What Our Patients Say
What others say about chiropractic care can help you make the right health care choice. Review a selection of Active Life Chiropractic patient testimonials below and please email me or contact the office if you have any questions.
Yours in Health,
Dr. Ness and Dr. Weigel
Pain Down Leg
I had pain on my left side, mostly down my leg. I couldn’t leave the house. I would limp so bad I had to stay put. After one treatment I felt better. Now I’ve had three treatments and the pain is all gone! I would recommend Dr. Sara to anyone with problems. I appreciate everything you have done for me. Also, thanks to Chuck S. for recommending me to Dr. Sara! ~ Minnie S., Retired
Amazing Healing
How did the pain affect your life before receiving chiropractic care?
“It affected my walking/sitting and everyday activities.”
How is your life better now?
“A lot less pain!”
What did the doctor and staff do to help you?
“Sit down with me and explain what my problem is and other doctors don’t do such a thing.”
What would you say is the most special part of your experience with Active Life?
“The way they treat me and talk to me!”
What would you say to someone who is hesitant or concerned about coming in for care?
“I would recommend Dr. Ness for back/severe pain. He has helped me get up and get going a lot better. I am now a lot more motivated!” ~ Wayne
Pelvic Pain

One word - “Aaaaahhhhh”. Thank you, Dr. Sara, for easing my chronic pelvic pain. Hobbling around, not being able to stand for periods of time, walk, let alone run with my dog, was not a way to live. For those who are hesitant – wellness care and pain relief is achieved with chiropractic care, not pills or shots. I had just moved back to Bismark, having had a great chiropractor where I lived in California. I was apprehensive about finding another and had one disappointing experience already. After my consultation visit with Dr. Sara, I knew I’d found my chiropractor in Bismarck! Not only does the concept make healthy sense – it works! Thank you Dr. Sara! ~ Stephanie K., Chemist, November 2011
Could Not Sleep

I have been going to Active Life Chiropractic and visiting Dr. Sara Weigel for about three years now. When I first went to Dr. Weigel I was in need of some help with pain I was having in my neck and between my shoulders. Dr. Weigel was very informative about what I needed to address in everyday life. I even found out that not using a pillow at night while I was sleeping could be the cause of the problems I had with my neck. I also work two labor intensive jobs that did not help the situation. Within a week and two sessions with Dr. Weigel, I was feeling better than I had in years. Now I have appointments set up on a regular basis and she helps keep me going without the pain that I once had. Thank You!
~ Chad S., October 2011
Back Injury

A back injury in the 1970s has had its lasting effects ever since. The slightest strain seemed to "throw my back out", leading me to go to chiropractors for what were quick adjustments. I'd be told to be careful, but it wouldn't be long until I'd need to show up again for more of the same.
It wasn't until I began treatment with Dr. Doug, who after a thorough testing using the latest technology and performing a complete physical examination established a complete program not only to adjust the affected areas but also to strengthen them through exercise and stretching as well. Dr. Doug consistently informed me as to where I was in the treatment plan, which we discussed at the beginning of treatment. My improvement has been dramatic.
Leah's deep tissue massages have complemented Dr. Doug's program to ensure that I'll be able to continue my active and enjoyable lifestyle. ~ John K., July 2011
Changed My Life
I was very uncomfortable. My life is a lot better, knowing I can come to Active Life to get help. Dr. Ness has showed me how to eat correctly and now I feel so much better with a lot more energy and food tastes so much better! Without all the extras, besides feeling better, I have lost 14 pounds in two months. Don’t be hesitant to come to Active Life, they can help you feel so much better! ~ Barb Ellison, Retired
Quick Relief!
My name is Grace. I have never believed in chiropractors until I met Dr. Sara.I had so much pain in my right leg that I couldn't sleep at night or fuction during the day. I had made 2 doctors appointments before I met her and all they did for me was give me medicine. The medicine didn't help at all and made me very sick. So then I decided to go visit Dr. Sara. In less then 3 visits, I was in such relief! I couldn't believe it! I would recommend her to all my friends and family. Thank you Dr. Sara, I appreciate everything you have done for me.~ Grace, Bismarck ND., Semi Retired, September 2011
More to the Pain
Before seeing Dr. Ness, I had a hard time sleeping at night because of the pain in my hip and back. I woke up in pain and was in pain throughout the day. After seeing Dr. Ness, I now feel more energetic and productive. I feel stronger and able to do things I was afraid to do before because of the pain.
