В Айткине стартует стажировка будущего врача-хиропрактика, планирующего купить клинику у retiring-доктора

In mid-July, Aitkin resident, Luke Ortloff, began a chiropractic internship at Aitkin Family Chiropractic. This marks the latest step in a relationship that began three years ago as Dr. Paul Kuiken transitions into retirement. Kuiken has served the community since opening his practice in 1986. Ortloff currently attends Palmer College of Chiropractic, where he is pursuing a Doctor of Chiropractic degree. His work at Aitkin Family Chiropractic under Kuiken’s license will fulfill his preceptor requirements before graduation. Ortloff first met Kuiken at a Gonstead technique seminar during his first year of chiropractic school in Wisconsin. A mutual connection introduced the two after learning Ortloff was from Minnesota. “He said that he was looking to retire in a couple of years and looking to sell his practice and building,” Ortloff said. “I’ve been coming up here for three years now, shadowing him and learning more about him and the community.” The internship, which began in mid-July, will continue until Ortloff graduates this Oct. 23. After graduation, he will need to receive his state license before practicing independently. Under Minnesota guidelines, Ortloff can currently perform chiropractic work under Kuiken’s license. His responsibilities include adjusting patients, taking X-rays and conducting new-patient exams. Ortloff said he and Kuiken share a similar philosophy when it comes to treating patients. “We practice a very conservative and specific form of chiropractic care called the Gonstead technique,” Ortloff said. “We use objective findings to guide adjustments and patients get better.” Ortloff and his wife, Lauren, recently married and are settling into the Aitkin community. His long-term plan is to purchase the practice and continue serving the area. “We really love it up here and have really enjoyed the community so far,” Ortloff said. “I want to serve the community as best as possible, continue adjusting patients and helping people reach their health goals.” Ortloff said the couple looks forward to becoming part of the community. “My wife is a nurse and we’re super excited to serve the community and start to integrate our lives into small-town Aitkin.” Aitkin Family Chiropractic is located at 104 Fourth St. NW, Aitkin and can be reached by calling 218-927-6383.