Founder and Chiropractor
Dr. Derek Larsen, DC
Dr. Derek Larsen is the founder of Happy Family Chiropractic and has been serving Juneau families since opening the clinic in 2020. He grew up in a family that valued natural, hands-on care, and chose chiropractic after experiencing first-hand how it transformed his own back pain and chronic vertigo.
Dr. Derek earned his Doctor of Chiropractic degree and trained extensively in full-body adjustments, prenatal and pediatric chiropractic, and sports-related care. His approach is gentle, patient-centered, and focused on long-term wellness rather than quick fixes.
Outside the clinic, Dr. Derek is an avid runner, free diver, and hunter who lives the same active Alaska lifestyle as the patients he treats. That perspective shapes how he writes and reviews every article on this site.
Specialties
Articles by Dr. Derek Larsen
Sports Chiropractor in Juneau for Weekend Warriors
November 1, 2026
Living in Juneau means playing hard on the weekends. Learn how sports chiropractic care helps local hikers, runners, hunters, and athletes stay strong and injury-free.
read more
Pediatric Chiropractor in Juneau: Care for Your Child
October 1, 2026
Wondering if chiropractic care is safe and beneficial for your child? Learn how gentle adjustments support healthy development from infancy through the school years.
read more
Prenatal Chiropractor in Juneau: What to Expect
September 1, 2026
Wondering how chiropractic care fits into your pregnancy? Learn what to expect during a prenatal chiropractic visit in Juneau and how gentle adjustments support your comfort.
read more
Car Accident Chiropractor in Juneau: What to Do
July 2, 2026
A collision on Juneau roads can leave you shaken and sore. Here is what to do right after a crash and how chiropractic care helps you get back on your feet.
read moreShoulder Pain in Juneau: Paddling, Fishing and Gear
June 11, 2026
Long summer days in Juneau mean paddling, reeling in fish, and hauling heavy gear. Learn why shoulder pain happens and how chiropractic care keeps you active.
read more
Sports massage for Juneau runners and hikers
May 20, 2026
If you run the Treadwell, hike Mount Roberts, or chase salmon up a stream, your body is doing real work. Sports massage is one of the most underused recovery tools available to active people in Juneau. Here is how it actually helps and when to book.
read more
What to expect at your first massage in Juneau
May 6, 2026
If you have never had a professional massage before, the unknown can keep you from booking. Here is exactly what happens at our Juneau clinic from the moment you walk in to the moment you leave, written by one of our licensed massage therapists.
read morePrenatal Chiropractic in Juneau: Comfort Every Trimester
April 2, 2026
Carrying a baby shifts your center of gravity and changes your joints. Learn how prenatal chiropractic care in Juneau supports comfort from early pregnancy through birth preparation.
read more
Chiropractor vs Massage Therapy: Which Do You Need?
March 12, 2026
Deciding between chiropractic care and massage therapy comes down to what your body is dealing with. Here is how each works and how to know which one fits your needs.
read more
Lower Back Pain in Juneau: When to See a Chiropractor
February 25, 2026
Winter in Southeast Alaska places unique demands on the spine. Here is how to know when your lower back pain needs professional attention and what care looks like.
read moreHow Often Should You See a Chiropractor?
January 15, 2026
From sudden back tweaks on icy steps to routine wellness checks, here is what determines your ideal chiropractic visit frequency.
read more
Work Injury Chiropractor in Juneau: Back Recovery Steps
November 13, 2025
A sudden tweak or chronic strain at work can derail your routine fast. Here are practical steps to protect your spine and navigate back injury recovery in Southeast Alaska.
read more
Understanding TMJ and Neck Pain: Causes and Treatments
September 12, 2025
If you've ever experienced jaw discomfort along with tightness or soreness in your neck, you may have wondered if TMJ can cause neck pain. The answer is yes, your jaw and neck are more connected than most people realize.
read more
Neck and Shoulder Pain Relief: Tips and Exercises
August 12, 2025
Neck and shoulder pain is a common problem in today's world, often caused by poor posture, stress, or spending too much time at a desk or on a phone.
