I started my practice in October of 1981. That doesn’t feel like it was so long ago when I say it, but when I stop and think about it, that was a long time ago! The world was a very different place in 1981. Cars were different. Hair styles were different. How we dressed was different. The TV shows were different.
Health care was different too. When I opened my doors in 1981, chiropractic was not recognized by the AMA as a legitimate health care providing profession. That recognition actually did not happen until 1990. Chiropractic was not included in automobile accident insurance claims or workers’ compensation injury claims in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. In fact, the vast majority of my patients did not have health insurance coverage for going to see their doctor. There were some who had Major Medical insurance, which was a form of hospitalization insurance. Health care was an out-of-pocket expense for the most part.
It is interesting to note that today, the AMA and their medical journals report that the preponderance of evidence shows that chiropractic care is outstanding at pain relief and tissue repair for musculoskeletal injuries. In fact, these journals advise the medical physicians to recommend a trial of conservative chiropractic care first, before engaging in a prescription medicine treatment or surgical intervention. That is a very dramatic turn of circumstances.
The patient that comes to the chiropractor today can expect to go through an extremely thorough examination and history. Today’s chiropractor wants to know not only how and when the problem started, but also the patient’s historical background, occupational and recreational activities, as well as what the expectations are of the patient in regard to the chiropractic treatment.
Today’s chiropractor wants to deliver the fastest, safest, most effective pain relief possible, and do it without medications. The chiropractor is not done there, though. The chiropractor of today knows that the long-lasting relief they deliver depends on repairing the tissues and structures that are malfunctioning which are causing the pain. The chiropractor also knows that the newly repaired tissue and structures will need to be rehabilitated as well as exercised in order to restore the full function and vibrancy that the patient expects.
At Weber chiropractic, we pride ourselves in meeting all of these criteria. In fact, we try to take it to a level higher. We include our patients in the development of their care plan. We have found that when the patient participates in the planning of their own recovery, they seem more motivated and more enthused about “doing what it takes” to reach their health goals.
We also do our best to make sure that each patient feels that they are part of a supportive community. We encourage our patients to communicate not only with us, but to engage in communication and sharing of their experiences on our social media platforms as well. One of the best ways to gain confidence, feel encouraged, and get motivated is to be part of the community of people that have “been where you are now”. People discover that they can even find accountability partners on our platforms! A case in point is our Walk Club that meets every Saturday to hold each other accountable to a commitment to walking exercise at least once per week. Always remember, that I am able to be emailed or direct messaged to answer any questions you may have. I believe that today’s communication capabilities are essential in giving support to patients that need to be in contact with a health professional. Please join me on my social media platforms and take advantage of that opportunity.
Yep! 1981 WAS a long time ago! I really think we are in a better place today as far as health care goes. If you are looking to gain that vibrancy, that high energy, and that get-up-and-go that seems to be missing in your life, please reach out to us. You can click on the calendar tab on the left side of the home page and schedule an appointment, DM me from Facebook, call me, or email me. I am here to serve you. Finally, I would be honored if you were to share this message with a family member or friend that you think might benefit from our services.
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