Relocating to Lakeland, Florida in 1976, Dr. Merritt began his practice with another local chiropractor. It was wonderful after all the years of education and training to be working in his profession, but he longed to have a practice of his own. Knowing the start-up cost for a new office to be very expensive, and requiring deep debt, he felt it would take many years of saving before he would be able to solo. However, he was surprised by a grateful patient who made it possible to realize his dream ahead of schedule. "I will never be able to repay him" he said.

More recently, Dr. Merritt was joined in practice by his son. Dr. Rodney W. Merritt, a 1992 Hillsborough Community College graduate, continued his education at Life College, graduating in 1995 with a bachelor of science degree in nutrition, and earning a Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Life University’s School of Chiropractic in March 1999. He has additionally earned a Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine degree from St. Luke School of Medicine in February, 2003, a Doctor of Medicine from the University of Science, Arts, and Technology in December, 2004, a Masters of Public Health from the University of Science, Arts, and Technology in June, 2005, a Doctor of Public Health from the University of Science, Arts, and Technology Summa Cum Laude, in November, 2005, and a Doctor of Oriental Medicine from the University of Science, Arts, and Technology in February, 2006.

Dr. Richard W. Merritt and Dr. Rodney W. Merritt form a strong team with "a shared vision" that provides services to "promote the health of individuals and families." The Chiropractic Health Center focuses on spinal care and more, including: Hands on evaluation of the spine and extremities; an individualized care plan that may include spinal check-ups nutritional advice, and exercise counseling; and personalized treatment with adjustments and therapy for specific spinal problems. An array of diagnostic equipment, like x-ray, thermography, surface electrode electromyography, computerized muscle testing, and computerized spinal inclinometry along with twelve adjustment rooms make treatment and documentation of care state of the art.

Dr. Richard W. Merritt and Dr. Rodney W. Merritt take the care of each patient very seriously and spend hundreds of hours each year in additional training. They are tireless in the pursuit of helping each individual obtain the best in chiropractic care.

A Partnership For Your Health
You and your chiropractor are partners in maintaining your health. We encourage you to ask questions about your health and follow your treatment program. Our shared goal? Relief of pain, improvement in your spine's structure and function, better health and a return to a full life.

Merritt Chiropractic Center is accepting new patients.
To schedule a visit, call the office today.