PATIENT PERCEIVED EFFECTIVENESS OF A COURSE OF CHIROPRACTIC CARE IN A TEACHING CLINIC FOLLOWING INITIAL EXPOSURE TO CHIROPRACTIC THROUGH A PUBLIC SPINAL SCREENING

Abstract

Objective: To describe the attitudes and perceptions of patients introduced to chiropractic through public spinal screening, prior to and following a course of chiropractic care focused on the correction of vertebral subluxation.

Methods: Individuals receiving care at a chiropractic teaching clinic, after exposure to a public spinal screening were surveyed regarding their attitudes and beliefs about chiropractic care. Along with socio-demographic information (i.e., gender, age by decade), the respondents were asked their opinion on the effectiveness of chiropractic care, prior to and post commencement of care. Additionally, the respondents were asked what other health benefits they experienced beyond alleviation of their presenting complaint.

Results: A total of 94 respondents (47% male, 53% female) were surveyed, with the largest group of respondents (42%) being between 31-50 years old. Respondent perceived effectiveness of chiropractic care for their presenting complaint, prior to and after a trial of care, was indicated by 65% and 94% respectively. Additional benefits beyond the presenting complaints were reported by 90% of respondents. Reported benefits included improvement in digestion; energy; less stress; improved toilets habits; improved sleep; improved sense of wellbeing; improved respiration, improved strength, improvements in exercise, improvement in state of mind and increased physical stamina.

Conclusion: This study suggests that in this sample, patient perceived effectiveness of chiropractic care was beyond relief of musculoskeletal symptoms only.  Furthermore, this sample may not have chosen to seek chiropractic care without the exposure from the public spinal screening