read more
Treating Neck Pain: At-Home and Professional Remedies
July 12, 2025
Neck pain can range from a mild nuisance to a major disruption in your daily life. Understanding the right treatment options is key to feeling better.
read more
Serious Neck Pain Symptoms: When to See a Doctor
June 12, 2025
Neck pain is incredibly common, most of us will experience it at some point. While many cases are caused by poor posture or muscle strain, there are times when neck pain could be a sign of something more serious.
read more
How to Sleep with Neck Pain: Positions and Tips for Better Rest
May 7, 2025
Neck pain can make falling asleep and staying asleep difficult. Learning how to sleep with neck pain can help you get better rest and improve your overall well-being.
read more
Can Neck Pain Cause a Bloody Nose? Unusual Symptoms Explained
April 2, 2025
Can neck pain really cause a bloody nose? While the two symptoms may seem unrelated, there are situations where they can be connected. Let's explore the link.
read more
Can Neck Pain Cause Headaches
March 3, 2025
If you've been dealing with headaches that seem to start in your neck, you're not imagining it. Neck pain and headaches are closely connected.
read moreWhat to Do for Neck Pain: Immediate and Long-Term Solutions
February 6, 2025
Neck pain is an incredibly common issue that can disrupt daily life. Whether it's a dull ache, sharp discomfort, or stiffness that limits your movement, neck pain can make even simple tasks difficult. Understanding what to do for neck pain...
read more
How to Fix Neck Pain: From Causes to Solutions
January 3, 2025
Neck pain is a widespread issue that affects people of all ages. Understanding the causes and knowing the right solutions can help you find lasting relief.
read moreDiscover How to Relieve Severe Neck Pain on Left Side
December 23, 2024
Combat severe left-sided neck pain with proven exercises, natural remedies, and expert treatment tips for effective relief and comfort.
read moreHow to Get Rid of Neck Pain
November 23, 2024
In this guide, we'll explore the common causes of neck pain, home remedies for relief, lifestyle adjustments to prevent discomfort, and professional treatment options. With these strategies, you can better understand, manage, and even preve...
read morePediatric Chiropractic Care: What It Looks Like for Kids
November 14, 2024
From toddlers finding their footing to school-age athletes, here is what pediatric chiropractic care actually looks like for Juneau families.
read more
The Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Veterans
October 14, 2024
Veterans often face unique physical and emotional challenges after their service. Chiropractic care offers a natural, non-invasive solution for chronic pain and injury recovery.
read more
How to Access VA Chiropractic Care in Juneau
October 14, 2024
If you're a veteran in Juneau looking for chiropractic care through the VA, this guide will walk you through the process of getting the treatment you need.
read more
Top Methods to Relieve Neck Pain Quickly and Effectively
October 8, 2024
Neck pain is one of the most common complaints we see at Happy Family Chiropractic. Whether it's caused by poor posture, stress, or an injury, neck pain can significantly affect your quality of life.
read moreHow to Cure Neck Pain Fast at Home
October 2, 2024
Neck pain can sneak up on you after a long day at work or a restless night’s sleep. It’s that nagging discomfort that makes turning your head a chore. If you've ever wondered how to cure neck pain fast, you're not alone. Many people are searching for quick and effective solutions to ease their pain
read moreFirst Week After a Car Accident: A Juneau Guide
September 12, 2024
The days following a fender bender can be confusing, especially when stiffness sets in late. Here is what to do during your first week to protect your recovery.
read moreUnexpected Causes of Back Pain
August 21, 2024
Discover hidden links between common health issues and back pain. Happy Family Chiropractic explains causes and offers tips to ease and prevent pain.
read moreYour Guide to Back Pain Providers
July 29, 2024
Back pain is a common and often debilitating condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Symptoms can range from a dull, constant ache to sudden sharp pain that makes movement difficult. At Happy Family Chiropractic, we believe in a holistic, natural approach to managing back pain. Understanding the different specialists who can help and focusing
read moreConstipation & Upper Back Pain Guide: Causes & Relief
June 24, 2024
Explore how constipation can lead to upper back pain, symptoms, and effective relief options. Visit Happy Family Chiropractic for expert care today.