Dr. Ness not only treats the pain, but he also explains what to do after treatment and the importance of diet and exercise.
The staff is very friendly and helpful. Dr. Ness seems to genuinely care about his patients. I would recommend Dr. Ness to anyone experiencing pain. He does a wonderful job and gives you back a more pain free, healthy, productive life!~ Bernadette Steckler, Retail Sales, September 2001
Dont' Wait, Don't Live wtih Pain!
Ever since I have been seeing Dr. Sara Weigel, my health has improved. She has helped me with several problems I have dealt with over the years. From foot pain due to plantar fasciitis, jaw pain from TMJ, back and hip pain and acid reflux.
My job has me on my feet all day and doing a lot of bending and twisting Dr. Sara and her staff have been great! They really care about their patients and do their best to help them. I have been to a lot of chiropractors over the years and I must say that I have had the best results from Dr. Sara.
I used to go to a chiropractor several times a week with little results. Since I have been going to Dr. Sara, I am a lot better and go longer in between treatments.
I would highly recommend Active Life Chiropractic to get you back on your feet and feeling better. Thank you for everything you have done! ~ Carol G., Housekeeper, February 2011
Abdominal Pain
I can’t believe how great I feel!
I was having abdominal pains for months and had gone to a family practice doctor, who referred me to a general surgeon, who had performed two surgeries, who then referred me to a GI specialist, and they could not pin-point my pain.
I was bringing my son to see Dr. Ness and asked him if he thought maybe he could help. Sure enough, I felt better after just two adjustments! Here, my back was out and affecting my organs.
My daughter even said, don’t get too close to mommy’s tummy the other day and I said, “After seeing Dr. Doug my pain is almost gone!” ~ Stacy B., Third Party Management Rep., February 2011

Lingering Back Pain
Ever since my hip surgery, back pain has been a lingering annoyance that has limited my play over the past year. Sometimes my hip pain would get bad to the point I thought another surgery was necessary. I am pleased to say my body feels better than ever due to getting adjusted regularly. No matter what pain or ache I may be crying or whining about, Dr. Weigel always has a cure. Without a doubt I feel like a new man each time I leave Active Life and I honestly believe Dr. Weigel and staff have saved my season, if not my career. In regards to pain relief, chiropractic care is the best kept secret! ~Anthony Goods, Dakota Wizards
Feeling Young Again!
I work in a restaurant and spend long days on my feet. It is really hard on my back. I also had a long high school career in wrestling. My back and neck were giving me a lot of problems, which included ongoing headaches. Active life has helped me get back to a normal life where I am able to be the young, energetic individual that I once was, and has made me feel like a new person. My results were fast and more than I had hoped for! Thank you Dr. Sara Weigel for helping me feel young again! ~Kyle L.
Reduced Daily Pain!
I have been seeing Dr. Weigel for several years and have always been pleased with the service provided. My life changed on October 10, 2007 when I was injured by a rocket attack in Baghdad, Iraq. I was MedEvac'd to Landstuhl, Germany with multiple injuries. During my road to recovery, I have had numerous operations and months of traditional medical rehab. My therapy regimen was working yet pain persisted. I started seeing Dr. Weigel to assist with pain management, and she was incredible in not only reducing the daily pain issues, but astonishingly, she assisted with my hearing loss. Dr. Weigel and her staff are wonderful and will continue to see me for years to come. I am a firm believer in chiropractic care and receive the best from Active Life Chiropractic. ~J.P. Moszer
Amazing Results
After wearing a 70 pound bullet proof vest for nearly an entire year, I had incredibly severe issues with back pain, which limited the physical activities I could perform. After being told over and over again that all I had wrong with me was a muscle strain, I decided to give chiropractic care a shot.
I had never been seen by a chiropractor before coming in for a visit with Dr. Doug Ness and Active Life chiropractic. I never imagined I would see the results I have.
