In a commentary published in Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, two American researchers from Palmer College of Chiropractic, Kira J. Baca and Stacie A. Salsbury, emphasize the importance of chiropractors understanding and implementing trauma-informed care in their practice. They highlight the widespread occurrence of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) among patients and their long-term health consequences.
High Prevalence of Childhood Trauma
According to studies, 64% of the U.S. population has experienced at least one form of ACE, and over one billion children worldwide are subjected to abuse or neglect each year. These childhood traumas can increase the risk of mental health disorders, chronic pain, and lifestyle-related diseases such as diabetes and heart disease, the researchers note.
The Need for Trauma-Informed Care
Trauma-informed care is an approach already used in several healthcare professions and is recommended for treating patients with a history of trauma. Chiropractors are encouraged to implement trauma-informed care by:
- Creating safe and understanding treatment environments
- Understanding patients' potential reactions to physical touch
- Integrating patient-centered communication to minimize stress
- Being aware of the need for referrals to other healthcare professionals
A New Model: The Four R’s
In their commentary, Baca and Salsbury present the 4R model as an approach to trauma-informed care:
- Realize – Understand that trauma is widespread and can have long-term health consequences.
- Recognize – Identify signs of trauma and potential triggers.
- Respond – Implement strategies to minimize stress and improve the treatment experience.
- Resist Re-Traumatization – Avoid reactivating trauma through treatment methods or communication.
The Future Role of Chiropractors
Baca and Salsbury stress that chiropractors, who often see patients over extended periods, can play a crucial role in identifying and addressing trauma. They call for additional education in trauma-informed care and ACE screening, enabling chiropractors to better understand and support their patients.
According to the researchers, this study marks an important development in chiropractic care, where a more holistic approach can enhance patients' treatment experiences and long-term health outcomes.
Read the research paper here