read more
How Chiropractic Helped Jess's Pregnancy and Baby Kaia
May 20, 2024
At Happy Family Chiropractic, we recently had the pleasure of taking care of the Jones Family: Jess, Makai, and their baby, Kaia. Their story is a testament to the transformative power of chiropractic care...
read moreHernias & Back Pain: Causes & Solutions | Your Expert Guide
May 20, 2024
Learn how hernias can cause back pain, symptoms to recognize, and effective treatments. Get expert care at Happy Family Chiropractic.
read morePrenatal Chiropractor in Juneau: Pregnancy Care
April 11, 2024
Carrying a baby in Southeast Alaska comes with unique physical demands. Learn how gentle prenatal chiropractic care helps support your spine and pelvis through pregnancy.
read more
Flat Feet & Back Pain Guide: What You Need to Know Today
April 10, 2024
Discover how flat feet may lead to back pain, symptoms to watch for, and effective treatments. Get expert advice at Happy Family Chiropractic.
read more
Our Expert Knee Pain & Back Pain Guide: Causes & Solutions
March 26, 2024
Discover how knee pain might contribute to back pain, symptoms to watch for, and effective treatments. Get expert care at Happy Family Chiropractic.
read moreNeck Pain That Will Not Settle: What to Do Next
February 15, 2024
When neck stiffness lingers through the dark winter months, waiting it out rarely works. Learn what drives chronic neck tension and how conservative chiropractic care can help you get moving again.
read more
Poor Posture and Back Pain
January 23, 2024
Discover tips from Happy Family Chiropractic on improving posture to alleviate back pain. Click for insights on achieving a pain-free lifestyle.
read more
Staying Mobile Through a Southeast Alaska Winter
December 7, 2023
Winter in Juneau brings icy hills, heavy wet snow, and fewer daylight hours. Here is how to keep your joints healthy, protect your spine, and stay moving all season long.
read more
Body Weight and Back Pain | Insights and Solutions
November 23, 2023
Explore the connection between body weight and back pain. Happy Family Chiropractic provides insights and solutions for a healthier, pain-free life.
read moreChiropractors for Herniated Disc
October 25, 2023
Explore how chiropractors at Happy Family Chiropractic offer specialized care for herniated discs. Click for expert services and find relief today!
read more
Unlock Lower Back Pain Relief: Expert Chiropractic Insights
September 8, 2023
Discover how chiropractors can banish lower back pain for good. Get back to pain-free living. Click now for a healthier you!
read moreOvarian Cysts & Back Pain: Understanding the Connection
August 16, 2023
Is your back pain related to ovarian cysts? Happy Family Chiropractic breaks down the potential correlation. Read on to find clarity on your symptoms.
read moreCan Dehydration Cause Back Pain? A Comprehensive Guide
July 18, 2023
The human body is approximately 60% water, this essential fluid plays a vital role in almost all bodily functions. Despite water's importance, many people are chronically dehydrated, a condition that can have surprising implications for our...
read moreEase Your Spine: Strategies to Avoid Back Pain at Your Desk Job
June 15, 2023
Sitting for prolonged periods, bad posture, and improper workstation ergonomics are common at workplaces and they often lead to back pain, a condition affecting millions of people worldwide.
read moreSciatica Explained: How a Juneau Chiropractor Can Help
May 18, 2023
Shooting leg pain can stop your spring plans in their tracks. Learn what causes sciatica, how chiropractic care can help, and how to protect your back in Southeast Alaska.
read moreHow to Select the Perfect Pillow for a Restful Night's Sleep
May 8, 2023
Your preferred sleeping position is crucial when selecting the ideal pillow. Back sleepers generally need a flatter pillow, sometimes a roll pillow is also a better option for back sleepers and is what Dr Derek uses. Side sleepers may requi...
read more
The Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Headaches
April 18, 2023
Headaches can be a significant source of discomfort and can negatively affect our daily lives. Many people may not realize that chiropractic care can provide relief for headache and migraine sufferers too. In this blog post, we will explore...
read more
4 Things You Didn't Know About Chiropractic Care
April 3, 2023
Chiropractic care is often associated with back pain, but there's more to this form of healthcare than just spinal adjustments. Here are four things you might not have known about chiropractic treatment.
read moreWhen a Headache Is Coming From Your Neck
March 9, 2023
Not all headaches start in your head. Many originate right in the upper neck, especially during the cold, wet months in Southeast Alaska. Here is how to tell the difference.
read more
Meditate, Return to the present.
