book 🗓️

https://dartmouthwellness.janeapp.com
902-580-3282
admin@dartmouthwellness.ca

or message me directly on this page.

🪴

08/20/2025

You probably have osteoarthritis…and that’s ok! 👍🏻

So do your patients and that’s ok too! 👍🏻

Ps…it’s actually common and actually most don’t know they have it. 👍🏻

https://bjsm.bmj.com/content/53/20/1268?fbclid=IwQ0xDSwMHzlxleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABHsyozWujPAuLU7QCsPdj-A22GdjbJLykYB44eIkJrvkj_36kdzRNBXCT1Sez_aem_dNdujVEYjfb3V2Ls8ybBfw