Our Doctors
At Spine and Sports Institute, we pride ourselves on the high level of specialized training and continuing education of each physician. We strive to incorporate the latest sports medicine research into treatment in order to best serve the needs of our patients.
Dr. Sandell, DC, DACBSP, ATC, CSCS, is owner and director of Spine & Sports Institute. He is a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic who graduated from Northwestern Health Sciences University. He attended undergraduate school at University of Minnesota Duluth and holds Bachelor of Science degrees in Exercise Physiology and Human Biology. Dr. Sandell earned his diplomate in Sports Medicine from the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians (ACBSP). He currently serves as a chair member on the ACBSP. In addition, Dr. Sandell is a Certified Athletic Trainer (ATC) and a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS). He is a credentialed Active Release Technique® (ART) practitioner and is trained in several other soft tissue mobilization techniques. Dr. Sandell was selected to work at the United States Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, CO. This is a prestigious opportunity to treat many of the Olympic athletes and is only granted to a select number of chiropractors in the United States. With his vast experience and knowledge in sports medicine, Dr. Sandell understands the need for a rapid return to competition and has had the opportunity to treat many professional athletes and patients from around the world.
Dr. Westbrock, DC, CCSP, EMT, CSCS is a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic who graduated with honors from Northwestern Health Sciences University. She attended University of Minnesota Duluth as a student-athlete and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with an emphasis in Chemistry. Dr. Westbrock is a Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician (CCSP) recognized by the American Chiropractic Board of Sports Physicians (ACBSP), is a nationally registered Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), is an Active Release Technique® (ART) practitioner, and is pursuing her sports medicine diplomate from the ACBSP. Currently, she is the Medical Director for the Wayzata Girl’s Rugby Club, MN U19 and U20 Select Side Rugby teams, and Wing’s Soccer Association. Additionally, Dr. Westbrock works with the Minnesota Lightning and Dakota County Technical College Men’s and Women’s soccer teams. Due to Dr. Westbrock’s extensive education in sports injuries and physical rehabilitation, she allows for a safer and faster return to competition for athletes of all levels.
Dr. Thielke, DC, is a licensed Doctor of Chiropractic who graduated from Northwestern Health Sciences University in 2005. He attended undergraduate school at Dakota State University in Madison, SD and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology for Info Systems. Dr. Thielke focuses on combining chiropractic manipulation with complimentary therapies and soft tissue mobilization to heal new injuries and chronic conditions. Although always happy to help people in pain, his motivation lies in helping people understand how the body functions and the active role a person can take in order to achieve a healthier lifestyle.
Dr. Holmes, DC, EMDC, CCSP, CSCS, EMT, licensed Doctor of Chiropractic who graduated with honors from Northwestern Health Sciences University in 2007. He attended the University of Minnesota Twin-Cities and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology. Dr. Holmes is a nationally registered Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), and is certified in Active Release Technique® (ART). Additionally, Dr. Holmes provides medical sideline support for the Mid-America Semi-Professional Football League. Lastly, Dr. Holmes is currently pursuing his sports medicine diplomate from the ACBSP.
Read about our doctors' credentials.