Spearfish, SD

About Us

Nelson Chiropractic has been proudly serving the community since 1976, when it was founded by Dr. John Nelson. From the very beginning, Dr. Nelson’s vision has been to create a family-centered practice built on a diversified approach to chiropractic care. His philosophy emphasizes treating the whole person, incorporating a variety of techniques, and focusing on overall health and wellness.

Today, that legacy continues into the next generation. In 2014, Drs. Bjorn and Devon

Nelson joined the practice, carrying forward the same commitment to compassionate, comprehensive care. As a family-owned and family-driven office, they are deeply rooted

in serving individuals and families throughout the community.

At Nelson Chiropractic, we are dedicated to providing inclusive care to people of all

backgrounds, conditions, and ages. We are a subluxation-based chiropractic practice

focused on the importance of spinal alignment and nervous system function. We believe

that subluxations –misalignments of the spine—can interfere with the body’s natural ability to function and heal and may contribute to underlying health concerns. Our focus continues to be on a diversified, patient-centered approach that supports each individual’s unique needs.

Nelson Chiropractic has been proudly serving the community since 1976, when it was founded by Dr. John Nelson. From the very beginning, Dr. Nelson’s vision has been to create a family-centered practice built on a diversified approach to chiropractic care. His philosophy emphasizes treating the whole person, incorporating a variety of techniques, and focusing on overall health and wellness.

Today, that legacy continues into the next generation. In 2014, Drs. Bjorn and Devon Nelson joined the practice, carrying forward the same commitment to compassionate, comprehensive care. As a family-owned and family driven office, they are deeply rooted in serving individuals and families throughout the community.

At Nelson Chiropractic, we are dedicated to providing inclusive care to people of all backgrounds, conditions, and ages. We are a subluxation-based chiropractic practice focused on the importance of spinal alignment and nervous system function. We believe that subluxations –misalignments of the spine—can interfere with the body’s natural ability to function and heal and may contribute to underlying health concerns. Our focus continues to be on a diversified, patient-centered approach that supports each individual’s unique needs.

At Nelson Chiropractic, you’re not just a patient – you’re a part of our family.

Dr. Bjorn Nelson

Chiropractic – Lab work and Nutritional Counseling

Dr. Bjorn is a dedicated chiropractor, athlete, coach, and community leader based in Spearfish, South Dakota. Growing up in Belle Fourche, Dr. Bjorn was a four-sport high school athlete, excelling in football, basketball, track, and soccer. He earned All-State recognition as a placekicker, which led him to continue his football career at Rock Mountain College on a scholarship.

During his time at Rocky Mountain College (2006-2010), Dr. Bjorn was a two-time All-Conference athlete and the team’s leading scorer. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology with a minor in psychology.

Following his undergraduate studies, Dr. Bjorn pursued his Doctor of Chiropractic degree at Northwestern Health Sciences University in Bloomington, MN. While there, he was actively involved in multiple student organizations and organized his own student club, along with participating in biking and other campus activities. In 2014, he graduated with his doctorate.

After graduation, he became a member of the National Ski Patrol, serving at Hyland Hills Ski Area in Bloomington, MN; a skill that serves him to this day. He then moved to Spearfish to join the family practice with his to-be wife, Devon, and take over the leadership of the practice.

Dr. Bjorn has been a professional ski patroller at Terry Peak Ski Area in Lead, SD for over a decade, specializing in toboggan handling, on-mountain safety, and ski and snowboard instruction. He is also deeply involved in local athletics, serving as a chiropractor for Black Hills State University athletes since 2016. In addition, he has coached special teams and kickers at BHSU since 2022 and previously coached at Belle Fourche High School.

Beyond his professional work, Dr. Bjorn enjoys construction projects, ranching, and staying active outdoors. He and Devon are passionate about building a strong, healthy family and community, as they raise their children and continue to be involved in the Spearfish community.

Dr. Bjorn Nelson

Chiropractic – Lab work and Nutritional Counseling

Dr. Bjorn is a dedicated chiropractor, athlete, coach, and community leader based in Spearfish, South Dakota. Growing up in Belle Fourche, Dr. Bjorn was a four-sport high school athlete, excelling in football, basketball, track, and soccer. He earned All-State recognition as a placekicker, which led him to continue his football career at Rock Mountain College on a scholarship.

During his time at Rocky Mountain College (2006-2010), Dr. Bjorn was a two-time All-Conference athlete and the team’s leading scorer. He graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in biology with a minor in psychology.

Following his undergraduate studies, Dr. Bjorn pursued his Doctor of Chiropractic degree at Northwestern Health Sciences University in Bloomington, MN. While there, he was actively involved in multiple student organizations and organized his own student club, along with participating in biking and other campus activities. In 2014, he graduated with his doctorate.

After graduation, he became a member of the National Ski Patrol, serving at Hyland Hills Ski Area in Bloomington, MN; a skill that serves him to this day. He then moved to Spearfish to join the family practice with his to-be wife, Devon, and take over the leadership of the practice.