February 10, 2023
This is a hard one for me to write about. I would venture to guess that most people who have met me or known me for a while know that it is hard for me to sit still. My mind is always on the move as is my body. It is essential however for me to take a step back and...
read more
5 Signs That You Need to See a Chiropractor
February 6, 2023
Are you feeling sore and stiff? Are your joints aching or do you have limited mobility? Here are five signs that could indicate it's time for an appointment with a chiropractor.
read moreHow to Make the Most Out of Your Chiropractic Visits
February 6, 2023
Chiropractic visits are essential for keeping your body healthy, but they can also be a bit intimidating. It's important to make sure you get the most out of your chiropractic appointments to maximize your results and keep improving. Here a...
read moreStretch! You Won't Believe the Benefits!
January 20, 2023
Have you stretched today? I think everyone knows that stretching is good for the body. But do we know why? I was reading some articles about stretching and I thought I would share a couple of things that I've been learning. I couldn't believe what I was learning, the body is amazing!
read moreWhy Chiropractic Care is a Must for Athletes
December 22, 2022
If you're an athlete or the parent of an athlete, you know that maintaining top performance is key to success. Chiropractic care is one important way to help athletes achieve their best.
read moreSimple Tips to Avoid Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
November 28, 2022
If you use a computer for work or spend a lot of time on your phone or tablet, then you may be at risk for developing carpal tunnel syndrome. This is a condition that affects the nerves in the hands and wrists and can cause pain, tingling,...
read moreDesk Posture and Neck Tension in Juneau
November 17, 2022
As dark afternoons and wet weather keep us indoors, desk posture takes a toll on the neck and shoulders. Learn practical tips and how chiropractic care helps.
read moreDon't Just Sit There: The Health Benefits of Good Posture
October 12, 2022
Do you slouch when you sit? Do you have a bad habit of resting your chin on your hand? If so, you're not alone. Many people have poor posture without even realizing it and many also realize it but dont do anything to change! What you may no...
read more
7 Tips to Stay Healthy During the Cold Alaskan Winters
September 20, 2022
The winter months in Alaska can be tough. The weather is cold and dark, and it can be hard to get out of bed in the morning. Here are 7 ways to stay healthy during the winter months in Alaska!
read more5 Ways to Relieve Tension Headaches Without Medication
September 9, 2022
Tension headaches are the most common type of headache, and they can be very debilitating. Most people reach for medication, but there are effective ways to relieve tension headaches without it.
read moreJuneau Trail Running and Hiking Injuries
August 11, 2022
Late summer is peak hiking season in Southeast Alaska. Here is a look at the most common trail running and hiking injuries we see in Juneau and how chiropractic care helps keep you moving.
read more
What to Look for When Choosing a Chiropractor
August 10, 2022
When you are looking for a chiropractor, it is important to find one that is right for you. There are many different chiropractors out there, and each one has their own style and approach. If you don't choose the right chiropractor, you may...
read moreThe Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Pregnant Women
July 26, 2022
Pregnant women often seek chiropractic care for prenatal health concerns. Chiropractors are specially trained to treat pregnant women, and they offer a number of benefits that can help make the pregnancy and delivery process smoother. In th...
read more
Vitamin D and Omega 3s My Chiropractors' Favorite Supplements
June 25, 2022
Vitamin D and Omega threes! Two of my most recommended supplements. I love recommending them because the best way to get them is through sunshine and eating our beautiful Alaskan salmon.
read more
A Chiropractor's First Hand Experience with Vertigo
June 15, 2022
Alright, it's story time again. This time I want to talk about one of the reasons I became incredibly excited about becoming a chiropractor aside from my initial experience due to back pain.
