Dr. Ken Odegaard is trading spines for motorcycles as he retires. (Patti Hoffmann)
Dr. Ken Odegaard retires after 42 years at Old St. Anthony Chiropractic
by Patti Hoffmann
After 42 years of service, Dr. Ken Odegaard is retiring from his role as owner of the Old St. Anthony Chiropractic clinic, located at 21 4th St. SE. As one of Minnesota’s oldest continuously operating chiropractic clinics, the clinic holds a special place in the community, with Odegaard being the second chiropractor to take ownership. He purchased the clinic from Dr. Edward Rapacz in 1983.
Odegaard’s path to becoming a chiropractor began when he was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease during his senior year of high school. While he initially pursued traditional medical treatments, he found little relief. It wasn’t until a chiropractor identified imbalances in his spine, specifically affecting the autonomic nerves controlling his intestines, that he began to experience significant improvement. This inspired him to pursue a career in chiropractic care, and he has been helping others find similar relief ever since.
Over the past four decades, Odegaard has witnessed significant changes in the chiropractic field, especially in how medical doctors view chiropractic care. When he first started, he faced considerable skepticism and even animosity from many MDs, some of whom referred to him as a “quack.” Today, however, medical doctors are far more open to chiropractic care and recognize its benefits as part of a comprehensive healthcare plan.
Another significant change has been in the demographics of chiropractic patients. While older individuals once made up the majority of those seeking treatment for aches and pains, younger generations are now using chiropractic care as a regular part of their overall health and wellness routine.
Throughout his career, the most rewarding part for Odegaard has been watching his patients regain their health and return to normal functions. He has touched many lives in the Northeast community, with many patients becoming close friends and even like family to him. He is now treating clients from the fourth generation of families he has cared for.
As Odegaard prepares for retirement, he expressed his deep gratitude to the Northeast community: “I want to thank the people of Northeast for welcoming me into their lives and making me a part of their families. I am truly grateful for the privilege of serving this neighborhood for 42 years.”
Odegaard’s retirement plans include spending more time with his two sons — one in California and the other in Virginia. Ten years ago, as he considered retirement, he dreamed of traveling the country on his motorcycle and visiting all the national parks in the lower 48 states. Now, a decade later, his goal has shifted slightly: he plans to explore every Minnesota state park.
As he leaves his practice, he advises, “Stay true to your dream and never forgot your main reason is to help people live a better and heathier life. Work hard and remember you are a servant of God.”
Introducing Dr. Abdiasis Inshar
Taking over as the third owner of Old St. Anthony Chiropractic clinic is Dr. Abdiasis Inshar, who became the first Somali-American chiropractor in Minnesota. Inshar grew up in Northeast near Edison High School and graduated from the University of St. Thomas with a degree in biology. His passion for chiropractic care was ignited at a young age when he witnessed how chiropractic treatments helped his mother recover from a car accident. Eager to continue his education, Inshar is excited to take the reins of the practice. He welcomes patients from all walks of life and accepts most insurance plans.
Warners’ Stellian converts to outlet store
Warners’ Stellian, 2605 Broadway St. NE, has converted its retail operation there to an outlet store, Julie Carlson, marketing director, told the Northeaster. “We’ll be offering deep discounts – as high as 40% — on one-of-a-kind appliances, special orders that maybe weren’t picked up and items still in the box,” she said. She said the Northeast store is “ideal” for such an operation because there’s a warehouse attached to it that allows for quick distribution. Warners’ Stellian recently shut down its store on 54th and Nicollet Avenue.
Turkish/Bosnian restaurant Sofra Kitchen open
Sofra Kitchen, 3900 Silver Lake Rd., opened at the end of 2024. The restaurant, which is next to Verizon, offers Turkish meatballs, Uzbek pilaf and mushroom pasta as well as Turkish coffee, baklava and Simit bagels. Hours: 8:30 a.m.-9 p.m. 612-400-1055.