Dr. Bjorn has been a professional ski patroller at Terry Peak Ski Area in Lead, SD for over a decade, specializing in toboggan handling, on-mountain safety, and ski and snowboard instruction. He is also deeply involved in local athletics, serving as a chiropractor for Black Hills State University athletes since 2016. In addition, he has coached special teams and kickers at BHSU since 2022 and previously coached at Belle Fourche High School.

Beyond his professional work, Dr. Bjorn enjoys construction projects, ranching, and staying active outdoors. He and Devon are passionate about building a strong, healthy family and community, as they raise their children and continue to be involved in the Spearfish community.

Dr. Devon Nelson

Chiropractic – Acupuncture – DOT Physicals

Dr. Devon is passionate about helping individuals and families to live healthy, active

lives through natural chiropractic care.

Originally from Bismarck, ND, Dr. Devon graduated from Bismarck High School in 2006

before continuing her education at North Dakota State University in Fargo, ND. While at NDSU, competed as a Division I 100- and 400-meter hurdler. During her time on the track team, she contributed to six conference championship wins; an experience that

shaped her discipline, resilience, and commitment to wellness. Dr. Devon earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Exercise Science in 2010.

Following her undergraduate studies, Dr. Devon pursued her Doctor of Chiropractic degree at Northwestern Health Sciences University in Bloomington, MN. During her time at Northwestern, she remained highly involved in student council and athletics. She graduated with her doctorate in April 2014, shortly followed by her certification in chiropractic acupuncture in August 2014.

After graduation, Dr. Devon moved to Spearfish, SD with her to-be husband, Bjorn, where they joined his family’s chiropractic practice, continuing a meaningful legacy of care within the community. Inspired by her father-in-law, Dr. John, she has developed a dear passion for serving multiple generations of families and becoming a trusted resource for health, wellness, and injury care.

In 2017, Dr. Devon expanded her commitment to health and community by founding the Black Hills Hot Room, a boutique fitness studio specializing in infrared-heated yoga and strength classes, with her business partner. She continues to teach multiple classes each week, staying actively involved and fostering a supportive, health-focused community.

Outside of her professional life, Dr. Devon enjoys country living with her family on the Nelson homestead. She and Bjorn are proud parents to three beautiful children. As a family, they love biking, skiing, and traveling together.

Dr. Devon believes that chiropractic is one of the most powerful professions in the world, allowing her to help people heal and thrive by the use of her hands. She is especially passionate about supporting families, helping new moms achieve successful, drug-free births, and encouraging a chiropractic lifestyle from the beginning of life.

Grateful for the opportunity to continue her family’s legacy of care, Dr. Devon looks forward to serving both current and future patients; helping them live their healthiest, happiest lives.

Dr. John Nelson

Chiropractic

Dr. John is a dedicated professional known for his commitment to education, research, and helping others grow through knowledge. With 50 years of experience in his field, Dr. John has built a reputation for thoughtful leadership, academic curiosity, passion for sharing ideas that improve communities, and telling a good joke.

Throughout his career, Dr. John has worked with students, colleagues, and organizations to promote learning and innovation. He believes that education and research are powerful tools for progress. Whether teaching, researching, or speaking with others, he strives to inspire critical thinking and encourage lifelong learning.

Dr. John grew up on a farm in eastern South Dakota. His dad was a cattle feeder and row crop farmer; his mom, a Register Nurse. At age five, he began his journey with chiropractic care when his mom realized that chiropractic adjustment would relieve his therapeutic symptoms by allowing him to breathe easier.

Dr. John graduated from the University of South Dakota with his undergraduate degree and from Northwestern College of Chiropractic in Bloomington, MN with his doctorate. Upon graduation from Northwestern in 1976, he chose Spearfish to start his practice. Over his 50 years of practice, he has had three office locations, each location providing more space as his practice grew.

While running his practice, he has been heavily involved in the South Dakota Chiropractic Association, the State Board of Chiropractic Examiners, and the Spearfish Area Chamber of Commerce. He is also well known for his chiropractic care to local rodeos for upwards of 30 years. He has been given numerous awards over his career for his outstanding leadership in the South Dakota chiropractic community and the Northern Hills community.

Outside of his professional work, Dr. John enjoys reading, ranch work, and engaging with his community.

What are Dr. John’s secrets to success?

1. Maintain commitment and consistency.

2. Once you know where you’re going, it becomes easier to get there. The road to good health is a long journey, and it starts very early in life.

3. Teach by example and help others along the way.

Dr. John Nelson

Chiropractic

Dr. John is a dedicated professional known for his commitment to education, research, and helping others grow through knowledge. With 50 years of experience in his field, Dr. John has built a reputation for thoughtful leadership, academic curiosity, passion for sharing ideas that improve communities, and telling a good joke.

