Today we’d like to introduce you to Natalia M. Lopez Vazquez.
Hi Natalia, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today?
I wanted to be a chiropractor since I was around nine years old. I had several personal situations that led to my parents making the great decision of taking me to a local chiropractor from an early age. I was always fascinated with what they did. Since the 7th grade, my dream was to move from Puerto Rico to Marietta, GA, to pursue the Doctor of Chiropractic degree at Life University. I was able to move there to attend my dream school and complete the degree. I truly believe that God arranged everything in my path to allow me to get to where I am today. I graduated in 2017 and had an amazing opportunity to work right away with another doctor in Marietta, GA. Not long after graduating, I found my passion with prenatal chiropractic and pediatric chiropractic.
Chiropractic care is very popular, rightfully so, when there is any type of back pain. But it does not stop there. Chiropractic is about wellness, about prevention. When we truly understand that a spine moving optimally will cause less interference in the nervous system, that our brain will communicate better with the rest of our bodies and that it will allow our bodies to adapt to our constantly changing environment, we will understand that there is no age limit when it comes to receiving chiropractic care. I started to attract more and more moms in the community and that’s something I thrive to do here in Raleigh. Although I had some extra knowledge from school about prenatal care and pediatrics, I decided to pursue my certification in prenatal care with the International Pediatric Chiropractic Association (ICPA). I am an active member, certified in the Webster technique, and close to finish my pediatric certification.
In 2019, one of my mentors from school called me to offer me a job opportunity here in Raleigh. By the time he called it was a few months until my previous contract was going to end. I decided to visit the city and his practice for a short time, came home, discussed with my husband our options, and shortly after we decided to accept the offer. I moved to Raleigh in November of 2019. I joined his practice, Falls Chiropractic and Injury in December 2019. It’s been an amazing opportunity. I have the pleasure to work with great people and an awesome mentor.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
I’ve been in practice now for four years but, needless to say, that starting here in Raleigh in December 2019 was literally starting from 0 plus a pandemic on the way made things challenging. On the other hand, as an introvert, I have to truly come out of my comfort zone when it comes to establishing relationships with the community. My goal is to be the best in what I do and be well established with other health care providers in the area, especially with the prenatal community.
When it comes to struggles along the way, there have been several. I moved to Georgia at a very young age with no family whatsoever. Although I had some friends there, there is nothing like being with family. The language barrier was challenging to overcome at first, but I did it. But at the same time, I have the advantage of serving the Hispanic community in the area, which is truly amazing.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
I am a Doctor of Chiropractic. I specialize in prenatal chiropractic and pediatric chiropractic. I’m an active member of the ICPA. With them, I’m certified in the Webster technique, which is “a specific chiropractic analysis and adjustment. The goal of the adjustment is to reduce the effects of subluxation and SI joint dysfunction. In so doing neuro-biomechanical function in the sacral/pelvic region is improved.” (J. Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health – May 10, 2012)
I am also credential by the Academy of Chiropractic through the State University at Buffalo School of Medicine to interprete MRI and extensive knowledge in the care of trauma patients, especially after a motor vehicle accident. We are also proud chiropractors of the Carolina Ballet. I thrive to provide the best care possible to each and every one of my patients. I value time and value quality. I like to listen and truly understand what is going on with each individual that comes to me.
Additionally, we are well established in our community; therefore, we have great relationships with different specialists in the area. Thus, if we cannot help you at our office, we will do our best to get you to the health care provider that will.
Let’s talk about our city – what do you love? What do you not love?
There is no traffic!!! Nothing, so far, compares to Atlanta traffic at any time of the day! Back in GA, we used to live about 15-20 minutes from my work with no traffic but, going back home in the afternoon I would take me 50-60 minute. Definitely do not miss that at all. Also, I love the balance between a small city (for now, because RDU is growing like crazy) and having the beach and the mountains not that far and easy for a short getaway. So far, I like everything the city has. We are still exploring and finding our favorite spots to hang out, eat, drink a good coffee, etc. The people I’ve met so far in practice and outside of the practice are truly amazing. I see a community that is growing and also seeking healthier lifestyles. My goal for the upcoming months and years is to continue to teach and educate our community about how powerful chiropractic care can be and that as a pregnant mom, there are alternative care for mom not to be miserable with pain during pregnancy.
Contact Info:
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: https://www.backhealthforyou.com/team-view/dr-natalia-lopez/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dr.natalialopez/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/drnataliadc/
Image Credits
Les Jolies Photography by Alexandra Laviano
