Spine Care as a Framework for the Chiropractic Identity

Abstract

Objective: The purpose of this commentary is to provide an argument for the role and identity of chiropractors as spine care providers within the context of the greater health care system.

Discussion: Surveys of the general public and chiropractors indicate that the majority of patients seek chiropractic services for back and neck pain. Insurance company utilization data confirm these findings. Regulatory and legal language found in chiropractic practice acts reveals that most jurisdictions define the chiropractic scope of practice as based on a foundation of spine care. Educational accrediting and testing organizations have been shaped around a chiropractic education that produces graduates who focus on the diagnosis and treatment of spine and musculoskeletal disorders. Spine care is thus the common denominator and theme throughout all aspects of chiropractic practice, legislation, and education globally.

Conclusion: Although the chiropractic profession may debate internally about its professional identity, the chiropractic identity seems to have already been established by society, practice, legislation, and education as a profession of health care providers whose area of expertise is spine care.

Keywords: Chiropractic; Spine.

Fig 1

Eight meta-competencies required of all graduates of Council on Chiropractic Education-Accredited Doctor of Chiropractic programs.

Fig 2

Clinical competencies that constitute the part 3 examination offered by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners.