Welcome

At iBackCheck Sport Therapy, our mission is to deliver results-driven care through a collaborative approach that integrates physical therapy, chiropractic, and manual therapy. By working as a team, we tailor treatments to each patient’s needs, accelerate recovery, and provide long-term tools for a pain-free, active life.

Our Story

Our Story At iBackCheck Sport Therapy, our mission is simple: to provide the most effective, efficient, and personalized care for our patients by integrating physical therapy, chiropractic, and manual therapy, including massage techniques. We believe that by utilizing the strengths of these disciplines, we can accelerate recovery, alleviate pain, and equip our patients with the tools they need to stay injury-free.

The name "iBackCheck" reflects our commitment to teamwork—just as a backcheck in sports involves players working together to regain control and defend effectively, we take a collaborative approach to patient care. Our team of specialists works in unison, ensuring that every patient receives the right combination of treatments to optimize recovery and long-term wellness.

Our journey began with the understanding that no single approach fits all conditions. Some injuries respond best to chiropractic adjustments, others require targeted physical therapy, and many benefit from the restorative effects of manual and massage therapy. By combining these treatments strategically, we have created a system that maximizes positive outcomes, allowing patients to return to their active lives faster.

However, our philosophy is not about pushing all therapies on every patient. Instead, we tailor treatment plans to each individual’s needs. Many of our patients already have chiropractors and choose us specifically for physical therapy services. Others rely solely on our chiropractic care, manual therapy, or massage. Additionally, we receive daily referrals from other providers, including M.D.s, D.O.s, and other D.C.s, who trust our expertise in physical therapy, ensuring their patients receive comprehensive and effective rehabilitation.

At iBackCheck Sport Therapy, we put the patient first. Whether you need a single modality or a combination of therapies, our goal is to provide the best care possible, ensuring you recover quickly and stay pain-free for the long run.

Our Care

Specialized Treatments

Explore our specialized treatments designed to alleviate pain, enhance mobility, and promote holistic wellness. Each treatment is meticulously customized to cater to your individual health needs, providing a comprehensive approach to healing.

Physical Therapy

At iBackCheck, our physical therapists take a holistic, performance-driven approach to healing and movement. We don’t just treat symptoms—we identify and address the root causes of pain, dysfunction, and limited mobility.

Our comprehensive care combines manual therapy, corrective exercise, and cutting-edge techniques like dry needling, cupping, and instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization to help you recover faster and perform better.

Whether you're returning to sport, recovering from injury, or simply looking to move and feel better, we tailor every treatment to your unique goals.

We specialize in:

Hands-on techniques to restore joint and muscle function
Targeted rehab exercises to correct imbalances and prevent re-injury
Advanced therapies like dry needling and cupping for faster recovery and pain relief
Personalized plans that enhance performance, reduce pain, and promote long-term results

Move with purpose. Perform at your peak. Recover the right way—with iBackCheck.

Spinal Adjustments

Chiropractic care focuses on restoring proper joint function, optimizing nervous system communication, and promoting overall musculoskeletal health. Our approach includes Chiropractic Manipulative Therapy (adjustments) to improve mobility and alignment, cupping to enhance circulation and reduce muscle tension, soft tissue mobilization to address muscle and fascial restrictions, and therapeutic exercises to build strength and prevent future injuries.

We serve two types of patients:

Relief Care: Those who seek immediate help for pain, injury, or restricted movement.
Wellness Care: Those committed to ongoing chiropractic care as part of a proactive, long-term strategy for optimal health and performance.

We also want to be clear—not all of our chiropractic patients receive physical therapy services, and not all physical therapy patients receive chiropractic care. Your treatment plan is customized based on your specific needs, goals, and what will be most effective for your recovery and long-term results.

That said, patients with conditions like low back pain caused by underlying muscle imbalances often benefit significantly from a combined approach. When chiropractic adjustments are paired with targeted physical therapy to correct muscular dysfunction, we consistently see faster, more lasting outcomes compared to using either method alone.

Whether you’re here to get back on your feet or stay at the top of your game, we tailor care to meet your goals.

iBackCheck Services:
Services offered include cupping, dry needling, adjustments, postop surgical therapy, manual therapy, IASTM, blood flow restriction therapy (BFR), therapeutic and corrective exercises, TMJ therapy, concussion therapy, pelvic floor therapy, functional strength training, auto and work injuries, and of course, a fun atmosphere.

Massage/Manual Therapy

Muscle Relaxation Techniques

Therapeutic massage utilizes targeted techniques to reduce muscle tension, ease discomfort, and promote relaxation. It focuses on restoring the body's natural balance and addressing underlying causes of discomfort.

Manual therapy is a hands-on treatment approach using skilled techniques to enhance musculoskeletal function and reduce pain, making our physical therapy and chiropractic treatments highly effective in optimizing recovery and performance. Our providers all use manual therapy in their treatment approach. If you are feeling as though you just need a massage, please inquire as tightness very frequently leads to injury and we can assist in preventing injury.

Massage Therapy Please inquire by calling 763.400.7438.

Tune Ups

Preventive Health

Many people think that they only need to see a chiropractor or physical therapist when they’re in pain or dealing with an injury. But at iBackCheck, we believe that preventative care and regular tune-ups are just as important as injury management – if not more!

Just like you get regular check-ups for your teeth or maintain your car before it breaks down, your body needs the same kind of attention. Staying proactive can help you:

Prevent injuries right before they happen

Improve posture and mobility

Reduce stiffness and discomfort

Enhance athletic performance

Boost overall wellness and energy levels.

Ready to take care of your body before pain slows you down? Book a preventative appointment today!

Athlete of life:
someone who views life as a continuous journey of striving for excellence, prioritizing health, fitness and personal growth, and approaching challenges with a mindset of resilience and determination much like an athlete in sports.

Meet Our Team

Our Experts

Our team at iBackCheck is composed of skilled professionals who are dedicated to providing exceptional care and promoting your overall wellness through our specialized treatments.

Lisa Zeman, PT

Lisa has been a physical therapist for over 20 years. She has a Masters in Physical Therapy from University of Mary, Bismarck North Dakota and a Bachelor of Science in Child Psychology from the University of Minnesota. Lisa has a passion for looking deep at movement patterns. She uses a creative approach of manual techniques, strengthening, and movement retraining. Examples include video analysis of running, biking, swimming, jump landing, and assessing work/daily movements. She has collaborated in development of Bike and Run Programs throughout her career. She enjoys the variety of seeing injuries literally from head to toe. Her area of expertise includes dry needling, manual therapy, lower extremity overuse injuries, post op hip, knee, ankle, foot, running analysis, return to sport, return to work, pediatric sports Injuries, bike fit certified, bone health – stress fractures and osteoporosis, certified in lymphedema, orthotics.

Why did you become a Physical Therapist?

I was first exposed to physical therapy in high school when I had a knee injury. I loved the combination of science and psychology that helped get me back to running. I had a strong interest in becoming an architect or journalist as well. Physical Therapy is a great combination. I can unravel how people are "built" and hear their personal stories.

Outside of working what do you enjoy doing for fun?

I love the outdoors - kayaking, running, biking, swimming, waterskiing, skate skiing, and boating. I love watching and attending all levels of sporting events.

Renee Hancock, PT, DPT

Renee received her Doctorate of Physical Therapy degree from the University of Minnesota in 2007. She has a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Minnesota. She has 15 years of orthopedic experience and additionally specializing in pelvic floor physical therapy during the past 5 years. She enjoys the opportunity to hear her patient’s stories and to work alongside them to develop the best plan for helping each patient reach their goals. Her area of expertise includes manual therapy, pelvic pain, urinary urgency/ frequency, urinary leakage, bowel dysfunction, pelvic organ prolapse, pregnancy and postpartum concerns, TMD, vestibular conditions, spine conditions, various injuries from cervical to foot/ankle, return to work and return to sport.

Why did you become a Physical Therapist?
I became a physical therapist because my best friend in high school had an injury during volleyball, and I went to a few of her appointments with her while she was recovering. I knew I wanted to do something in the medical field and after those appointments, I realized what an awesome job it would be to help people recovering from injuries and getting back to the life they love!

