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SOT® Method Chiropratic
Gentle, whole body chiropractic care
The reason I use SOT® method chiropractic
I use Sacro Occipital Technic®, SOT® Method, because it respects how the body truly works, as one integrated system. Your pelvis, spine, cranium, extremities, and jaw move and communicate together. When that system drifts out of balance, nerves and fluids do not flow as they should, and you feel it as tension, pain, poor sleep, trouble concentrating, or low energy. SOT® gives me a precise way to find the primary pattern creating those issues and to correct it gently, so your body can self-regulate again.
When I went to chiropractic college, I did not want to be a chiropractor who just cracks bones. As I pursued a career as a doctor of chiropractic, I needed to understand the entire body and choose a specialization that could guide me through all the layers of health.
At a glance, SOT® helps me:
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Find the primary pattern, not just chase pain
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Use the least force necessary, with frequent re-testing
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Address the pelvis, spine, extremities, organs, cranium, and jaw as one system
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Integrate organ reflex procedures, CMRT, when indicated
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Tailor care for pregnancy, infants, TMJ, athletes, and desk-related strain and so much more
SOT® is centered on careful analysis and measurable change. I assess how your pelvis and sacrum are moving, how your spine and ribs are compensating, and how your cranium, extremities, and jaw are influencing nerve signaling and fluid dynamics. Then I use pelvic blocking, light force spinal and cranial corrections, and specific organ reflex procedures, CMRT, to address the true cause rather than chasing symptoms. Every correction is re-tested, which helps guide the least amount of input needed for the best response.
Because your nervous system controls every part of your body, even small disruptions can have a big impact. These imbalances can come from everyday wear and tear, emotional stress, or exposure to chemicals in our environment, and they often go unnoticed until symptoms appear.
I use SOT® because it is gentle, adaptable, and whole body focused. It works well for people who prefer care without twisting or forceful thrusts, for pregnancy comfort and Webster-based pelvic balance, for infants and children, for TMJ and headache patterns, and for complex or long-standing problems where details matter.
Patients often report easier breathing, steadier posture, less tension, better sleep, feeling light, improved resilience, and that the adjustment lasts way longer. Chiropractic care supports structure and function, results vary, and we coordinate with your other providers when appropriate.
Why do patients choose me?
Clear plans, measurable progress
You will understand the correlations I find between structure, organ function, and the emotional body, the corrections I make, and how we will measure change. We set goals together, I coordinate with your other providers when needed, and I offer simple home strategies that fit real life.
With my chiropractic license, and when appropriate and within scope, I can order blood work, imaging such as X-ray, CT, and MRI, and functional testing such as stool, urine, saliva, and hair analysis. While results are coming in, my SOT® system of analysis helps me guide lifestyle changes and functional and nutritional medicine protocols.
Who I help most
Pregnancy comfort and Webster-based pelvic balance, infants and children, TMJ and headache patterns, athletes and active adults, desk-related strain and posture issues, families navigating ADD, ADHD, and sensory processing challenges, children on the spectrum, complex or long-standing problems that need detail, from infant to adult.
Recognition and leadership
Dr. Stéphane is the chairman of research for SORSI. Dr. Stéphane was named Researcher of the Year 2009 by SORSI, America’s Chiropractors of the Year 2009, and from 2011 to 2020 by the Consumer Research Council of America, and received the Presidential Appreciation award from SORSI in 2010. Dr. Stéphane is the co-founder and primary developer of the SORSI EBRN, Evidence-Based Research Network, and an automated online case reporting system to improve chiropractic research. Dr. Stéphane was awarded Talk of the Town of Virginia from 2013 to 2024. Dr. Stéphane was nominated Best Holistic and Integrative Medicine Practitioner from 2016 to 2023 by the Gainesville award program.
What patients often notice
Easier breathing, steadier posture, less tension, better sleep, improved resilience, and adjustments that often 'hold/last' longer. Chiropractic supports structure and function, results vary, this page is educational and is not a substitute for medical care.
Ready to start
Book a free consult or schedule your first visit at Holistic Health Virginia in Old Town Manassas.
Frequently asked questions
What insurances do you accept?
Yes, for chiropractic services only, I am in network with Anthem, except Healthkeepers, Blue Cross Blue Shield, CareFirst, and Medicaid. We will verify your benefits before your appointment. Coverage varies by plan. Please call us and your insurance to check your health plan details.
Are chiropractors doctors?
Yes. Doctors of Chiropractic, DC, are licensed health care professionals. Chiropractors are not medical doctors, MD, or osteopathic physicians, DO, yet the education is rigorous, including foundational biomedical sciences, clinical internships, national board examinations, and state licensure. Chiropractors complete extensive coursework in anatomy, physiology, neuromusculoskeletal diagnosis, radiology, and nutrition.
What types of problems do chiropractors help with?
People commonly seek chiropractic care for various body pains, including back, neck, arm, leg, knee, abdominal, and head pain. Additionally, chiropractic care addresses headaches, TMJ and jaw tension, balance issues such as dizziness and vertigo, concentration and learning challenges, breastfeeding and latch support, and joint or muscle strains. Chiropractors also support posture, mobility, and recovery after daily strain or sports. Chiropractic supports structure and function; results vary by individual. We coordinate with your other providers when needed.
What is a chiropractic adjustment?
An adjustment is a specific, controlled force applied in a precise direction to a joint that is not moving well or appropriately aligned. The aim is to improve alignment and motion and to reduce interference in nerve signaling, which can support more efficient coordination and comfort in muscles, tendons, fascia, and joints. Many patients notice easier movement, less tension, and improved comfort as function changes.
Do adjustments hurt?
