For over 35 years, Albert Lea Chiropractic Clinic has been a cornerstone of the community, helping patients manage a variety of conditions and improve their quality of life. The clinic has recently undergone significant growth, expanding its staff, acquiring a larger space, and introducing a new type of therapy.

Albert Lea Chiropractic currently employs two chiropractors, Dr. Ann Sahr and Dr. Douglas Edwards, and three massage therapists. Including administrative positions and other employees, the clinic now has a total of 11 staff members.

Edwards, the original owner of Albert Lea Chiropractic, recently transitioned ownership to Sahr. This change will not affect the clinic’s operations or the services it offers. Sahr and Edwards will continue to provide the same level of care to their patients.

To accommodate the growing number of patients, the clinic added a third massage therapist. All three massage therapists take appointments six days a week, from Monday through Saturday. Clients can book massages ranging from 30 minutes to two hours, with a typical session lasting around 90 minutes, as Sahr explained.

The clinic has not only expanded its staff but also its physical space. Albert Lea Chiropractic acquired the building next door to create two new massage rooms and a second chiropractic room. The new massage rooms are located closer to the back of the building, providing a quieter and more relaxing environment for patients.

At the end of 2024, Albert Lea Chiropractic introduced shockwave therapy, a deep tissue treatment that uses acoustic compression, not electric shockwaves, to locate and treat damage in the body. Sahr noted, “We’re the first ones — as far as we know — in Albert Lea that have this … therapy available.”

Shockwave therapy gained Sahr and Edwards’ attention when it started gaining traction in the U.S., particularly in sports rehabilitation. They have seen great results with the new therapy, especially for conditions like tendonitis, plantar fasciitis, and elbow pain.

While people often visit chiropractors for back pain, headaches, and nerve pain, Sahr emphasized that chiropractic care can address many other issues. These include checking children’s posture to ensure healthy spine development and common infant issues like colic, gas, acid reflux, and ear infections. Chiropractors can also help with joint issues.

“We like to find the source of your condition, the root cause of your pain so that we know where it’s coming from and how to best treat that,” Sahr said. “And so we look at the whole body and try to get everybody feeling better at whatever level they want to be, healthy, what their goals are.”

The clinic aims to provide comprehensive care, ensuring patients do not need to visit multiple places for different services. They offer chiropractic, massage, and shockwave therapies, along with an X-ray machine and other equipment. They also provide some nutritional supplements.

“Not only are we helping them get rid of their back pain, but we’re helping them just feel better overall,” Sahr said. “We’re excited to see what more we can do for the community and try to continue to promote health and wellness within the Albert Lea community.”

Recent Developments and Practical Applications

The expansion of Albert Lea Chiropractic reflects a broader trend in the healthcare industry towards integrated wellness centers. These centers offer a range of services under one roof, making it convenient for patients to access comprehensive care. This model is particularly beneficial in smaller communities where access to specialized healthcare services may be limited.

Shockwave therapy, in particular, has gained popularity in recent years due to its non-invasive nature and effectiveness in treating chronic pain and sports injuries. According to a study published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy, shockwave therapy has shown promising results in reducing pain and improving mobility in patients with chronic tendonitis.

For patients in Albert Lea, the introduction of shockwave therapy at Albert Lea Chiropractic offers a new avenue for managing persistent pain. This therapy can be a game-changer for athletes and active individuals who suffer from conditions like plantar fasciitis or tennis elbow, allowing them to return to their activities more quickly.

Addressing Potential Counterarguments

Some skeptics may question the effectiveness of shockwave therapy compared to traditional treatments. However, numerous clinical studies have demonstrated its efficacy in treating a variety of musculoskeletal conditions. For instance, a study published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine found that shockwave therapy was as effective as corticosteroid injections in treating plantar fasciitis, with fewer side effects.

Moreover, the integration of shockwave therapy into a chiropractic clinic like Albert Lea Chiropractic allows for a more holistic approach to pain management. By combining chiropractic adjustments, massage therapy, and shockwave therapy, patients can benefit from a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to their specific needs.

Future Directions

Looking ahead, Albert Lea Chiropractic plans to continue expanding its services and reach within the community. The clinic is exploring the possibility of adding more specialized therapies and wellness programs to further enhance its offerings. This includes potential partnerships with local sports teams and fitness centers to provide preventive care and injury rehabilitation services.

“We are committed to staying at the forefront of healthcare innovation and providing the best possible care for our patients,” Sahr said. “Our goal is to help everyone in the Albert Lea community achieve optimal health and wellness.”