After only 2 months, I had a noticeable change in pain and discomfort levels and I was able to enjoy my favorite sport, hockey, once again. Because of the care I received from the staff here at Active Life, I was also able to start an exercise routine you may have heard of, P90X, and began to get my life back together.
There is no doubt in my mind that had it not been for the care I’ve received from both Dr. Doug and Dr. Sara, I would not be as fit, or happy as I am today. These two awesome, caring people have truly given me my life back and for that, I am forever grateful. ~Jason J., Soldier
Backache
Coming to Dr. Ness for chiropractic was one of the best things I ever did for my health. I used to wake up every day with ahead and backache. After a few chiropractic visits the headaches were gone. It did take three to four months to straighten my spine but with Dr. Ness suggested for me, I have no more back problems. It may have taken a while but I do believe if you stick with it, chiropractic work will pay off! ~Debbie L., Housekeeper
Couldn't Move
I hurt myself playing a Wii game. I could not move. I went to Active Life and it helped me in the first treatment. After a few check ups, they found out I was having lots of headaches. They helped me and now I don’t have headaches. I have been going there ever since. I highly recommend it. ~Jordan, Student
Pain Free!
I have had sciatica pain and now have arthritis in my joints and have lower back pain. After going to Active Life Chiropractic and having treatments by Dr. Ness, I am feeling better and I have a lot more energy. Dr. Ness is a very pleasant person and explains fully what needs to be done and why. I would encourage anyone who has pain of any kind to try Dr. Ness. I am sure he can help you! ~Marjorie W., Retired
Don't Live With Pain!
I have lived with pain from my “hips” to my toes for many years, but just chalked it up to aging and years of abuse!! With high-impact exercise, bad shoes, etc. One day the pain became unbearable so much that I could not go to Curves, take my walks, sit, stand, or sleep. I was desperate! I called the sports med clinic and my doctor, but couldn’t get in for a week at either place. I’d never believed in chiropractors, but I knew that two had moved in a few doors down from Curves. I was in such pain that I just got in my car, drove there and begged for help! And help he did!
Turns out the pain stemmed from my lower back, not my hips. Dr. Doug Ness is a miracle worker! I walked out shortly thereafter with the pain alleviated. In just a few weeks I’m feeling better than ever. I believe that Dr. Ness’s all-around health plan for an “Active Life” is a good one and I will continue to follow his advice! ~Pat, Retired Office Manager
Couldn't Sleep
Dr. Sara Weigel was a great help to me. I came in with headaches and lower back problems. My right leg and foot fell asleep and hurt. It woke me up during the night and I couldn’t sleep. With Dr. Sara’s help, in no time at all, I felt really good, and much faster than I had thought as it was an old injury. I am very thankful for the help she has given me. ~Leona, Farm Wife
I Can Enjoy Life Again!
Dr. Sara, I should have sent you this note a long time ago, but after living with all that pain for so long I didn’t want to jinx myself! It being the season of the year for Thanksgiving, I just wanted to send you a very heartfelt “ THANK YOU SO MUCH!” My back was so bad for such a long time and you gave me my life back! I can now ride my hoses again, feed and clean up after them, and just plain work and enjoy life again! I keep myself toned and functioning by using the simple “yoga” moves you showed me. I will always be grateful to you for fixing me. I pray you have a wonderful Thanksgiving and Christmas season. ~Bonnie
You are in Great Hands
Dr. Weigel, I want to let your patients know they are in very good hands when they see you. I feel I have a very high tolerance of pain; but I feel I met my threshold last summer (2007). I was going to another chiropractor with little results. At my first chiropractor’s recommendation I went to my medical doctor who ordered a CT scan.
