About Us
Welcome to the Therkelsen Wellness Center
My Chiropractic story begins with my first adjustment, during my first vacation, while attending classes with my brother and mentor when I was 15 years old. It was July of 1977, my brother Richard was a student doctor at Palmer College of Chiropractic (now Palmer University) in Davenport, IA. He saved his money as a “paper boy” – (for those of you too young to know what that is – when we were the newspaper was the way to “be connected” to what was going on, and as a first job many boys delivered the paper to people’s houses every day). I digress. Anyway – Richard paid for my first plane ride on People’s Express. Again, for those who don’t remember People’s Express – you actually paid for your flight in the air! I just can’t understand how they went out of business!! While sitting in my brother’s Philosophy of Chiropractic class I realized my desire to be a “different” type of doctor would be satisfied by becoming a Chiropractor.
I knew I wanted to be a doctor. I’d never taken, nor wanted to take drugs. As a child my family didn’t take medication. We were raised to rest, eat our veggies and “sweat it out” if we were not feeling well. So, the traditional medical doctor didn’t match my view of wellness. Enter Chiropractic. The rest, as they say, is history.
I graduated Palmer in 1987, learned different styles of practicing and then opened Therkelsen Chiropractic Center on November 12, 1990. My practice is a real Family Practice. I am joined by my niece – Aubrey who is practicing Acupuncture. We are joined my Nancy – our Office Manager who simply does everything and has been with me for nearly 20 years.
My youngest patient – Justin – was just hours old when he received his first adjustment from me. His mom – Terri – received care prior to his conception, during her pregnancy and afterwards. “Little Ricky” was adjusted on his way home from the hospital. My most senior patient was Antonio who was 96 years young.
My practice extends to your four-legged family members as well. Zues was adjusted as a puppy until he was 16 years old. His owner Kyle (my most dedicated to his health patient has been with me for over 30 years!) would have to carry an ailing Zusi into my office. Once adjusted he appeared to dance out on his own!
So, as you see Chiropractic is for all ages and all family members. I am honored and excited to be part of your wellness journey whether it be to get healthy or stay healthy. Chiropractic is a science, an art, and a philosophy of natural health. Founded by DD Palmer and his first patient Harry Lillard – a def janitor who was able to hear after his first adjustment! Chiropractic is not about pain – it’s about an optimally functioning central nervous system, brain, spinal cord and nerves. Remove the subluxation (nerve interference) and watch what the body can do!! Health is not external (drugs), however if a system has been unhealthy or compromised, drugs along with Chiropractic may be necessary. Great health begins with the removal of subluxation, proper nutrition, exercise, rest and a positive mental attitude (the desire and belief to get and stay well). Chiropractic, acupuncture, meditation, yoga, breathing properly (we all do it, now pay attention to how to do it).
Let’s get started on our journey together…..
Our Team
Dr. Kathleen Therkelsen
