Easing the Pain
Lending a helping hand is nothing new for Tim Smykal, DC. The Menomonee Falls-based chiropractor donates his time and talents to a number of organizations, including the Community Outreach Health Clinic.
"The president of my chiropractic school was a big proponent of volunteerism," Tim said, "and we had the opprotunity to work at the Salvation Army, where I met some fascinating people with unfortunate circumstances. I learned early on the importance of giving back to your community."
That lesson stuck and still informs the way Tiim leads his life. "I live here and have a practice here, so I want to be involved in my community as much as possible."
Seven years ago, Tim was treating nurses and physicians from Froedtert Health Community Memorial Hospital at his clinic, when he was approached to join the Community Outreach Steering Committee at the hospital. The committee makes grants to community organizations such as food pantries and social agencies, and the hospital's Community Outreach Health Clinic, which provides non-emergency care to low income and uninsured patients. "I signed on," said Tim, "and also asked if there were any chiropractors working with the clinic's patients." There weren't, so I offered to see patients in my office at no cost."
Patients are evaluated at the clinic, and then referred to Tim for treatment. Most, he notes, are dealing with neck problems, lower back pain or headaches. "I usually have three to four new patients a month through the clinic, and refer patients back to the clinic or hospital for further care, if needed."
Tim is clearly a man who likes to keep busy. He sits on the Booster Club Executive Board of Menomonee Falls High School, and donates his time to LaFleur's Academy of Gymnastics in Germantown, served as team doctor to the USA Powerlifting team for 12 years, treats professional and amateur athletes.
"I take pride in what I do and enjoy treating people," he said. "Just seeng a patient smile is wonderful."
Reprinted from Feeling Fine, Spring 2013, p.7. | 
