Dothan, Alabama · Caring for the Wiregrass since 1976

Something hurts.
Let's find out why.

Your first visit is free. A 30 to 45 minute consultation and spinal exam with one of our doctors, so you leave knowing what's actually causing the pain and what can be done about it.

A $279 value · No cost · No obligation to start care

Two doctors, one family practice

Most insurance accepted

Auto & on-the-job injuries

CareCredit available


THE OBVIOUS QUESTION

Why would the first visit be free?

Because the hardest part of getting help is not knowing whether it will help. A lot of people in the Wiregrass put up with pain for years rather than spend money to find out. We'd rather take that risk off your shoulders.

You find out first


The exam tells us whether your problem is one that responds well to chiropractic care. If it isn't, we'll say so and point you toward who can help.

No pressure to sign up


You'll get our honest read on what's going on. What you do next is your call, plenty of people take the findings home and think about it.

No drugs, No surgery


Chiropractic is a conservative first step. Most people would rather try hands-on care before they consider anything more invasive.

WHAT ACTUALLY HAPPENS

Your first visit, start to finish.

About 45 minutes. Wear something comfortable. If you have recent X-rays, MRI results, or an accident report, bring them.

1. We Listen

When it started, what makes it worse, what you've already tried, and what you're no longer able to do because of it. This part matters more than people expect.

2. We Examine

A hands-on evaluation of the spine and the joints involved, posture, range of motion, orthopedic and neurological testing. Imaging only if the findings call for it.

3. We Explain

In plain English: what we found, whether we can help, roughly how long it should take, and what it will cost. No surprises later.

WHO YOU'LL SEE

Two doctors. Same office.
Same name on the door.

You won't be handed off to a rotating staff. At Merritt Chiropractic Center you are seen by a Merritt — and there has been one practicing since 1976.

Dr. Richard W. Merritt

D.C., MPH, DrPH, FACFN, DABCA

In practice since 1976 and licensed in Alabama since 1996. He wrote a book on the subject, Chiropractic… Why Not? and has taught acupuncture safety and technique to other doctors at state conferences.

  • Palmer College of Chiropractic, 1976, magna cum laude
  • Diplomate, American Board of Chiropractic Acupuncture
  • Fellow, American College of Functional Neurology
  • Certified in spinal trauma and impairment rating relevant if you've been in a wreck

Dr. Rodney W. Merritt

D.C.

Practices alongside Dr. Richard Merritt at the Tate Drive office. Together they describe a shared vision: to promote the health of individuals and families across the Wiregrass, with a care plan built around each patient's needs and comfort level.

  • Hands-on evaluation of the spine and extremities
  • Individualized care plans
  • Accepting new patients

FROM OUR PATIENTS

What people say after they've been in.

PAYING FOR CARE

Cost shouldn't be the reason
you stay in pain.

  • Most insurance plans accepted: Bring your card to the first visit, and we'll verify your benefits and tell you what's covered before care begins.
  • Auto accident and on-the-job injuries: These are handled differently from routine visits. Call us early; how a case is documented from day one matters.
  • Payment plans through CareCredit: Monthly payment options for care that isn't covered by your plan.
  • You'll know the number before you commit: We go over the recommended plan and what it costs at the end of the first visit.
  • Making Care Affordable is Our Goal

    Is Offered In Our Office

    Regarding the free examination offer: The complimentary consultation and spinal examination cover only the doctor's evaluation. Additional charges may be incurred for related services that may be required in individual cases.

    The information on this website is for general education and is not a substitute for a professional examination, diagnosis, or treatment. Individual results vary. If you are having a medical emergency, call 911.

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