Caring for you

There are many similarities between physical therapists and chiropractors but also important differences that people should be aware of.

Let’s start with the many similarities between physical therapists and chiropractors. As a profession, both Doctors of Chiropractic and Doctors of Physical Therapy strive to improve the quality of life of the respective patients. Both do so by affecting the nerves, muscles, joints and supporting tissues of the body. Additionally, collaboration with a patient's established health care team is an approach that both professions take, in order to create desired outcomes. Another important thing to note is that both professions seek non-pharmaceutical and non-surgical approaches.

When it comes to training and education, Chiropractors and Physical Therapists have extensively studied the human body and the various different ways in which the body can break down and experience problems. With their collective knowledge, and a variety of therapy options, Chiropractors and Physical therapists are able to support great patient outcomes. From therapies like dry needling and taping techniques to traction and soft tissue mobilization techniques, there are great options that both professions implement.

With so many clear similarities it may leave you wondering if there really is a difference after all? There is! Chiropractors will primarily use the Chiropractic Adjustment as a means to correct a patient's presenting problem while a Physical Therapist will turn to primarily exercises.

In my personal wellness journey, I have used both Chiropractors and Physical Therapists to guide my well-being. While this is a very broad generalization, I think it is safe to say that there are far more similarities than differences.

As you consider who you will be partnering with for your health journey, it is wise to consider what makes that person the best choice for your needs. When considering chiropractic care, there are a range of qualities and skills that distinguish a good Chiropractor apart from a less effective one.

Expertise and Knowledge: A good Chiropractor has a solid understanding of anatomy, physiology, biomechanics, and rehabilitation techniques. They stay updated with the latest research and developments in their field.

Communication Skills: Effective communication is crucial for a Chiropractor to understand their patients' needs, explain treatment plans, and motivate them to adhere to a plan of care.

Empathy and Compassion: Empathizing with their patients' struggles and tailoring care plans to meet their individual needs is the mark of a great chiropractor As they do so, they create a supportive environment that fosters trust and collaboration. Most importantly, it helps drive great outcomes for patients!

Clinical Reasoning: A good Chiropractor can assess a patient's condition accurately, identify underlying issues, and develop evidence-based treatment plans that address the root cause of the problem.

Hands-On Skills: Chiropractors take a specific approach in their ability in delivering a Chiropractic Adjustment. It is one of the three most important aspects of their training. It is referred to as the “Art” of our practice.

Adaptability: Every patient is unique, and their response to treatment may vary. A good Chiropractor can adapt their approach based on the patient's progress, changing needs, and any unforeseen challenges. Flexibility matters!

Motivational Skills: Consistent effort and perseverance from the patient is needed to get the relief and quality of life that is desired. A good Chiropractor motivates their patients to stay committed to their plan of care, encouraging them to overcome obstacles and reach their goals. When working with a good chiropractor it should feel like a team effort!

On the other hand, a bad chiropractor may lack some or all of these qualities. They might demonstrate poor communication, lack empathy, provide outdated or ineffective treatments, fail to adapt their approach, or even exhibit unprofessional behavior. Such therapists may not only be ineffective in helping their patients but could also potentially cause harm or exacerbate existing conditions.

When it comes to determining the best Chiropractor for your needs, consider the experiences of others. Ask around and determine who you know that has worked with a particular Chiropractor. Check them out on social media and see the type of content they are sharing and how they are interacting with their patients. Do a little bit of digging and research to make sure you are not settling for a mediocre Chiropractor but that you are truly partnering with a great one who will help you live your best life!

Recently I was presenting to a class at Radford University and this question came up from the group. After 19 years in the profession, I feel confident that this is a deeply personal response, but here it is.

Everyday, I work to build a world in which the vast majority of us wake up inspired for better health. That’s my creed, that’s my mantra, that’s my just cause. It has taken me years to not only personalize this but to put it into words. Truthfully, I had a lot of help from my favorite author, Simon Sinek. So what’s so tough about this, well, a lot of people don’t prioritize their health. And that is their journey. But everyday, I see the limits that people put on themselves from achieving tremendous improvements. Everyday, I see people who opt for a quick fix and a temporary pain relief. And this is a tough reality. But why is it so tough? Well, because everyday I get to experience people doing the exact opposite, living their passion. I see 71 year olds doing triathlons. I see 14 year olds getting back on the court after a “season-ending” injury. I see couch potatoes motivated to do a 5k. This goes on. Truthfully, the miracles that I see everyday inspire me to love this profession. Knowing that I am but a small part of the healing process, but sometimes it is the critical part.

I bet you thought I was going to say something about the stereotype of being a chiropractor or “not being a real doctor” or lack of acceptance by the medical community. Nope, nope and nope. After 19 years in this profession, I can attest that those things don’t even register with me. I know that some people will opt for a pill over an adjustment. I get it. I know that some doctors don’t agree with the philosophy of chiropractic which is to awaken a person’s inborn or innate healing potential. I know that there are lots of stereotypes about my profession, but I have seen too much to be bothered by someone else’s opinion.

The popping noise often heard during a chiropractic adjustment is called cavitation. It occurs when there is a sudden release of gas bubbles within the synovial fluid that lubricates the joints. When a chiropractor applies a constructive force to a joint during an adjustment, it can cause a temporary decrease in pressure within the joint, which allows nitrogen gas bubbles to rapidly expand, creating the popping sound. This release of gas is usually accompanied by a sensation of relief and an increased mobility in the joint. While the popping noise may be a cool side effect, it is typically not associated with any pain or harm to the joint. Normal cavitation occurs throughout our joints naturally with movements. So it is safe for the joint to do so. Here is a really cool MRI that captured the gas expansion.