Carolyn McMakin, MA, DC

Dr. Carolyn McMakin a 1993 graduate of Western States Chiropractic College, is the clinical director of the Fibromyalgia and Myofascial Pain Clinic in Portland, Ore. She has lectured at the National Institutes of Health and at medical conferences in the U.S., England, Ireland and Australia on fibromyalgia and myofascial pain syndrome, fibromyalgia associated with cervical spine trauma, and on the differential diagnosis and treatment of pain and pain syndromes and sports injuries. Her textbook, Frequency Specific Microcurrent in Pain Management, was published by Elsevier in 2010.

Previous Articles

The Challenging 20%: Simplifying the Treatment of Chronic Pain
April 15, 2013 (Vol. 31, Issue 08)
Trending
Billing / Fees / Insurance
Should You Be In-Network or Out-of-Network With Insurance?
Should You Be In-Network or Out-of-Network With Insurance?

It’s a new year and many chiropractors are evaluating what will enhance their respective practices, particularly as it relates to their bottom line. One of the most common questions I get is: “Do I need to be credentialed to bill insurance, and what are the best plans to join?” It’s a loaded question – but one every DC ponders. Whether you're already in-network or pondering whether to join, here's what you need to know.

Samuel A. Collins
X-ray / Imaging / MRI
Radiologist-Missed Spinal Tumor Found by Chiropractor
Radiologist-Missed Spinal Tumor Found by Chiropractor

A 36-year-old female presented on Nov. 18, 2025, with lumbar pain and left lower extremity radiculopathy. Following a comprehensive history, physical examination, and radiographic evaluation to assess anatomical and biomechanical factors, an immediate lumbar MRI was ordered due to the patient’s radiculopathic symptoms and clinical findings.

Mark Studin, DC, FPSC, FASBE(C), DAAPM; Timothy Clare, DC, FPSC(C)
Billing / Fees / Insurance
Guidelines vs. Care: Bridging the Gap
Guidelines vs. Care: Bridging the Gap

What happens when best practices for patient care fall outside what guidelines endorse or insurance will cover? More importantly, how can clinicians ethically and effectively integrate non-reimbursed services that improve function, reduce disability and support long-term outcomes? These are not just clinical questions; they are economic and policy challenges that directly affect practice viability and patient access.

Christopher Proulx, DC, PhD(ABD), CSCS