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Book Appointment

(802) 657-3000

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GET BACK TO LIVING
Pain is not a lifestyle.
Your journey to wellness starts here.

South Burlington’s Clinic for Chronic Pain, Disc Issues & Spinal Health

Exceptional chiropractic care in South Burlington, VT

Chiropractic First provides individualized chiropractic care for patients in South Burlington and nearby Vermont communities who are dealing with chronic or unexplained pain. Our focus is on identifying the true source of spinal and nerve related issues, especially when pain involves disc problems, radiating symptoms, or loss of mobility. This approach helps our patients experience real lasting improvement rather than short lived relief.
Since opening in 2001, we have helped thousands of patients regain comfort and function through targeted chiropractic adjustments, soft tissue therapies, and fully personalized treatment plans. Our priority is to deliver clear answers and effective long term solutions for people who have tried many types of care without success.

Our Services

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Chiropractic Adjustments
Gentle, precise spinal corrections that restore alignment, improve mobility, and reduce chronic or recurring pain.
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Spinal Decompression
Non-surgical traction therapy that relieves disc pressure, reduces nerve irritation, and promotes natural healing.
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Extremity Adjusting
Targeted joint adjustments for shoulders, knees, wrists, or ankles to improve function and reduce discomfort.
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Workers Compensation
Chiropractic care focused on treating work related injuries, restoring movement, and supporting a safe return to daily and job activities.
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Personal Injury Care
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Customized recovery plans that promote healing, restore mobility, and reduce pain following accidents or injuries.
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Graston Therapy
Graston Therapy uses stainless steel instruments to detect and treat areas of soft tissue restriction.
Meet the Chiropractor
Dr. Mike Townsend DC
Chiropractor
A Vermont chiropractor with 25 years of experience helping patients overcome chronic pain through precise, individualized treatment and compassionate guidance.

Conditions We Help at Chiropractic First

We specialize in identifying the underlying spinal, disc, and nerve-related issues that cause persistent or unexplained pain. Explore the conditions below, organized into categories for clarity.

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Low Back Pain
Targeted care that reduces inflammation, improves mobility, and restores normal movement patterns.

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Neck Pain
Treatment focused on correcting alignment issues and relieving muscle and nerve tension.

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Disc Injuries
Therapies that help reduce disc pressure and support natural healing.

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Herniated Discs
Spinal decompression and corrective care that relieve nerve irritation and improve function.

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Degenerative Disc Disease
Supportive care that improves joint mobility and decreases long term discomfort.
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Where’s your pain?
Identify your pain area to explore your treatment options and start your journey to recovery.
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Hip
Hip Pain Overview
Hip discomfort can come from misalignment, tight muscles, or referred pain from the spine. At, Chiropractic First, we examine your gait and movement patterns to develop a treatment plan with adjustments, rehab, and manual therapy.

Knee
Knee Pain Overview
Knee pain may result from strain, imbalance, or misalignment elsewhere in the leg. At, Chiropractic First, we take a full-body approach to restore balance and improve joint health with adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and rehab.

Ankle
Ankle Pain Overview
Ankle discomfort may result from instability, past injuries, or foot mechanics. At, Chiropractic First, we assess alignment and gait to provide targeted care including adjustments, rehab, and balance training.

Elbow
Elbow Pain Overview
Elbow discomfort can stem from various causes, including overuse injuries. Our team at Chiropractic First, offers comprehensive assessments and personalized treatments to address your pain.

Mid-Back
Mid-Back Pain Overview

Mid-back pain can hinder your daily life. Our team at Chiropractic First conducts thorough evaluations to determine the cause and offers tailored treatments to alleviate discomfort.

Head & Neck
Head and Neck Pain Overview
Head and neck pain can result from factors like poor posture or prolonged screen use. At Chiropractic First, we evaluate your spinal alignment and muscle function to identify the cause and develop a tailored treatment plan.

Shoulder
Shoulder or Clavicle Pain Overview
Pain in the shoulder or clavicle area can limit mobility and daily function. Our team at Chiropractic First conducts comprehensive evaluations to identify the cause and offers personalized treatment plans to address your needs.

Lower Back
Lower Back Pain Overview

Lower back pain is one of the most common and frustrating conditions. Standard imaging (like X-rays or MRIs) doesn’t always reveal the true cause. In many cases, the issue may stem from foot posture, mid-back stiffness, or movement imbalances.
At Chiropractic First, we evaluate your whole body—examining posture, muscle function, and movement—to pinpoint the source of your pain. Our care includes chiropractic adjustments, corrective exercises, massage therapy, and education to support long-term relief.

Upper Back
Upper Back Pain Overview

Upper back pain can stem from various causes, including posture issues and muscle strain. Our team at Chiropractic First  offers comprehensive assessments and tailored treatments to address your discomfort.