The results were a bulging disk in my neck, which was pinching a nerve in my left side causing a severe pain in my left shoulder and arm with numbness in the fingers of my left hand. My medical doctor recommended a steroid injection and if that did not help surgery was his next recommendation, I was not willing to do either unless it was a last resort. I had been thinking of trying Dr. Weigel and when one of my co-workers urged me to try, I did. I am a firm believer of the mechanical adjustment for me. It was not an overnight cure; but with Dr. Weigel’s skill and several months of treatments I feel great now and go back for monthly maintenance treatments. I feel I am back to where I was before I found out I had a bulging disk. Thank you so much for your help. ~Cyndy
Low back Pain
I came into Active Life with low back pain. I had problems walking and sitting as I had lifted a heavy container and pulled a muscle in my low back. Upon coming into the clinic-Dr. Ness took x-rays and checked my back and spine. He cracked my back and the next day I felt so much better. I was able to walk better, but I still had pain. I continued with intense therapy and exercise and eventually the pain had subsided and I am able to carry on with normal activities. I’m so grateful for the continued help and the improvement in my ability to function. ~Eileen E.
Saved Me From Surgery
I have been having neck problems since 1994. I had MRIs and x-rays. I have seen Medical Doctors, Neurologists, consulted with surgeons, been to physical therapy, seen several chiropractors, and even did acupuncture. I had spent thousands of dollars, and now I have finally found what I have been looking for, relief! I’ve made some adjustments in my life and Dr. Weigel and Dr. Ness are saving me from having surgery. I was also concerned with all the medications I was taking, and now I am DRUG FREE! I have found my home at Active Life Chiropractic for some comfort, and would recommend them to anyone.
After having all of my neck problems, my lower back started giving me problems. I put it off for so long. I was hoping it would go away on its own, but the pain was getting unbearable. Dr. Weigel made the adjustments to my low back, and what a difference it made! I can only write and say one thing, and that it is my own fault that I don’t go in more often for regular adjustments, because life is too short to be living in pain! ~ Thanks again, Chuck S.
My Baby Began Care at 2 Months Old
My two children having been coming to see Dr. Sara since Active Life Chiropractic opened its doors. My son started coming to see Dr. Sara at the age of 2 months. The reason I had her look at my son is because he was born C-section and, had to be suctioned out. I knew from experience that with my daughter, that his neck would need aligning. Dr. Sara did a thorough examination of Johnathan and explained everything she was going to be doing to him. I noticed a difference after his first visit, that he was holding his head a lot straighter. He also has had two ear infections that she helped with the fluid in his ears. He loves coming into see Dr. Sara and smiles and coos at her every time. I would highly recommend Dr. Sara to adjust any infant or child. Thanks Dr. Sara! ~Lisa T.
Couldn't Turn My Neck
Before I went to Dr. Ness at Active Life Chiropractic, I had a problem with my neck. It was difficult to drive because I was unable to turn my neck to the left. Dr. Ness adjusted my neck and gave me some encouraging advice on what I could do to help. I am now 100% better. Thank you, Doug! ~Joe Z.
Feels Great to be Well!
Dr. Doug Ness and Dr. Sara Weigel- Thank you for all the treatments you’ve given me and Jacob. It feels great to be well again. We even went to Minneapolis for Thanksgiving! ~Mary Ann and Jacob
My First Experience
Thank you so much for taking care of me in my time of need. You made my first experience with chiropractic care a very good one. Thank you! ~Katherine K.
Back on Track
My hip kept giving me pain, to the point it was difficult to sleep and walk. With the use of the computer adjuster and some manual hands on adjustments, they have put me back into align and life is much better. Guidance with stretching helped also. The staff is great and makes a point to get to know you. If you have an active life and need to get back on track, talk to the doctors at Active Life. ~Mark S.
Migraines
I used to get migraines two or more times a week, but after receiving treatment from Dr. Weigel, I immediately started seeing results. My life and my health have changed for the better. Of course, I still get an occasional headache every now and the, but the migraines, which used to leave me nearly bedridden, have completely disappeared. Thank You. ~Josh S.
Pain in Hip
“My hip was so sore that I couldn’t function. My hip was bothering me for about a half year. I started seeing Dr. Doug. After two visits my hip was like an amazing miracle. The pain was gone and I could do my regular activities. I commend Dr. Doug for his accomplishments.” ~Ken, Maintenance
Numbness
I didn’t really have pain, but I had numbness in my finger and weakness in my right tricep from a herniated disc. It was hard to lift weights at the gym. I have noticeable improvement in the strength of my right arm and minimal numbness. The adjustments and massage therapy aligned me and made me feel better. Jess was very helpful with showing me stretches and she and Kayla always had a smile to greet me with. The biggest difference I have noticed is the decreased muscle tension from the massages. I would tell anyone how much it has benefited me and how good I feel! ~Roy, Computer IT Specialist
No More Pain!
