Every two weeks, if you choose to, you can read my thoughts on various issues relevant to chiropractic and the profession. You may not always agree, but it should give you some food for thought. With all of the current concern about what has been termed the "orthopractic movement," it is time to present my opinion on this issue in no uncertain words.
One of the most disturbing events to occur in recent chiropractic history is the question of portal of entry for chiropractic care. The history of chiropractic has been fraught with battles for the right of DCs to have direct access to treat the public. So far we have been successful, but the orthopractic movement seems to want to destroy that position.
According to the Patient Guidelines for Spinal Manipulative Practice, published by the Orthopractic Manipulation Society (OMS):
"By definition, an orthopractor is a 'self-limited specialist' whose discipline does not include general healthcare."While the orthopractic guidelines state that orthopractors have "direct access to patients," they state: "Any and all specialist treatment should be with the full knowledge and CONSENT of your family physician." (emphasis added).
But how does this really work?
When Consumer Reports presented their "investigation" on chiropractic, their recommendations were:
"If you are thinking about going to a chiropractor for back pain, proceed with caution and follow these guidelines.Just think, if the MD says your services are needed, the Orthopractic Manipulation Society may recommend you if: 1) you're a member; 2) if your phone conversation goes well; 3) and if you don't say you do any of the following:"See your physician first"
"Get a referral from a reliable source" (the National Association for Chiropractic Medicine or OMS).
"Have a chat on the phone."
"Watch for the warning signs."
Use x-rays to diagnose*
Manipulate children
Believe in the subluxation complex
Treat holistically
Use homeopathy
Use nutritional health care
Are against surgery
Use chiropractic for disease prevention
And many other "non-scientific" practices
If you pass the test, you could be allowed to see this patient!!
Interestingly enough, physical therapists can also becoming "orthopractors." The good news is that they will finally achieve equality with some chiropractors. The bad news is that they must sacrifice the possibility to have direct access to patients.
Looking at who is behind the "orthopractic" movement, you may recognize two of the names:
Charles DuVall, DC -- If you haven't had the pleasure of having Dr. DuVall review a reimbursement claim, you may have seen his very critical comments on "CBS Eye on America," the recent "20/20" hit piece, or his comments in an article in Pediatric Management.
Murray Katz, M.D. -- testified against chiropractic before the New Zealand Commission. He also made critical comments in Pediatric Management, and on "20/20."
Some believe that Dr. Katz worked as a consultant for the Consumer Reports article that endorses the Orthopractic Manipulation Society (please see "Consumer Reports Tackles Chiropractic" beginning on the front page of this issue). One of the reasons for this conjecture comes from the 23rd chapter of the report by the New Zealand Commission on chiropractic** which states:
"We would add this. Dr. Katz told us that he believed he had been instrumental in influencing the views of Mr. Joseph R. Botta, who is the executive director of the United States Consumers Union, and that the union's report on chiropractic (see Chapter 21) contained in the September and October 1975 issues of its magazine (Consumer Reports) had been materially influenced by Dr. Katz's views.Only a traitor would give up chiropractic to become an "orthopractor." Only an idiot would give up patient access.
Less than one year ago, many DCs were calling us, frightened out of their minds over the Clinton health reform bill. Most hadn't read it. Instead they became the chiropractic equivalent of Henny Penny. Chicken Little told them the profession was doomed, and they believed it.
Yes, the world is changing. Yes, you will have to adapt.
It is my belief that the "orthopractic movement" is preying on the fears of uncertainty. There is no magic in becoming subservient to the medical profession. There is only the tragedy of betraying your profession and yourself.
------------------------- * Taken from the orthopractic guidelines and other OMS literature
When sports chiropractors first appeared at the Olympic Games in the 1980s, it was alongside individual athletes who had experienced the benefits of chiropractic care in their training and recovery processes at home. Fast forward to Paris 2024, where chiropractic care was available in the polyclinic for all athletes, and the attitude has now evolved to recognize that “every athlete deserves access to sports chiropractic."
It is estimated that 61% of patients with CTS avoid taking surgical options due to postoperative complications and costly surgical procedures. Chiropractic care offers a comprehensive and effective treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome, addressing the condition from multiple angles. Recent studies also have unveiled a game-changing adjunct to chiropractic treatments for CTS: nerve flossing.
Some doctors thrive in a personality-based clinic and have a loyal following no matter what services or equipment they offer, but for most chiropractic offices who are trying to grow and expand, new equipment purchases help us stay relevant and continue to service our client base in the best, most up-to-date manner possible. So, regarding equipment purchasing: should you lease, get a bank loan, or pay cash?
