Recently, Dr. Jamie Forster addressed members of the Applied Kinesiology Club at the Northeast College of Health Sciences (formerly New York Chiropractic College). The seminar was ostensibly about the examination, diagnosis, and treatment of concussion and the temporomandibular joint but students learned much more. They were exposed to a new mindset in chiropractic care – a more holistic approach that improves patient outcomes and doctor satisfaction.
Treating the Entire Patient
Dr. Forster used the example of a patient presenting with migraine headaches to get students thinking about treating the entire patient.
In this case, the woman had a history of sports injuries as well as an auto accident. Much to the surprise of many attendees, Dr. Forster shared that he orders bloodwork on most new patients.
Where many chiropractors only focus on the neuromuscular and skeletal systems, Dr. Forster stressed the importance of treating the entire patient. This includes, but isn’t limited to:
- Osseous adjustments
- Applied Kinesiology
- Nutritional counseling
- Supplementation programs
- Exercise and lifestyle guidance
- Muscle and clinical testing to aid in the differential diagnosis.
Instead of a narrow focus on neuromuscular and skeletal systems, the successful practitioner includes organ function and the emotional state of the patient.
In the instance of the woman with migraines, with the use of Applied Kinesiology and muscle testing with supplements, Dr. Forster was able to make a diagnosis that others had missed.
Audience Reaction
The message clearly resonated with the audience. According to Daniel Whytte, a student in attendance, “That diploma says Doctor of Chiropractic, and the word doctor comes first for a reason. Chiropractic adjustments are a tool, Applied Kinesiology is a tool, and you need to use every tool you have available to improve the health of your patients.”
Dr. Forster connected with the audience by encouraging participation. In the words of Whytte,” Dr. Forster engaged the audience and kept us alert. Some seminars they just talk at you, but Dr. Forster kept attention by drawing students in with questioning and rewarding with incentives”.
Improve Your Level of Care and Grow Your Practice
Are you ready to enhance your approach to chiropractic healthcare and grow your practice as a result?
Nutri-West and Nutri-West New York support continuing education for any licensed practitioner in the seven states of New England. Drs. Forster and Horowitz are ready to help become a full spectrum natural healthcare provider.
Earn CE credits or just expand your understanding of a specific topic.
Sign up to take advantage of Nutri-West New York’s in-person and virtual seminars. Topics range from nutritional effects on blood chemistry to a primer on more effective neuromusculoskeletal assessments.
When you treat the entire body, you’ll increase your effectiveness as a practitioner and change the lives of your patients for the better. You’ll enjoy the satisfaction of serving your patients to the best of your ability and generate more referrals as a result.