The study shows that patients’ hopes and expectations are not static but change significantly before and after the consultation. This knowledge is crucial for chiropractors who aim to deliver person-centered care and enhance patient satisfaction.
Why Is This Important?
Patients’ expectations of their interaction with a healthcare provider influence both their experience and treatment outcomes. Positive expectations are documented as a factor that can improve results in both chiropractic and physiotherapy care. However, the study highlights that hopes and expectations are distinct concepts:
- Hope refers to what the patient wishes for.
- Expectation refers to what the patient believes will happen.
To create realistic goals and avoid disappointment, it is essential to understand and address both.
Why Is This Relevant Now?
Low back pain is one of the most common reasons for consulting chiropractors. The key to delivering holistic care lies in understanding patients’ psychological and social needs, not just their physical symptoms. This research emphasizes that chiropractors are not only treatment providers but also communicators and partners in the patient’s health journey.
What Does the Study Show?
Researchers interviewed 18 patients before and after consultations with general practitioners, physiotherapists, and chiropractors. The findings were organized into two main themes:
Before the Consultation – “Something Must Be Done”
- Patients focused on eliminating pain and returning to normal daily life.
- They perceived low back pain as disabling and sought quick action.
- Many hoped for a clear diagnosis and expected a thorough examination.
- Chiropractors were often seen as experts who could “fix the problem,” especially through manual treatment.
After the Consultation – “The Relationship Matters Most”
- Patients’ focus shifted from action to relationship.
- They valued being taken seriously, listened to, and met with empathy.
- Trust developed through thorough examinations and acknowledgment of their situation.
- Chiropractors’ personal qualities – kindness, humour, clear communication – became crucial to the experience.
Practical Implications for Chiropractors
The study points to several areas where chiropractors can strengthen their practice:
- Align Expectations Early
Ask about patients’ hopes and expectations from the start. This creates realistic goals and prevents misunderstandings. - Focus on Relationship and Communication
Thoroughness in examination and an empathetic approach are as important as technical treatment. - Provide Information and Self-Care Guidance
Help patients understand prognosis and the importance of self-management. This increases empowerment and reduces dependency on treatment. - Balance Manual Treatment and Dialogue
While many patients expect “hands-on” care, it is important to combine this with knowledge and guidance to support modern evidence-based practice.
The study forms the basis for a new European continuing education module at http://www.eacacademy.com
Simon Dyrløv Madsen, Mette Jensen Stochkendahl, Lars Morsø, Merethe Kirstine Andersen, Elisabeth Assing Hvidt. Patient perspectives on low back pain treatment in primary care: a qualitative study of hopes, expectations, and experiences. BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders 2024.
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