Emerson Chiropractic: Trusted Chiropractor on the Southside of Indianapolis

Our Story: Emerson Chiropractic | Caring for Indianapolis Families 30+ Years

Emerson Chiropractic’s Story

Emerson Chiropractic has been proudly serving the southside of Indianapolis and surrounding communities since 1995. Originally founded as Cerefin Family Chiropractic by Dr. Michael Cerefin, the practice was built on a foundation of family-centered chiropractic care, clinical excellence, and community trust. Over more than two decades, the office established itself as a reliable provider of chiropractic care for families throughout Indianapolis, Greenwood, Southport, Franklin, and nearby areas.

In 2018, Dr. Cerefin selected Dr. Christian J. Carter to join the practice with the vision of transitioning leadership and continuing high-quality chiropractic care on Indianapolis’ south side. Over the next year and a half, Dr. Christian trained closely under Dr. Cerefin’s mentorship, gaining experience in patient care, treatment planning, and operating a successful chiropractic health office.In November 2019, Dr. Christian assumed ownership, guiding the practice into its next chapter as Emerson Chiropractic. While honoring the values the practice was founded on, Dr. Christian has expanded services and modernized care with a movement-focused, evidence-based approach to chiropractic treatment. Today, Emerson Chiropractic helps patients achieve lasting relief, improved mobility, and long-term wellness.As a leading chiropractor on the southside of Indianapolis, Emerson Chiropractic provides personalized care for individuals and families of all ages. Each care plan is tailored to the patient’s specific needs, goals, and lifestyle.

Whether you are seeking relief from back or neck pain, recovering from an injury, managing chronic discomfort, or focusing on preventative wellness care, treatment is always centered on restoring function and improving quality of life.Dr. Christian earned his Doctorate of Chiropractic Medicine and a Master’s Degree in Nutrition and Human Performance from Logan University in St. Louis. He also holds a certification in Acupuncture. His clinical interests include functional movement, human performance, injury recovery, and mobility-based care. Dr. Christian's approach emphasizes correcting the root cause of dysfunction, restoring natural movement patterns, and improving strength and flexibility—helping patients move without pain and stay active at every stage of life.

​​​​​​​Emerson Chiropractic is conveniently located on the southside of Indianapolis, just off Emerson Avenue, north of St. Francis Hospital, between Stop 11 Road and Southport Road. We proudly serve patients from Indianapolis, Greenwood, Southport, Franklin, and surrounding Central Indiana communities.

Personalized Care with You in Mind

With Emerson Chiropractic, you’re more than just a patient – you’re the reason we do what we do. Our care is built around you, your goals, and your lifestyle. From your very first visit, we take the time to get to know you and understand your concerns, and create a personalized plan that works for your body and your schedule.


Our patient-centered approach and wide range of therapies make it easy to support every stage of life, whether it’s helping to ensure your kids grow strong, keeping up with sports and recovery, keeping parents active, or improving mobility and comfort for older adults. No matter your age or lifestyle, we’re here to help your family feel better, move better, heal better, and live healthier together.

Dr. Christian J. Carter

Dr. Christian J. Carter, owner of Emerson Chiropractic, is a St. Louis native who earned his Doctorate of Chiropractic Medicine and Master’s in Nutrition and Human Performance from Logan University. Now based in Indianapolis, he combines his expertise, certifications, and passion for wellness to help patients move better, recover faster, and live healthier lives.

Trusted within the Community

Emerson Chiropractic has been a trusted part of the Indianapolis community for over 30 years from its early days, to where we stand now, we have been helping patients of all ages find relief, improve their mobility, and achieve their wellness goals. Our commitment has earned the confidence of your friends, families, and neighbors who all rely on us for their chiropractic and wellness needs.

Our Vision

Our focus is simple, to put patients first and provide care that truly makes a difference. We are dedicated to helping individuals and families achieve better health through personalized chiropractic care, advanced therapies, and ongoing wellness education. Our vision is to create a healthier, more active community where people of all ages feel empowered to take charge of their well-being. By combining proven techniques, compassionate care, and a commitment to results, we strive to be more than a chiropractic office. We aim to be a trusted partner in your health journey.

Community Driven

We believe health and wellness extends beyond our office walls. It’s also about building a healthier and stronger community together. That’s why we’re proud to take part in local initiatives like blood drives, food drives, and other charity events that support families and neighbors in need. Our team is committed to giving back, whether it’s volunteering our time, sponsoring local activities, or partnering with other organizations to make a difference. When you choose Emerson Chiropractic, you’re not just getting exceptional care but joining a practice that’s invested in the well-being of our entire community.

​​​​​​​We’re proud to be a part of a vibrant Indianapolis community, which also means supporting the businesses, services, and sharing the talents of our own practice members. We believe in helping our community thrive together. We love being able to be a resource to help connect you with others and build relationships that can help strengthen our neighborhood. When you join Emerson Chiropractic, you’re joining a network of support that extends far beyond chiropractic care.


​​​​​​​Be sure to check out our Community Connections Board when you’re with us!