For Neil Schlupp, work can be a real pain in the neck.

And back.

And even shoulder.

Schlupp has run the Montgomery Chiropractic Clinic in downtown Montgomery for more than 25 years.

Before he put his business roots down in the village, he was a full-time assistant professor at the National University of Health Sciences. In October of 1986, he purchased the chiropractic practice and building at 112 N. River St.

He has seen his business flourish through the years.

“As my practice grew into the community, it was well received,” Schlupp said. “And it was one of those things where I saw the need to stay in the community.”

In 2000, he bought the land his practice was on and tore down the existing building. A year later, he opened a new building on the property, which included space for additional tenants. His practice is now located at 212 Webster St.

“I was originally going to build office space for just me but then I sat down with the developer and I had a vision to make something happen in the downtown and try to allow for some more business development,” Schlupp said.

The move has proven to be a success. Besides the Montgomery Chiropractic Clinic, the development also includes a hair salon, the Montgomery Economic Development Corporation offices, and an antique shop.

“He has invested a great deal in working with the village to build the downtown,” said MEDC Executive Director Charlene Coulombe-Fiore.

Schlupp is one of the founding members of the MEDC and the current chair. He was also a founding member of the Greater Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce and served on the executive board.

He said both organizations afforded him the opportunity to become a member of the village's Revolving Loan Committee, which evaluates and makes loans to businesses wishing to expand or locate in the village.

“I feel very fortunate to have a very successful practice in this community,” Schlupp said. “Over my 26 years here I have had the opportunity to provide chiropractic care to many people and now find myself treating second and third generations of the same family. In addition, I strongly felt the need to give back to this community as well with my time and money.”