The 3 Game-Changers I Wish I Knew Sooner in Chiropractic Practice
3 Important Lessons I’ve Learned in Clinical Practice
Graduating in 2007, I thought I knew everything. Chiropractic school was challenging but very doable—I excelled, participated in multiple clubs, helped train the university soccer team, and was inducted into the honor society. Buoyed by these successes, I eagerly started my own practice in Atlanta, GA, convinced I was ready to conquer the world. In school, they made it sound so easy. But soon, I discovered it was anything but.
I remember opening my doors in January 2008. My office was tiny, just 80 square feet, in an old house with creaky floors. I had a new Ikea desk, a computer, a chiropractic table, a $20 Target lamp, and a clock from the same store. I showed up bright and early at 8 a.m., ready for my first patient. But no one showed up. Nobody called. I sat there, waiting. It was one of the most humbling experiences of my life.
Fast forward 17 years, and while some things have changed—I now see more weekly patients—I've learned invaluable clinical lessons. Here are three lessons I wish someone had told me when I was starting out.
1. Things Aren’t Commonly Textbook: Trust Your Clinical Judgement and Experience
In a seminar on instrument-assisted soft tissue mobilization, it was touted as a great treatment for plantar fasciitis. Armed with my new tools, I was confident I could handle any injury. A patient with severe plantar fascia pain came in, and I followed the textbook steps: soft tissue mobilization, foot adjustments, and exercises. But after seven treatments, there was no improvement. It was a humbling experience. Real patients don’t always follow textbook cases. I realized I was unprepared for a treatment not to work. I needed a plan B—whether a different approach or a referral to another practitioner. Be prepared for treatments not to work. Failing to prepare is preparing to fail.
2. Listen with Compassion and Empathy to Your Patients First
As both a healthcare provider and a patient, I know the importance of a good bedside manner. Dealing with autoimmune disorders, I’ve had doctors who seemed rushed, leaving me feeling defeated, unheard, and uncertain if my issue was addressed. Simply listening to patients accomplishes two things:
- Clinical Diagnosis: A good history can determine 85% of the diagnosis. Exams, MRIs, X-rays, and blood tests help, but in musculoskeletal health, listening to the patient's history is often the most crucial step.
- Happier Patients: Listening and acknowledging your patients’ pain shows empathy and compassion, often missing in modern medicine. Patients pay for your advice and expertise; the least you can do is listen. This is the foundation for providing a viable solution to their problems.
3. Don’t Ever Stop Learning
Chiropractic medicine has evolved since its inception in 1895. While we still perform manipulations or adjustments, our understanding of these approaches and diseases has progressed. The environment and our knowledge are constantly evolving, and so must our treatments. I’ve taken countless continuing education classes, each offering valuable insights I eagerly implement. I strive to educate my patients, providing them with actionable information and opportunities to ask questions. Make it a class and share the knowledge you’ve gained—scientifically, clinically, and anecdotally.
Reflecting on these three lessons has significantly shaped my journey as a chiropractor. When I started, I was brimming with confidence but lacked the practical experience and wisdom to navigate the complexities of real-world practice. The challenges I faced were invaluable learning opportunities, teaching me the importance of flexibility, empathy, and continuous education.
In conclusion, the journey from a newly graduated chiropractor to an experienced practitioner has been filled with lessons that go beyond textbooks. It's about adapting to real-world complexities, building genuine relationships with patients, and committing to lifelong learning. These principles have not only enhanced my practice but have also enriched my professional life, allowing me to provide the highest standard of care to those who seek my help. By sharing these insights, I hope to inspire other practitioners to embrace these lessons and continually strive for excellence in their own practices.