read more
Inflammation, Your Body's Initial Response to a Trauma
June 3, 2022
When I look across the internet for information about health and wellbeing I always seem to find information about how it is beneficial to decrease inflammation. Much of this information points to inflammation as the cause of many health issues.
read more
How Chiropractic Restored Jasz's Range of Motion
May 17, 2022
At Happy Family Chiropractic, we take pride in our ability to transform lives through effective chiropractic care. Today, we're excited to share the success story of our friend Jasz.
read more
Concussions, A Chiropractor's Perspective
May 14, 2022
Over the last couple of months, I have had a few people come in and ask about concussions and traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). I am finally getting around to writing about concussions.
read more
Chiropractic Success Stories, The reason I come to work.
April 12, 2022
I love stories, I love telling them and listening to them. There is a lot to be learned from stories. Today I want to tell a few stories, I want to tell a few chiropractic success stories that I have had a first-hand opportunity of witnessing. Without these stories...
read moreWhy does my Chiropractor prescribe exercises?
March 28, 2022
I try to give my patients exercises and or stretches to do after every visit, or at least follow up with the exercises that I have given them in the past. You might ask, why does my chiropractor prescribe exercises? Today I want to explain why I give these exercises and stretches.
read moreListen to your body, you will be surprised at the wisdom it can share.
March 11, 2022
I recently had a conversation with a colleague and good friend about listening to your body. I mentioned that diet is simple, just listen to what your body says about the foods you eat...
read moreIs it Nap Time Yet? The Importance of Sleep from a Chiropractor's Point of View.
March 5, 2022
Is it nap time yet? Yes! absolutely, especially if you feel like you need some sleep. I was struggling to write this and found that I couldn't concentrate so I decided to take a 20-minute power nap. Now I am ready to talk about the importance of sleep.
read more7 Common Myths About Chiropractic Care
February 27, 2022
If you are suffering from any condition, alternative health care methods can be great options to consider. Whether you are looking for your first adjustment or you have been seeing a chiropractor for a long time you may have heard some of the myths surrounding chiropractic care.
read more
What does a chiropractor do to stay healthy?
February 22, 2022
2 weeks ago in my article, I talked a lot about trauma, intending to define it so that it can be identified in the day-to-day. One of the things I mentioned was my opinion on how to be healthy...
read moreHow Often Should I See a chiropractor? Well, Lets Talk About Maintenance Care.
February 12, 2022
"How often should I see a chiropractor?" I hear this all the time, and the answer is that it depends. It depends on how healthy you are in general. It depends on how severe any of your injuries are. It depends on what you are looking for in your health goals.
read more
What is Trauma, and How Does it Relate to the Chiropractic Adjustment?
February 7, 2022
At the office, I often talk about trauma because the inability to adapt to trauma is what brings people to the office for a chiropractic adjustment. The goal of this post is to help define trauma.
read more
What Toxins are Released After a Chiropractic Adjustment? Debunking the Myth
February 1, 2022
As we delve into the subject of the toxins released this week, we frequently encounter one recurring question: "What toxins are released after a chiropractic adjustment?" The short answer: none.
read more6 Ways A Chiropractor helps Alleviate Their Own Back Pain.
January 22, 2022
Spine-health is rarely included in our daily regimen, and sadly, the spine is likely the most critical organ that keeps our body functioning correctly.
read moreSlipped on the Ice and Injured? How Soon Should You See a Chiropractor?
January 15, 2022
With all the ice we currently have in Juneau and all the people telling me how often they have been falling, and getting injured, I thought it might be appropriate to talk about how soon after an injury you should consider seeing a chiropractor.
read more
How Can Chiropractic Help You Achieve Your 2022 Goals?
