. However, translating such evidence into actionable strategies often poses a challenge. This post aims to provide insights on how chiropractors can make the best use of evidence-based guidelines, courtesy of experts in the field.
Research consistently suggests that following guideline recommendations can improve the quality of care and clinical outcomes in chiropractic settingsRecommendation | Description |
---|---|
Ensure care is patient-centered | Care that accounts for individual preferences and incorporates shared decision-making |
Screen for red flag conditions | Identify possible serious pathology |
Assess psychosocial factors | Includes emotions, fears, social support, and recovery expectations |
Use imaging selectively | Consider when serious pathology is suspected, or there has been limited response to care |
Undertake a physical examination | Assess mobility, strength, position and proprioception, and neurological function when applicable |
Monitor patient progress | Evaluate using validated outcome measures |
Provide education/information | Inform about condition and management options |
Address physical activity/exercise | Recommend normal physical activity or other exercise when applicable |
Use manual therapy only as an adjunct | Use manual therapy with other treatments in the context of multimodal care |
Offer high-quality non-surgical care prior to surgery | Offer conservative care prior to considering surgery |
Try to keep patients at work | Encourage continuation and/or early return to work |
Accurate assessment and diagnosis of musculoskeletal problems can be challenging due to overlapping conditions with similar symptoms. This underscores the importance of physical examinations to assess key factors, including mobility, strength, and neurological function.
Contrary to being the sole intervention, manual therapy should be integrated into a multi-modal approach whenever possible. Exercise and self-management are crucial co-interventions that should be incorporated into the treatment plan.
Education is an indispensable component of patient care. The evidence strongly supports incorporating educational components into all clinical encounters4, providing benefits such as reduced pain-related distress, increased patient awareness, and enhanced ability to cope.
A checklist, either paper-based, electronic, or mental, can serve as a useful tool to implement best practice recommendations consistently. This not only promotes a strong doctor-patient relationship but also improves clinical outcomes.
CCEDseminars' Chiropractic Continuing Education Online Courses offer a comprehensive guide on these best practice recommendations, giving you the tools you need to elevate your practice. Stay tuned for more actionable insights and education opportunities to boost your chiropractic care quality. Click HERE for link to our Evidence Based Practice Programs.
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