| Summary: | Dissertation submitted in partial compliance with the requirements for the Masters Degree in Technology: Chiropractic, Durban University of Technology, 2009. === Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine the current role of the
Chiropractor in the Patient-Centred Approach to Stress Management.
Methods: Chiropractors were contacted telephonically in order to discuss a
convenient time in which they are free to receive the questionnaire at their
practice. The questionnaire was developed specifically for this particular research
project and verified through the use of a focus group and pilot testing. The
researcher waited outside the room whilst the Chiropractor completed the
questionnaire. The questionnaire was then collected after completion prior the
researcher leaving the practice, in order to improve the return of the
questionnaires.
Results: Seventy-five percent of chiropractors, in the study indicated that they
took a psychosocial history which may indicate that they utilised the fundamental
biopsychosocial theme of ‘patient-centeredness’. 68.9% of chiropractors who
took a psychosocial history indicated that they are equipped with the necessary
skills to evaluate psychosocial stressors in patients and 55.6% indicated that
their patients responded ‘Very Positively’ to their stress management protocols.
All the Chiropractors in the study indicated that they had consulted patients who
had associated their main complaint with stress related issues. 38.3% of
Chiropractors felt that their patients ‘Often’ associated their main complaint with
stress-related issues whilst 35% felt that their patients ‘Very Often’ relate their
main complaint with stress-related issues. Muscle spasm (85%) was the most
common symptom or sign found or elicited in a patient suffering with chronic
stress. Referral was the most common primary method of treatment with 36% of
Chiropractors utilising this method in the clinical setting when dealing with a
stressed patient.
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Conclusion: Chiropractors in the study indicated that they took a psychosocial
history therefore they utilised the fundamental biopsychosocial theme of ‘patientcenteredness’
and that the majority indicated that they are equipped with the
necessary skills to evaluate psychosocial stressors in patients and that patients
responded positively to their stress management protocols.
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