Outside of working what do you enjoy doing for fun?

Outside of work, I enjoy being outdoors taking the dog for a walk, hiking, kayaking, and gardening. In the winter, I enjoy watching my kids play hockey.

Melissa Vanderlinde, PT, DPT

Melissa earned her Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences and has a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from the University of Minnesota Duluth. Melissa is passionate about getting to know her patient’s and helping them return to recreational and daily living activities and attain all other desired physical health and mobility goals. She values the ability to share her knowledge and promote a healthy lifestyle with patients ranging from pediatric to geriatric. Her area of expertise includes manual therapy, dry needling, blood flow restriction, return to sport, return to work, running related injuries, post op hip, knee, ankle/ foot, lower extremity injuries, strength and conditioning, overuse injuries, incontinence, urgency, pregnancy and postpartum concerns, diastasis recti, prolapse, and constipation.

Why did you become a Physical Therapist?

While running cross country in high school I got injured and worked with a very influential PT who inspired me to learn more about sports injuries and helping people get better. Which led me to find my love for physical therapy and helping people get back to doing what they love.

Outside of working what do you enjoy doing for fun?

In my free time I spend time with my husband and son and our two dogs, I am an avid long-distance runner, and a Wayzata Cross Country Coach. I also like to bike, hike, swim, skate, and ski.

Connor Knutson, PT, DPT

Connor pursued a degree in Physical Therapy at Arcadia University, which he completed in 2023. He has a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Hamline University. Connor has worked with athletes at all levels—from weekend warriors to professional competitors— helping them recover from injuries and return to peak performance. He has developed a passion for not only treating injuries but also educating athletes, coaches, and the general public on how to prevent them. Connor is an avid strength trainer and coach. This personal passion for fitness has given him a unique perspective on how the body responds to exercise and injury. His area of expertise include concussion, return to sport, overuse injuries, post-op ortho, and return to work.Nutrition Specialist

Why did you become a Physical Therapist?

Growing up I was an athlete who was very prone to injuries. I spent a considerable amount of time in rehab and through that process, I was always able to return to the field. As a result, I fell in love with the rehab setting and helping people get back to the activities they love.

Outside of working what do you enjoy doing for fun?

I spend a lot of my free time strength training and reading. Depending on the time of year, I like to hike Minnesota’s state parks. When I can, I love to get together with my friends to play Dungeons and Dragons.

Rachel Carter

Christi Jo Christian, DC, ICCSP

Founder | Chiropractic Sports Physician

Dr. Christian is the founder of iBackCheck Sport Therapy, where she leads a forward-thinking approach to injury recovery by integrating chiropractic, physical therapy, and massage therapy. She believes this collaborative model is the fastest and most effective path to healing and long-term performance.

A native of Minnesota and a graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic, Dr. Christian is an Internationally Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician with extensive experience working at the highest levels of sport.

Athletic Experience Includes:

Medical Staff, 2012 Susan G. Komen 3-Day
Medical Staff, 2013 World Racquetball Championships
Sports Chiropractor, 2016 Wayzata Boys Hockey State Champions
Medical Staff, 2016 Team USA U18 Boys Hockey World Championships
Medical Staff, 2018 USHL Fall Classic
Team Physician, PWHPA Team Minnesota (2021)
Volunteer Medical Services, Penn State Women’s Hockey (2022–Present)

Outside of working what do you enjoy doing for fun?

Outside of working, Dr. Christian is a wife, mother of three hockey players, avid runner, and hockey player herself. She lives what she teaches and understands firsthand what it takes to keep the body performing at its peak. Whether she’s watching her kids on the ice, running with her two labs, or heading out on a family ski or fishing trip, she brings the same energy and passion to her personal life that she brings to every patient she treats.

Brianna Faber
Chiropractic Intern

Brianna is interning with us for her final trimester of Chiropractic college and is set to graduate this June! During her time at Palmer College of Chiropractic, she had the opportunity to compete at the World Ringette Championships with Team USA ringette in Finland, where they won gold.

