Trusted Chiropractor in South Burlington, VT

Chiropractic First treats a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions and pain-related issues. Our most common cases include low back pain, neck pain, sciatica, herniated and bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, neuropathy, headaches, and migraines.

We also treat sports injuries, auto accident injuries, work-related injuries, shoulder pain, knee pain, hip pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, plantar fasciitis, and other extremity conditions. Dr. Townsend’s diverse training allows him to address conditions that many other providers refer out.

Whether your pain started from a specific injury or has developed gradually over time, we focus on identifying the root cause rather than just masking symptoms. Visit our conditions treated page for a complete list, or call (802) 474-4258 to discuss your specific situation.

Dr. Townsend uses a thorough, multi-step diagnostic process to identify exactly what is causing your pain. Your evaluation begins with a detailed conversation about your health history, when your symptoms started, what makes them better or worse, and any prior treatments you have tried.

Next, he performs a comprehensive physical examination that includes orthopedic testing, neurological assessment, range of motion evaluation, and palpation of the spine and affected areas. If clinically indicated, digital X-rays are taken on-site to visualize spinal alignment, disc spacing, and any structural abnormalities.

All of this information is combined to build a clear picture of your condition. Dr. Townsend then sits down with you to explain his findings in plain language, discusses your diagnosis, and outlines a recommended treatment plan with realistic expectations for recovery. This thorough approach is what allows him to develop truly personalized care rather than applying a generic protocol.

Yes, Chiropractic First accepts most major insurance plans including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, Aetna, United Healthcare, Medicare, and many others. We also work with auto insurance and workers’ compensation carriers for injury-related cases.

Before your first visit, our office will verify your insurance benefits so you know exactly what is covered and what your out-of-pocket costs will be. We handle the paperwork and billing directly with your insurance company to make the process as simple as possible.

If you have questions about your specific plan or would like us to check your benefits before scheduling, call us at (802) 474-4258 and we will be happy to help.

Your first visit to Chiropractic First is designed to be thorough and informative. Plan for approximately 45 to 60 minutes so Dr. Townsend can take the time needed to properly evaluate your condition.

When you arrive, you will complete a brief intake form covering your health history and current symptoms. Dr. Townsend will then sit down with you for a one-on-one consultation to discuss your pain, how it affects your daily life, and what your goals are for treatment.

Following the consultation, he performs a comprehensive examination including orthopedic and neurological testing. If X-rays are needed, they are taken on-site during the same visit. Once all the information is gathered, Dr. Townsend reviews his findings with you, explains your diagnosis, and presents a recommended treatment plan. In many cases, you will receive your first treatment on the same day.

Ready to get started? Schedule your first visit or call (802) 474-4258.

Yes, spinal decompression therapy is a safe, FDA-cleared, non-surgical treatment for disc injuries. At Chiropractic First, we use the SpineMED system, which is one of the most advanced and well-researched decompression platforms available.

The treatment works by gently stretching the spine using precise, computer-controlled traction. This creates negative pressure within the disc, which helps retract herniated or bulging disc material and promotes the flow of nutrients and oxygen into the damaged disc. Most patients find the treatment comfortable and relaxing — many even fall asleep during sessions.

Dr. Townsend has over 17 years of experience performing spinal decompression therapy and carefully screens every patient to ensure they are a good candidate before beginning treatment. Conditions that respond well to decompression include herniated discs, bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, sciatica, and spinal stenosis.

To learn more, visit our spinal decompression page or call (802) 474-4258 to find out if decompression is right for you.