Your first visit
The first step is a free consultation. It is a conversation about what is going on and whether we can help. Nothing starts that day unless you want it to.
Your first visit, start to finish
About 45 minutes. Wear comfortable clothes you can move in.
Consultation
We sit down and talk. What hurts, how long, what you have tried, and what you want to get back to.
Exam
A focused exam of how your spine and joints are moving. X-rays if they are needed to see what is going on.
Findings and a plan
A plain explanation of what we found and what we recommend, including how many visits and what it costs.
First treatment
If it makes sense and you are ready, care starts the same day.
Before you come
Fill out the new patient forms at home so the first visit is about you, not paperwork.
Fill out forms onlineWhat to bring
- Photo ID
- Insurance card, if you have one
- Any recent X-rays, MRI reports, or notes from another provider
- A list of medications
Insurance and payment
We are in network with most major commercial insurance plans and with Medicare. Bring your card and we will check your benefits before your first treatment, so you know what to expect. If you are paying yourself, there is a direct-pay discount, and we give you a written estimate before care starts. We take cash, cards, HSA and FSA funds, and checks.
Questions people ask
We are in network with most major commercial plans and with Medicare. Bring your card and we check your benefits before any treatment. If you are paying yourself, there is a direct-pay discount.
No. You can schedule directly.
It depends on what we find. Some people need a handful, some choose ongoing care. You will get a clear recommendation after the exam, and it is always your call.
Yes, with light techniques made for them, and parents stay in the room.
Yes. Care is adapted for pregnancy, and many patients come in specifically for it.
Bring your records. Many people with a history of surgery can still be treated, with the approach adjusted for what was done.
Often, if the exam supports it and you want to. Never before you understand what we found.
Hours
| Monday | 10am to 6pm |
| Tuesday | 10am to 6pm |
| Wednesday | Closed |
| Thursday | 10am to 6pm |
| Friday | 7am to 11am |
| Saturday and Sunday | Closed |
The office is at 1451 Bluestem Blvd Suite C in Altoona, a few minutes from Eau Claire.
A few things Dr. Emmerich recommends at home: shoes and mattresses.
Ready when you are
A free consultation is a conversation, not a commitment.
5.0 on Google from 144 reviews
In their words, straight from Google.
I get excellent care and results at Central Health from Dr. Emmerich!
I started seeing Dr Emmerich for neuropathy. I was in constant pain even though I had very little feeling in my feet. In just 3 months the pain is gone and I have feeling in my feet.
Dr. Lucas saved me after a back injury. Everyone at Central Health is so kind and compassionate. I will forever be grateful to Central Health!
Dr Lucas is fantastic and very knowledgeable. I highly recommend him for chiropractic care.
Exceeded expectations! Dr Lucas is smart, thoughtful, careful, experienced, and a good listener as he joins with his patients to support greater quality of life.
My monthly adjustments keep my body feeling great and allow me to still enjoy all of my favorite outdoor activities without the lingering pain.
Dr Lucas is awesome, what a great chiropractor. I have been having pain in my lower back for a while and I just couldn't find someone that was able to help me relieve my pain.
Dr. Lucas has helped me tremendously throughout my pregnancy. He listens to my needs and takes the time to explain his approach each time I visit.
Dr Lucas is so kind, efficient, and knowledgeable! He treated both myself and my newborn with equal expertise. Can't recommend him enough!
Always greeted with a smile when entering. Dr. Lucas thoroughly explains his plan of treatment and how he will help his patients with their pain management. Highly recommended!!
I have been treated by Dr. Emmerich for a few weeks. Unlike other providers I have been to, he has already made a significant difference in my life.
He listens to your concerns and goals and helps come up with a treatment plan that fits your needs. He is very knowledgeable and kind and I always feel so much better walking out of his office!