Michael Herbert

Michael Herbert is a chiropractor and is a Partner at our Gouda clinic. He has a strong background in spine health, sports performance and functional movement. Michael graduated from the University of Johannesburg in South Africa and has been practicing since 2017. Before joining Chiropractie Centraal as a Partner, he owned and operated a sport- and family‑focused practice in South Africa, where he became known for his clear communication, detailed assessments and practical, patient‑first approach.

Focus on Spine‑Related Complaints and Sports Injuries

People often seek Michael’s expertise for:

• Long‑standing back discomfort
• Ongoing neck and shoulder issues
• Headaches or migraines linked to the cervical spine
• Disc‑related conditions such as herniation, degeneration or arthritis
• Pain or movement limitations connected to running or athletic activity

Michael works with a wide range of patients, from active adults, children, and (recreational) athletes to individuals managing the demands of work, family and training. His sports‑chiropractic background helps him guide people who want to move better, recover fully and maintain long‑term physical resilience.

Experience With Athletes, Runners and Complex Cases

Michael has completed advanced training with leading chiropractic educators including Heidi Haavik and Martin Harvey, and holds the ICCSP (International Certified Chiropractic Sports Practitioner) qualification.

His clinical experience includes:

• Sports injuries and overuse conditions
• Running gait inefficiencies and biomechanical overload
• Disc herniations and degenerative disc disease
• Neurological symptoms such as radiating pain or numbness
• Cases where previous treatments offered limited improvement

His additional training at the Running School and Analysis strengthens his ability to analyze movement patterns, identify underlying issues and help patients return to efficient, confident performance.

Thorough, Collaborative and Evidence‑Informed Care

Michael begins each consultation by taking time to understand:

• The patient’s main concerns
• How symptoms influence daily life, work or sport
• What goals or activities they want to return to

He then performs a structured examination, which may include:

• Spinal and neurological testing
• Movement and gait evaluation
• Postural and functional assessment

His aim is to pinpoint which structures are contributing to the problem and determine whether improving spinal or movement function will support recovery.

Clear explanations, realistic planning and shared decision‑making guide his approach.

Treatment Approach

Michael focuses on restoring efficient, safe movement in joints and tissues that are restricted or overloaded. His care may include:

• HVLA diversified adjustments
• Sports‑specific chiropractic techniques
• SOT (Sacro Occipital Technique)
• Exercise and movement strategies for long‑term improvement
• Running analysis and performance‑oriented coaching

He is open and honest about the limits of chiropractic care and refers patients when another form of treatment is more appropriate.

Education & Professional Background

Michael earned his MTec Chiropractic degree from the University of Johannesburg. He also holds the ICCSP certificate (International Certified Chiropractic Sports Practitioner). Michael has completed further training with leading chiropractic experts such as Heidi Haavik and Martin Harvey. Additionally, he is actively involved with coaching (new) chiropractors and facilitates peer‑review and intervision case discussions.

He is registered with:

• ICA — Lifetime Membership
• SNRC
• DCF

What Patients Can Expect

Patients describe Michael as approachable, attentive and highly engaged. He listens carefully, explains clearly and works collaboratively with each person. His passion for movement extends beyond the clinic: he has completed multiple Ironman races and enjoys kite surfing, mountain biking, and hiking. He also has a creative eye for photography.

His goal is simple: to help people move with confidence, reduce pain and return to the activities that make their life meaningful.

Michael Herbert is registered with all Dutch health insurers with the AGB-code: 90111394.

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