“It takes away the pain in my back and ankles.” ~ Andrew, Student
My Baby Needed Chiropractic Care
Before seeking chiropractic care, my 12-month-old son, Carson, was unable to scoot across the floor, crawl, pull himself up, or get himself from laying to sitting. After three treatments he could scoot across the floor. By his fifth treatment he was like a different child…crawling, standing, cruising, doing things he was supposed to be doing at his age.
Dr. Ness explained the areas of Carson’s spine that needed treatment. I was hesitant about seeking chiropractic care, but found it to be the one thing that actually helped Carson. My pediatricians didn’t know what to do about Carson and kept referring him to different specialists across the state. I thought seeing a chiropractor sounded like a better option to try first and I’m sure glad I did! It saved me time, money, and most importantly, made Carson better. ~ Angela, Day Care Provider
Couldn't Walk
I had such sharp pain I could hardly walk. After the first treatment I could walk, but not stand, which was still a difficulty. I’ve been having treatments twice a week and now I’m feeling better and can walk and stand. I’ve liked my experience at Active Life Chiropractic a lot and would tell other people to come to you for help. ~ W.H., Housewife
Monthly Migraines
I had monthly migraines and back and hip pain. Dr. Sara made my life bearable so that I could do my daily work and receptionists would make sure that they would get me in because some of the migraines were unbearable! The most special experience was trusting Dr. Sara in her expertise in treating my pain in my neck, back, and hips. Just give them a try and you will experience relief from your pain. ~ Susan, Clerical Worker
Constant Low Back Pain
“My lower back issues have caused much discomfort with sitting, walking, standing too long. After several months of lower back treatments I was introduced to Foot Levelers. I have been pain-free in the lower back and hip area. My former chiropractor was unable to resolve the issue. When I began going to Active Life Chiropractic I had numbness and tingling in my hands and fingers. That also has been cleared up and I no longer have that problem. ~ Tammie, Administrative Assistant
Ear Infections
Rylan had RSV and a double ear infection. He was totally miserable. He couldn’t breathe through his nose and was wheezing constantly. He wasn’t sleeping well at all and lost his appetite. After one treatment (yes, one!) with Dr. Sara we noticed a HUGE improvement. Within a half hour his breathing had improved immensely. The treatment also helped Rylan’s acid reflux and his digestive system. The entire staff at Active Life Chiropractic is friendly and caring. We tried everything for Rylan’s RSV and the fastest relief came from chiropractic. Dr. Sara is so gentle. I wish I would have brought Rylan in sooner! ~ Erin, Student
Severe Head, Neck and Back Pain
Prior to seeing Dr. Weigel I has such severe head, neck, and back pain. I was unable to do some of the things I enjoy such as riding horse and playing soccer. After just a few treatments I was able to resume my regular activities. Thank you, Dr. Weigel for helping me get my life back to normal. ~ Ashlie M., Student
Walking With Pain
Before I came to see Dr. Ness, I had a hard time walking without being in pain. Dr. Ness took x-rays to see what was causing my pain. After a month of chiropractic care, I haven’t felt this good in a long time! The staff at Active Life Chiropractic showed me stretches I can do at home to keep the problem from coming back. Thank you, Dr. Ness for all you have done for me. ~ Charles B., Retired Coal Miner
Walking Was A Challenge
After I broke my leg, I had a hard time walking. I tried doctors, but they always said that my walking would improve, but it never did. So, I went to Dr. Sara and I got 100 times better! So now I hardly even limp! I even snowboard better. ~ Carlee G., Student
Amazing NO Pain!
I had bilateral knee replacement in 2008. Before the surgery I couldn’t even clean my home because of pain and spent most of my time in my recliner. After the surgery my life changed. But it did leave me with a new problem: because of the two surgeries, my hips were off-center and I had some lower back pain.