Adjustments are highly controlled, and I use minimal force. Most people are comfortable during care, and many feel relief right away. With infants, the touch is very light and often soothing. Temporary soreness can feel like starting a new exercise routine. Drinking water, using an ice pack for short intervals, and light stretching can help ease discomfort.
Are adjustments safe?
Spinal adjustments are generally considered safe when performed by a licensed chiropractor. As with any form of care, there are risks and benefits, which we will review with you before starting.
Why do adjustments sometimes make a popping sound (cracking noise)?
The sound is a release of gas from the joint fluid as pressure changes, similar to opening a bottle. The adjustment affects the joint and surrounding soft tissues, not the bones themselves. Even with gentle methods, this can still occur.
Are all patients adjusted the same way?
No, care is individualized. I tailor techniques to your size, age, health history, and goals, and adjust them based on the patterns I observe during each visit or a few visits. I then retest after each correction to confirm the change.
What can I expect on my first appointment?
At your first appointment, we begin by discussing the reasons you are seeking care and reviewing your full history, including areas of concern, past surgeries, and prior injuries. Next, a comprehensive chiropractic, orthopedic, and neurological examination is performed, along with a Sacro Occipital Technic (SOT) evaluation. Once the assessment is complete, I will explain which areas may be contributing to your symptoms and how they connect to your health concerns. If needed, I may recommend additional lab work, imaging, or referral to other providers. When no contraindications are present, a gentle chiropractic adjustment is typically provided on the same day.
Will a chiropractic adjustment completely remove back, neck, or joint pain?
Some people experience significant relief quickly, while others improve gradually. Results depend on your findings, daily activities, and how your body responds. We will set goals together and measure progress along the way.
Can I see a chiropractor if I am pregnant?
Yes. Techniques are adapted for each stage of pregnancy. SOT® and Webster-based pelvic balancing are gentle options many expectant mothers prefer. Over 18 years of experience informs a visit schedule that aims to support comfort and pelvic balance throughout pregnancy and to prepare the body for labor.
Do you see infants and children?
Yes, with light-touch, age-appropriate methods. Families often seek care for feeding and latch support, head preference, torticollis patterns, or posture. Research on pediatric manual therapy is evolving; most reported side effects are mild and temporary, and high-quality data on rare events are limited. We collaborate with your pediatrician as needed.
Will I be required to remove clothing at my appointment?
Most tests do not require removing clothing. If a procedure would be easier with a gown or shorts, we will explain why, offer options, and prioritize your comfort.
Can I learn to adjust myself?
Self-adjusting is not recommended. Chiropractors are trained to deliver corrections in a specific location and direction after testing. We can teach safe home mobility and stability exercises instead.
Do I need a referral to see a chiropractor?
No. In Virginia, most people can see a chiropractor without a referral. Some insurance plans may still require one, so we verify benefits for you.
How long is the first visit, and what should I bring?
Plan on 45 to 60 minutes for history, exam, and initial care. Bring a list of medications and supplements, a timeline of emotional stressors (little t and big T), and comfortable clothing. As far as past imaging or test results, I prefer having them in advance. Please email them to us or mail them to our address.
How many visits will I need?
It depends on your findings and goals. Many people notice changes within a few visits, and then we space out visits as your body holds corrections longer. I typically determine within 4 to 6 visits whether we are on the right path to health for your goals.
How often will I be adjusted?
Frequency is based on your exam, your response to care, and your day-to-day demands. We re-test each visit and adjust your plan accordingly. I do not use preset plans, such as three times a week for three to six weeks; the body does not always respond in a fixed schedule.
Do you offer care without “cracking”?
Yes. SOT chiropractic uses low-force methods, including pelvic blocks and gentle cranial work. We choose the least force necessary and confirm changes with re-testing.
Can I use HSA or FSA funds for chiropractic/all services at Holistic Health Virginia?
Yes, all services at Holistic Health Virginia are under a professional business license. We suggest contacting your plan administrator directly in case your plan rules are different.
What should I wear to my appointment?
Wear loose, comfortable clothing that lets you move easily and stay modest. Athletic shorts, leggings, or loose pants are helpful for spine and hip checks; a t-shirt or sports bra works well for the upper body. Please remove bulky belts, heavy jewelry, and wallets from pockets during the exam. If you have long hair, bring a hair tie so we can see the neck and cranial landmarks. Out of respect for scent-sensitive patients, please avoid strong fragrances. Women may wish to avoid dresses or skirts, as well as restrictive tops.
What can parents expect when they bring their infant or children?
Visits are calm, family-friendly, and paced to your child. We begin with a comprehensive history, including birth details and feeding for infants, followed by development and school or other practitioners’ notes, if applicable, for children. This is then complemented by a gentle exam using SOT pediatric analysis. Touch is light, and cranial and spinal checks are performed using either fingertip pressure or an adjustment tool. No twisting or cracking is involved. You can hold your baby, nurse, or bottle feed at any time; many babies relax or nap during care.
Bring a diaper bag, extra clothes, a favorite blanket, and a pacifier if your child uses one. First visits are typically longer, allowing us to listen and test carefully. Follow-ups are shorter, focusing on re-testing any changes and continuing the treatment plan.
I explain each step, answer questions, and obtain consent before we begin. Crying is communication; we pause and comfort as needed. Siblings are welcome, and if possible, a second adult can be helpful. When appropriate, we coordinate with your pediatrician, lactation consultant, dentist, or other providers, and we send you home with simple positioning and tummy time ideas.
Do I need to come back for the rest of my life?
No. My goal is to correct the pattern of distortion, improve your nervous system and whole body function, and then equip you with tools and strategies to maintain your health at home. Life brings new stresses and activities, so many patients choose periodic check-ups to maintain progress. We tailor visit frequency to your goals and how well your body holds corrections, and we reassess together over time.