Wrist & Hand
Wrist and Hand Pain Overview
Pain in the wrist or hand may stem from overuse, nerve tension, or joint restrictions. Our team at, Chiropractic First, assesses your full arm and posture to identify the source, then creates a custom plan for relief using soft tissue therapy, adjustments, and ergonomic support.

South Burlington, VT's Top Source for Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic First serves as a trusted destination for people in South Burlington and nearby communities who are seeking real solutions for chronic pain and spinal issues. Many of our patients come to us after months or years of discomfort with little clarity about why the pain began. Our focus is on discovering the true cause of each patient’s condition, whether it involves the spine, discs, or surrounding nerves, and creating a treatment plan that promotes steady and dependable improvement.
Patients from Burlington, Williston, Winooski, Essex, Shelburne, and other parts of Chittenden County choose our clinic because we combine experience, individualized care, and clear guidance throughout every step of treatment. Dr Michael Townsend uses advanced chiropractic methods and detailed evaluations to help patients restore mobility, reduce pain, and regain confidence in their daily lives. Chiropractic First remains a leading source for chiropractic care in the region because we prioritize long term results, patient understanding, and a commitment to meaningful healing.
Why Choose Us
Why Patients Choose Chiropractic First
Our clinic combines expertise, compassion, and proven techniques to ensure each patient receives care that is truly tailored to them.

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Personalized Treatment Plans
Your care is designed around your specific spinal findings, movement patterns, and health concerns. This approach supports faster improvement and long term relief.

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25 Years of Clinical Expertise
With more than two decades of clinical practice, Dr Michael Townsend offers skilled, informed chiropractic care that helps patients achieve lasting results.

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Advanced Techniques & Modern Technology
We use methods including digital X ray imaging, spinal decompression, targeted adjustments, and soft tissue therapies that support healing and improve function.

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Clear Explanations and Patient Education
Patients receive straightforward explanations about the source of their pain and the steps needed for correction, creating confidence and clarity throughout care.

FAQs

What conditions do you treat at Chiropractic First?
We treat a wide range of conditions including chronic low back pain, neck pain, disc injuries, sciatica, radiating pain, neuropathy, shoulder issues, and problems related to muscle or joint dysfunction. Our focus is on identifying the true source of your symptoms so your treatment can be both effective and long lasting.
How does Dr Townsend determine the cause of my pain?
Your first visit includes a detailed consultation, spinal assessment, orthopedic testing, and a functional movement review. This allows Dr Townsend to pinpoint which structures are involved and whether the issue is related to the spine, discs, nerves, or surrounding soft tissue.
Do you accept insurance for chiropractic care?
Yes, we accept both insurance and cash patients. Most major plans are accepted including BCBS, MVP, Cigna, Medicare, and Medicaid. Our team will verify your benefits so you know exactly what is covered.
What to Expect When Visiting Our Chiropractor in South Burlington VT
Your initial visit focuses on understanding your health history, evaluating your symptoms, and performing targeted exams to determine the cause of your pain. You will also receive a clear explanation of your condition and a recommended treatment plan that outlines what to expect moving forward.
Is spinal decompression safe for disc injuries?
Yes, spinal decompression is a safe and effective non surgical therapy for many disc related problems. It gently reduces pressure on spinal discs and nerves, which can improve mobility, reduce inflammation, and support the body’s natural healing process. Most patients are able to finally relax and fall asleep during treatments.
How long does it take to see improvement?
Many patients notice early improvement within the first few visits, while others with chronic or long standing conditions may progress more gradually. Your plan will be tailored to your condition and goals, and Dr Townsend will monitor your progress closely to ensure steady results.
Patient Testimonials
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Take the First Step Toward Long Term Relief
Schedule Your Appointment at Chiropractic First
Chronic pain does not resolve on its own. If you are ready for clear answers and a personalized treatment plan, schedule a visit with Dr Michael Townsend. Our clinic provides advanced chiropractic care for spinal and nerve related conditions and we are here to help you begin your path to lasting recovery.

Book Appointment

(802) 657-3000
Contact
us
Please do not submit any Protected Health Information (PHI).
Office hours 
& location
Monday
8:00 am - 11:30 pm | 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Tuesday
8:00 am - 11:30 pm | 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Wednesday
8:00 am - 11:30 pm | 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Thursday
8:00 am - 11:30 pm | 1:30 pm - 4:00 pm
Friday
8:00 am - 12:00 pm
Saturday & Sunday
Closed
Chiropractic First
1480 Williston Road
South Burlington, VT 05403

(802) 657-3000
We help individuals overcome pain and regain their mobility, providing personalized care solutions to help you get back to doing what you love quickly and effectively.
OUR LOCATION
1480 Williston Road
South Burlington, VT 05403