January 11, 2022
Welcome to 2022 fam! This week with my personal 2022 goals at the forefront of my mind I wanted to talk about goals, specifically the ones in which chiropractic can potentially help.
read moreChiropractic during pregnancy? An Excellent Addition to your Birth Team
December 17, 2021
At Happy Family Chiropractic in Juneau we love our mommas! We wouldn't be here without them! We also know that mommas go through a lot to get us here and it starts well before birth.
read more4 Key Ways Chiropractic Care Benefits the Whole Family
December 14, 2021
Chiropractic care often gives us the mental image of bone troubles, making us think of them as those that treat issues arising out of old age. And while chiropractic care indeed has a lot to do with bones and bone health, it does not have a...
read moreThings You Should Know About Chiropractic Treatment
December 10, 2021
Entering into new territory can be an uneasing experience, especially when the territory is doctor patient setting. Contrary to popular opionion, chiropractic is not really a new practice, it started in 1895, and there are many historical d...
read more
Easing Your Tension Headaches: 7 Tips From a Chiropractor
December 8, 2021
Stressful lifestyle choices are a major cause of tension headaches and migraines in millions of people worldwide. Here are tips on how you can deal with your tension headaches, straight from a chiropractor's diary!
read more
8 Benefits of Going to a Chiropractor
December 5, 2021
Chiropractors are known for their alternative back and neck pain management techniques. However, apart from helping heal your injuries, they can also help you avoid getting injured in the future.
read morePrepping for Your Chiropractic Session: 7 Key Insights
December 3, 2021
Unlock the secrets of a successful chiropractic visit. Dive into Happy Family Chiropractic's top 7 things everyone should know before their appointment.
read moreHow to Choose a Chiropractor
December 2, 2021
Choosing the right chiropractor is crucial for your well-being. Explore invaluable tips from Happy Family Chiropractic to make an informed decision.
read moreQualities to Look for in a Chiropractor
December 1, 2021
Nowadays, many people are avoiding western medical treatments and looking for alternative healthcare methods. Here are the qualities of an ideal chiropractor and when you should seek one.
read more
A Well Adjusted Hunter; Mountain Goat Hunt and Chiropractic
November 3, 2021
After writing my last article and feeling rather sad about it, I figured a fun article should be next. About 3 months ago I got invited along on a mountain goat hunt on Kodiak island.
read moreJuneau Chiropractor for Lower Back Pain
October 14, 2021
Fall in Southeast Alaska puts real physical demands on your body. Learn how a Juneau chiropractor evaluates and treats lower back pain to keep you moving comfortably.
read more
Is wellness ever really achievable without a mental health check?
September 28, 2021
Lately I have been thinking often about mental health. I believe it is finally time to get some of my thoughts onto paper concerning this topic.
read moreA Mighty Challenge; the Juneau Alaska Marathon
August 4, 2021
I started writing this post back in May when I signed up to run the Juneau Alaska Marathon. This post is therefore written almost as journal entries from my training.
read moreFuel your life, Eat Well, Nourish Often, a look at diet with Dr. Derek DC.
July 21, 2021
Hello family and friends! This week I have been thinking a lot about the things I've been eating and how they affect me. From Bratwursts made of spring black bear meat, to cake from a friend's birthday party, everything I eat affects how I feel.
read more
COVID 19, a Volatile Topic in An Unsure World. Let's Talk About It
June 10, 2021
Hello, friends and family of Happy Family Chiropractic! Today's topic is one that honestly I have been avoiding because of the volatility of the situation.
read more
Reward vs Risk, The Safety of Chiropractic.
May 23, 2021
This last week I struck up a conversation with a few people around Juneau. Amid the conversation the question "What do you do for work?" came up and I responded that I was a chiropractor.
read more
The Ever-present Lure of the North, and an Unfailing Desire to Help Bring Joy to this Earth
May 5, 2021
This week I wanted to tell part of my story, I seem to be asked two questions quite a bit as I meet people in Juneau.
read morePediatric Chiropractic, Dedicated to the Potential of a Prized Generation.
April 27, 2021
This whole week I have been thinking about how to approach the topic of Pediatric Chiropractic in a way that would be enticing and exciting to read.
read moreThe Most Common Chiropractic Myths Debunked | Advantages of Chiropractic Care
April 21, 2021
There are a few myths out there that I want to dispel to help you understand when an individual should seek chiropractic care.
read moreFeel better in your body, starting today.
Whether you're dealing with pain, recovering from physical stress, or just want to move and feel better, we'd love to meet you.