My massage therapist recommended I see a chiropractor and my daughter recommended her chiropractor, Dr. Sara. So I made my first appointment and she has changed my life! She has brought my hips back in-line and taken care of my lower back pain. She has also worked on my new knees.
I can now play on the floor with my grandchildren. My granddaughter told me that I was so much more fun now. Can you imagine the fun I enjoy with them now?
Dr. Sara has also helped me with my hands tingling and falling asleep. That is no longer a problem.
Dr. Sara really cares. She has my eternal gratitude for giving me back my life. Thank you so much! ~ Gerry Ann, Retired
I Can Play With My Kids
Here is the testimonial that I WANTED to write for you. You really do a great job and are a leader in the chiropractic field, with the technology and know-how that you have. If you ever have a patient that is skeptical if chiropractic care works.... send them my way.
I just want to say a big THANK YOU for "fixing" my lower back pain. I have experienced lower back pain for nearly fifteen years and thought that I would experience it for the rest of my life. I have been to several other chiropractors and I had short-term pain relief in my back, but the pain was back the following day. In less than six months of treatments, I now can honestly say that my back pain is gone. I would recommend Dr. Weigel to everyone. She is truly a great doctor!
Now I can run and play with my two young kids and back pain is no longer an issue in the activities that I can do with them. I like that Dr. Weigel takes the time to explain to me what she is doing and how it effects other muscles and joints in the body and how it can be corrected. Thank you Dr. Weigel for all that you have done! ~ Jon E.,
Deputy Sheriff
Stiff and Sore
I used to wake up stiff and sore. I’m only seventeen- I know that shouldn’t happen. Dr. Ness has done an awesome job! I am more flexible, active, and my outlook on different situations has become more positive. I am looking forward to my upcoming rodeo season, not only because it’s fun, but because I’ll be physically ready. Throughout my sessions any questions that I had were answered and any pain I had disappeared. I am happy with my experience at Active Life Chiropractic and I encourage everyone to check it out! ~ Casey J.
Better Than Ever
Last fall I had injured my wrist, arm and shoulder, which made holding a cup of coffee or using a keyboard painful. After six months of hoping I would mend on my own, I visited my primary care physician who referred me to a physical therapist. I was told that recovery could take up to a year. At this point my daughter insisted that I see Dr. Sara Weigel. After two months I was back to my pre-injury activities. I still see Dr. Sara every three weeks to maintain my newfound mobility, which allowed me to stay much more active.
Thanks, Dr. Sara! ~ Mary Jo H.
No More Headaches
Life without daily headaches is a miracle. As far back as I can remember, I have always had headaches, some days were worse than others. I had no idea that this could be helped by a Chiropractor! Thanks to Dr. Weigel, I now know what it feels like to not have a headache, and it is wonderful! You would be surprised to learn how many things you think you have to live with and here Dr. Weigel and Dr. Ness can help you. They are awesome! ~ Charlene S.
Major Hip Injury
Four years ago I had a hip injury, which resulted in pain from the minute I woke up in the morning until I went to sleep. I lost out on activities that a normal teen was able to participate in. The pain took over my life and began to dictate it. I recently starting seeing Dr. Sara Weigel at Active Life Chiropractic, and she has helped get my pain under control. Previous doctors I had seen were unsure of how to treat my pain, but Sara has helped improve my hip and back. She knew exactly where my pain was stemmed from and how to treat it. Sara truly cares about the overall well-being and is excellent at her practice. (April 2010) ~ Holli N.
Chronic Headaches
“Before I came to Active Live there were days I would go home after work and cover my head with a pillow and take pain medication until the headache went away. I have had headaches for at least 10 years, at least 3-4 times a week, taking pain medication all the time. I have been coming to Active Life for 2 months now and have not had a headache since! I now sleep better and feel more energetic. The staff has been very helpful. Dr. Ness found the cause of my pain and relieved it! I would recommend to anyone who has had headaches for a long period of time to at least try chiropractic care. I am very glad that I have given it a shot. Thank you to Dr. Ness for all your help! ~ Lisa H., Bookkeeper/Secretary
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