Alumni News, Chiropractic, Chiropractic Careers

Alum Story: Lynn Winkel has a Seat at the Table

Lynn Winkel, DC, ‘10 is part of a research team focused primarily on investigating the effectiveness of integrative and complementary treatment options for people with neck and back pain. 

She is a post-doctoral associate/clinical researcher at the Integrative Health and Wellbeing Research Program at the Earl E. Bakken Center for Spirituality & Healing at the University of Minnesota and a fellow in the Integrative Health Research Fellowship Program. 


I was excited to join this team which has given chiropractors a spot at the proverbial table to be able to highlight the impact we can make on people experiencing pain,” Dr. Winkel shared.


Chiropractic has been shown to be a safe, cost-effective conservative approach to care. Chiropractors have the flexibility of offering different treatment options, being able to develop a plan that fits nicely with both the patient’s symptoms and goals.”    

She has been the treating chiropractic provider on randomized controlled trials studying chronic low back pain and chronic back related leg pain. Dr. Winkel was also involved in a community-based trial focused on back and neck pain experienced by People of Color and those with less financial resources.


Chronic pain is such a complex condition and often patients have difficulties receiving care. The opioid crisis has further created barriers.

Research has shown that chronic pain care is a multifaceted condition which involves not only the physical aspect of low back pain symptoms, but also the psychological and social/emotional aspects as well.”


This story first appeared as part of “Touching Chronic Pain” in CONNECT: NWHSU’s Alumni & Friends Publication