Throughout his career, Dr. John has worked with students, colleagues, and organizations to promote learning and innovation. He believes that education and research are powerful tools for progress. Whether teaching, researching, or speaking with others, he strives to inspire critical thinking and encourage lifelong learning.

Dr. John grew up on a farm in eastern South Dakota. His dad was a cattle feeder and row crop farmer; his mom, a Register Nurse. At age five, he began his journey with chiropractic care when his mom realized that chiropractic adjustment would relieve his therapeutic symptoms by allowing him to breathe easier.

Dr. John graduated from the University of South Dakota with his undergraduate degree and from Northwestern College of Chiropractic in Bloomington, MN with his doctorate. Upon graduation from Northwestern in 1976, he chose Spearfish to start his practice. Over his 50 years of practice, he has had three office locations, each location providing more space as his practice grew.

While running his practice, he has been heavily involved in the South Dakota Chiropractic Association, the State Board of Chiropractic Examiners, and the Spearfish Area Chamber of Commerce. He is also well known for his chiropractic care to local rodeos for upwards of 30 years. He has been given numerous awards over his career for his outstanding leadership in the South Dakota chiropractic community and the Northern Hills community.

Outside of his professional work, Dr. John enjoys reading, ranch work, and engaging with his community.

What are Dr. John’s secrets to success?

1. Maintain commitment and consistency.

2. Once you know where you’re going, it becomes easier to get there. The road to good health is a long journey, and it starts very early in life.

3. Teach by example and help others along the way.

Meet the Team of Professionals

Keren Ferrell

What do you enjoy most about helping

patients and Nelson Chiropractic:
I enjoy helping people feel better, especially when you see them improve with their visits. I also like meeting new people and getting to know them and hear their life stories.

Favorite hobby outside of work:

Gardening, being outside, hiking and spending time with my kids.

Favorite thing about living in the Black Hills:

The beautiful landscape and the variety of things to do outside.

Chiropractic Assistant

Melissa Gellermann

What do you enjoy most about helping

patients and Nelson Chiropractic:
I enjoy being able to help people feel better.

I also enjoy being able to meet new people through this position. This job is rewarding in so many aspects, and it is the reason I wanted to work

in the medical field.

Favorite hobby outside of work:

Watching softball and hiking.

Favorite thing about living in the Black Hills:

The beautiful scenery and the ability to exlore new places.

Chiropractic Assistant

Karen Ahl

What do you enjoy most about helping

patients and Nelson Chiropractic:
I love connecting with people and seeing their progress. I enjoy seeing patients decrease their discomfort while improving their ability to move and go about their lives.

Favorite hobby outside of work:

Staying alive with my dog and photography.

Favorite thing about living in the Black Hills:

Hiking, snowshoeing and photographing the beautiful nature of the Black Hills.

Chiropractic Assistant

Emma McKirdy-Wilsey

What do you enjoy most about helping

patients and Nelson Chiropractic:
I enjoy learning each patient's name and face to create an atmosphere of comfort and familiarity. I want every patient to know they are seen and heard in our office, and that starts with the moment they walk in the front door.

Favorite hobby outside of work:

Reading, teaching Zumba, crafting.

Favorite thing about living in the Black Hills:

Wherever I am in Spearfish, I can look up and see

the mountains and trees surrounding us.

It always reminds me to stop and

appreciate the beauty of nature.

Front Desk Administrator

Leah Douglas

What do you enjoy most about helping

patients and Nelson Chiropractic:
I have always encouraged people to seek out chiropractic care to help them feel better and live a healthier life. Through my billing position, I try to help patients understand any bills and issues they may have.

Favorite hobby outside of work:

Golfing in the summer, reading in the winter.

Favorite thing about living in the Black Hills:

I enjoy the peace and quiet of living in the Black Hills.

Billing

Deborah Carr

What do you enjoy most about helping

patients and Nelson Chiropractic:
I take great pride in knowing and helping patients! They become people I know and care about! I love establishing a professional relationship with patients. It's my life!
I love knowing patients' school mascots, especially from SD. An extra perk is working with my son, my daughter-in-law, and Dr. John!

Favorite hobby outside of work:

Music, theater, movies, grandkids, and travel.

Favorite thing about living in the Black Hills:

The climate and lifestyle, and my family is here!

Office Manager and

Chiropractic Assistant

Kellie Pummel

What do you enjoy most about helping

patients and Nelson Chiropractic:
I love to see patients’ improvement through acupuncture, chiropractic, and better life choices. I love to see their overall attitudes better when they walk out our door versus when they walk in.

Favorite hobby outside of work:

My grands...love the pool, baseball, soccer, basketball and flag football games.
Anything with family!

Favorite thing about living in the Black Hills:

We love the people and all of the outdoor activities. We have a cabin in the Southern Hills by Mystic that is truly a "slice of heaven" along with our home in Spearfish. It's a blessing to live where we do!