As 2024 ends, it’s an opportune moment to reflect on the significant strides made within the chiropractic community. Here are some highlights and trends that have shaped the chiropractic profession over the past 12 months.
One of the most significant trends in 2024 has been integrating advanced technology into chiropractic practice. From sophisticated diagnostic tools to innovative treatment modalities, technology has become an indispensable ally for chiropractors, keeping them at the forefront of the highest standard of care.
Two of the most significant technological advances in chiropractic came from the Chiropractic Future Strategic Plan. First, the Reimbursement Dashboard was created, launched, and made available to all state associations. The Kentucky Association of Chiropractors utilized this resource to receive over $1 million in previously denied payments, which were paid to their chiropractors. (Chiropractic Future Strategic Plan, 2023)
The second was the creation of the Data Lake, which Infinedi fully funded. The Data Lake is the first of its kind in the chiropractic profession, and it will pull de-identified information from EHR software to use in chiropractic research. Beta testing will start in late 2024 and early 2025. (Chiropractic Future Strategic Plan, 2024)
This year, several groundbreaking studies were published that shed light on the mechanisms behind spinal manipulation and its effects on the nervous system. These studies provided a deeper understanding of how chiropractic adjustments can alleviate pain, improve function, and enhance overall well-being. Moreover, research on the long-term benefits of chiropractic care strengthened the case for its inclusion in mainstream health care.
The telehealth revolution sparked by the COVID-19 pandemic led to chiropractors increasingly adopting virtual consultations. This shift expanded the reach of chiropractic care and highlighted the crucial role chiropractors play in providing health care to patients who might otherwise face barriers to access because of geographic or mobility constraints.
In 2024, Dr. Jay Greenstein of Kaizo Health launched EMBODI, an app for patients that allows chiropractors to monitor their patients’ adherence to care at home. This innovative technology is set to revolutionize the chiropractic industry by enabling remote therapeutic monitoring (RTM) services, a landmark moment in the history of chiropractic care.
EMBODI stands out as a comprehensive solution designed to enhance patient engagement and practice efficiency. It empowers DCs with tools for patient adherence through gamification, streamlined scheduling, HIPAA-compliant messaging, online review management, and effective communication via two-way texting and text campaigns.
Not only are EMBODI clinics seeing better patient outcomes, but they are also being paid for remotely monitoring the patient’s progress. Remote therapeutic monitoring has yet to be utilized or become reimbursable in chiropractic before this year. (EMBODI, 2024)
National and local chiropractic organizations launched extensive public education campaigns to inform communities about the role of chiropractic care in maintaining health and wellness. These campaigns utilized social media, public service announcements, and community events to reach a wider audience and dispel common misconceptions about chiropractic treatment.
This year saw a concerted effort to raise public awareness about the benefits of chiropractic care and advocate for its inclusion in broader healthcare systems. The Foundation for Chiropractic Progress has amped up its efforts since the launch of the Olympic commercial years ago. In 2024, they launched three new commercials targeted at golf, rodeo, and pickleball.
Chiropractors advocated for legislative changes that recognized the value of chiropractic care within the healthcare system. Their efforts were focused on securing insurance coverage for chiropractic services, promoting the inclusion of chiropractors in multidisciplinary healthcare teams, and addressing regulatory barriers that limit the scope of practice. These advocacy efforts resulted in several legislative victories that will benefit chiropractors and their patients.
Countless patients reported significant improvements in chronic pain conditions through chiropractic care. For instance, individuals suffering from conditions such as sciatica, migraines, and lower back pain found relief and regained their quality of life after undergoing chiropractic treatment. These success stories underscore the effectiveness of chiropractic care in managing pain and enhancing functional abilities.
One of the best stories highlighted in 2024 was an interview with Dr. Michelle Rose and several of her patients who are veterans who only found relief from chronic pain with chiropractic care. This story was featured in local news when the VA began denying chiropractic care for these patients. Because of their hard work and pressure from local Congresswoman Jen Kiggans, the VA started to review their denial practices to help veterans get the care they need. (3WTKR, 2024)
Qualified chiropractors were embedded with many Olympic teams, focusing on preventive care, injury management, and performance enhancement. They worked alongside physical therapists, nutritionists, and physicians to provide a holistic approach to athletes’ well-being. This integration ensures athletes are in top condition and ready to compete at their highest level. Additionally, every NFL team, most MLB teams, and NHL teams across the country have a team chiropractor. Chiropractic care is an essential part of professional sports, addressing preventative and recovery needs. (Converse Chiropractic, 2024)
As we look forward to 2025, the future of chiropractic care appears bright. Building on the successes of 2024, the profession is poised for continued growth and innovation.
Ongoing research will remain a top priority, emphasizing the clarification of the mechanisms of action of chiropractic treatments and exploring new applications. Collaborative studies with other healthcare disciplines will help solidify chiropractic care’s place within the broader medical community.
Integrating digital health solutions, such as telehealth platforms and mobile health apps, will continue to enhance patient care and engagement. These technologies will facilitate more efficient communication between chiropractors and patients, streamline administrative processes, and improve access to care.
Advocacy efforts will persist, focusing on achieving policy changes that support the chiropractic profession and improve patient access to care. By engaging with policymakers and healthcare stakeholders, chiropractors can continue to influence the development of healthcare policies that recognize the value of their services.
In conclusion, 2024 was a year of remarkable progress and innovation for the chiropractic profession. From embracing technological advancements to fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, chiropractors have made significant strides in enhancing patient care and promoting holistic health.
As we move into 2025, the profession is well-positioned to continue its growth trajectory, providing even more significant benefits to patients and communities worldwide. By staying committed to research, education, and advocacy, chiropractors will remain at the forefront of health care, championing natural, patient-centered care principles.
Kristi Hudson is a certified professional compliance officer (CPCO) and is vice president of business relationships at ChiroHealthUSA. For 15 years, she has educated chiropractors (DCs) and chiropractic assistants (CAs) on establishing straightforward and compliant financial policies.
Beyond her responsibilities at ChiroHealthUSA, Kristi serves as the vice chair of the Chiropractic Future Strategic Plan, contributing her expertise to shape the future of the chiropractic profession. She also serves as a dedicated board member for ChiroCongress Cares, demonstrating her commitment to the chiropractic community’s well-being.
