Dr. Emmerich and a patient at the consult table with an X-ray on the screen

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.

1

Consultation

We sit down and talk. What hurts, how long, what you have tried, and what you want to get back to.

2

Exam

A focused exam of how your spine and joints are moving. X-rays if they are needed to see what is going on.

3

Findings and a plan

A plain explanation of what we found and what we recommend, including how many visits and what it costs.

4

First treatment

If it makes sense and you are ready, care starts the same day.

Dr. Emmerich at the consult table with a patient Dr. Emmerich pointing at a spine X-ray with a patient Dr. Emmerich working on a patient's leg on the table

Before you come

Fill out the new patient forms at home so the first visit is about you, not paperwork.

Fill out forms online

What 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.

About the Good Faith Estimate

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

Monday10am to 6pm
Tuesday10am to 6pm
WednesdayClosed
Thursday10am to 6pm
Friday7am to 11am
Saturday and SundayClosed

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.

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.
Nathan W. Google review
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.
Sue M. Google review
If you are on the fence about visiting a chiro, this is your sign to do it!! I am SO glad I found Central Health.
Alayna S. Google review
My monthly adjustments keep my body feeling great and allow me to still enjoy all of my favorite outdoor activities without the lingering pain.
Ian K. Google review
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!
Kirsten T. Google review
Dr Lucas is so kind, efficient, and knowledgeable! He treated both myself and my newborn with equal expertise. Can't recommend him enough!
Alexa K. Google review
I get excellent care and results at Central Health from Dr. Emmerich!
Diane L. Google review
Dr Emmerich is very personable. He makes me feel at ease with my adjustments. He listens to what I'm struggling with and addresses the issues as they come up.
Sarah G. Google review
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!!
Trevor A. Google review
Dr Lucas is fantastic and very knowledgeable. I highly recommend him for chiropractic care.
Laura D. Google review
Kind, caring, and compassionate. Lucas is an awesome doctor who truly cares about each of his patients' health goals. I would recommend him to anyone living with pain or trying to achieve optimal wellness.
Justin S. Google review
Everyone is so friendly and helpful. Dr Lucas does a great job going through everything and explaining your plan of care. He does so much more than any chiropractor I've been to in the past.
Beverly M. Google review
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