Her experiences in high-level sport have given her firsthand insight into the physical and mental challenges that athletes face. Through rigorous training, competition, and the occasional setback, she has developed a deep appreciation for the importance of injury prevention and management. This has fueled her desire to support athletes in preventing injury and enhancing performance through tailored chiropractic care.

She aspires to work with athletes of all levels, from athletes of life to professional athletes, helping them navigate the complexities of training.

Outside of working what do you enjoy doing for fun?

Outside of the clinic Brianna enjoys strength training, running, and playing ringette. When she's not on the move, she enjoys winding down with a good book.

Auto and Work Injury Care at iBackCheck.

Injuries from auto accidents or work-related incidents can disrupt your life and limit your ability to perform daily activities. At iBackCheck, we are dedicated to helping you recover quickly and effectively so you can get back to doing what you love.

We specialize in treating musculoskeletal injuries which makes us better equipped to handle work and auto injuries. Our team works directly with insurance providers to ensure your care is covered. Our goal is to make your recovery process as smooth and stress-free as possible.

Why Choose Us?

Personalized Treatment Plans: We take the time to understand your unique needs and create a treatment plan tailored to your recovery.

Comprehensive Injury Assessments: Whether it’s a soft tissue injury, back pain, or neck discomfort, we provide thorough evaluations to address the root cause of your pain.

Insurance Collaboration: We work directly with insurance companies to ensure your treatments are covered, so you can focus on healing, not paperwork.

Ongoing Support: Recovery doesn’t stop after your first visit. We provide continuous support to guide you through your healing process, helping you return to optimal wellness.

Getting started with us after an auto injury:

Report Your Injury: After an accident, you should report your injury to your auto insurance provider and open a medical claim. This is often referred to as a Personal Injury Protection (PIP) claim.
Contact Us with the Following Information:
Your PIP claim number and insurance company
The date of your accident
The name and phone/email of your claims adjuster
A prescription or referral from your doctor or chiropractor, although you do not need a prescription if involved in an auto accident.
Schedule Your Appointments. We will coordinate with your insurance company to verify your coverage and claim details and handle all necessary documentation so you can focus on your recovery.
Attorneys. We will work with your attorney if you have one or can recommend an attorney if you need one.
Getting started with us after a work injury:
Contact Us with the Following Information:
Your worker’s comp claim number and insurance company
Your date of injury
The name and phone/email of your claims adjuster or case manager
A prescription or referral from your physician (if applicable)
We Handle the Insurance Coordination: Once we have your information, our team will contact your adjuster or case manager to request and track your treatment authorization. We will get approval from your worker’s compensation insurance prior to scheduling to ensure your treatment is covered.
Schedule Your Appointments: Once your authorization is in place we will reach out to you to schedule your visits.

Patient Experiences

Our patients share their transformative experiences at iBackCheck Sport Therapy, highlighting the effectiveness of our treatments in improving their health and well-being.

Brian

iBackCheck and their Chiropractic and PT services have been instrumental in providing medical services to both my hockey focused daughter and my son in college. Dr. Christi was highly recommended to us for injury treatment and on going sports care. My kids have been patients there now for several years. My wife and I highly recommend them for others.

Hayley

Let me start with saying Dr. Christian has an entire team of rock stars!! Their wealth of knowledge in both their healthcare expertise to their wide variety of personal athletic experiences is beyond anything else. Whether you are an athlete in training, trying to get back on your feet from an injury during the daily grind, or an Olympian, iBackCheck will be your go-to for any pain treatment or physical therapy programs. 10 out of 5 stars!!!

Kelly

I’ve received chiropractic care and physical therapy at IBackCheck several times over the past 2-3 years, with consistently excellent results. My kids have seen Dr. Christian as well, both for MVA- and sports-related injuries. I’m extremely confident in the care provided by IBackCheck staff. My family has avoided medications, injections, etc. under their treatment, for both chronic and acute injuries. I’d highly recommend them!

Chad

Found this gem while rehabbing a recurring low back issue. Absolutely the best service! I had the most thorough assessment for my issue, more then the doctor's office, more than the chiropractor. I learned a ton and every minute spent with PT was useful and purposeful. Highly recommend!