Dr. Kirsten K. Shepard, LMT, DC: A Pioneer in Integrative Healthcare and Plant-Based Therapeutics
Dr. Kirsten K. Shepard, LMT, DC
Dr. Kirsten K. Shepard, affectionately known as Dr. K, has dedicated over two decades to advancing integrative healthcare practices. Her multidisciplinary approach seamlessly blends medical, chiropractic, acupuncture, and physical therapy methodologies, offering comprehensive, patient-centered care. With clinics established across Texas and Los Angeles, Dr. Shepard's influence extends beyond clinical practice into education, advocacy, and entrepreneurial ventures in plant-based therapeutics.
Early Life and Education
Dr. Shepard's journey into holistic health care began over 12 years ago in Austin, Texas, where she trained as a massage therapist at the Lauterstein-Conway Massage School. She furthered her education at the University of Texas-Austin and graduated from Parker College of Chiropractic in Dallas. Her early career included practicing in Los Angeles, California, where she specialized in integrative pre-natal care and sports medicine, fostering a passion for treating athletes.
Professional Practice and Integrative Approach
Upon returning to Austin, Dr. Shepard founded Longevity Wellness Group, now known as Rational Longevity Medicine & Wellness. Her practice specializes in medical rehabilitation for work-related injuries, offering services such as medical care, chiropractic adjustments, acupuncture, decompression therapy, massage therapy, physical rehabilitation, Reiki, and non-surgical knee pain relief solutions.
Dr. Shepard's integrative approach emphasizes whole-body wellness, combining various therapeutic modalities to address the root causes of pain and dysfunction. Her commitment to patient-centered care has earned her recognition as one of Austin's top healthcare providers.
Advocacy and Education in Plant-Based Medicine
Dr. Shepard's personal experiences have significantly influenced her professional endeavors. In 2015, her father was diagnosed with mesothelioma, leading her to explore alternative therapies to alleviate his pain and improve his quality of life. This exploration into the healing potential of cannabinoids inspired her to develop her own line of hemp-based products, culminating in the establishment of TrueStopper.
As a dedicated educator, Dr. Shepard leads educational sessions for healthcare professionals, sharing evidence-based knowledge on plant-based therapeutics. She actively contributes to organizations such as Texas NORML, the Minority Cannabis Business Association, the National Cannabis Industry Association, and the Drug Policy Alliance, advocating for equitable access to cannabis education and policy reform.
Entrepreneurship and TrueStopper
TrueStopper, founded by Dr. Shepard, is a holistic health company specializing in professionally formulated, regenerative plant-based products designed to manage chronic pain and support overall wellness. The product line includes hemp-based salves, roll-ons, patches, and extracts that are scientifically proven, triple lab-tested, natural, and non-addictive.
Dr. Shepard's innovative approach has positioned TrueStopper as one of Austin's first female Black-owned cannabis businesses. Her commitment to quality and transparency ensures that all products undergo rigorous testing, providing safe and effective alternatives to traditional pain management therapies.
Awards and Recognitions
Dr. Shepard's contributions to healthcare have been widely recognized. She has been honored as a Profile of Prominence award recipient in Health Professions by the Texas legislature and received a Special Congressional Recognition from a Texas United States Senator. Her achievements have been featured in publications such as Ujama Magazine and Austin Fit Magazine, highlighting her impact on the health and fitness communities.
Professional Affiliations and Community Engagement
Beyond her clinical practice and entrepreneurial ventures, Dr. Shepard maintains active involvement in several professional organizations. She serves on the executive board of the American Black Chiropractic Association and is a member of the Texas Chiropractic Association and the OUM/PICA medical advisory board. Her leadership extends to civic and professional arenas, where she advocates for diversity and inclusion within the healthcare industry.
Personal Philosophy and Impact
Dr. Shepard's personal philosophy centers on empowering individuals to take control of their health through natural and integrative approaches. Her dedication to education, patient advocacy, and community engagement reflects a holistic perspective on wellness that transcends traditional medical paradigms. By integrating diverse therapeutic modalities, she addresses the physical, emotional, and spiritual aspects of health, fostering a comprehensive approach to healing.
Conclusion
Dr. Kirsten K. Shepard's career exemplifies a commitment to integrative healthcare, patient advocacy, and innovative approaches to pain management. Her work bridges the gap between conventional medicine and holistic therapies, offering patients comprehensive care options that prioritize wellness and quality of life. Through her clinical practice, educational initiatives, and entrepreneurial endeavors, Dr. Shepard continues to influence the evolving landscape of healthcare, inspiring both her peers and the communities she serves.
