The Impact of COVID-19 on the Chiropractic Profession: A Cross-Sectional Survey on opinions, professional changes, and personal hardships of U.S. Chiropractors

Abstract

Background : Currently, there are few studies analyzing how COVID-19 has impacted the chiropractic profession. A recent paper, however, analyzed changes made to chiropractic practice by comparing the 7 different international regions represented by the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC). In overall healthcare, there is limited research on specialty-based stress levels both before and during COVID-19. Our survey was conducted to collect self-reported data on how COVID-19 has affected U.S. doctors of chiropractic. Methods : An electronic survey was sent to U.S. chiropractors nationwide via social media, email, and through Facebook groups. The survey collected personal and practice demographic information, practice protocols and changes made during COVID-19, chiropractic profession opinions/stances, information related to stress, and personal beliefs/opinions. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results : 750 U.S. chiropractors responded. Just over half of respondents reported moderate levels of stress, and just over 30% reported severe levels due to a variety of reasons related to both personal and professional circumstances. The primary stressors were financial and business concerns. The highest stress levels were among employers responsible for others. A majority reported beliefs that the chiropractic profession should not advertise that spinal manipulation provides any immune system benefit. 13% of the respondents did believe chiropractors should be marketing immune benefits during this time. A shift toward telehealth was reported, with 18% adding it to their services. Conclusion : Stress levels were high across the population. A range of opinions existed regarding spinal manipulation and immunity benefits. The majority reported there was not sufficient evidence to support such a belief; however, 13% of respondents believe that chiropractors should be marketing immune-enhancing benefits to the population. A logical next step would be to study why such beliefs persist. This information may be useful in better understanding how chiropractors have experienced the global effects of COVID-19 across the United States. Key Words : Chiropractic; COVID-19; Stress; Practice Characteristics; Immune System