Patients with cancer: Is there a role for chiropractic?

Maria Tsampika Laoudikou, Peter William McCarthy

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

People who have a diagnosis of cancer may develop, or already have musculoskeletal conditions, just like any other person. However, discussion about potential benefits of chiropractic treatment to this group has generally been avoided related to the fear of misrepresentation. We aimed to derive a consensus from a group of experienced chiropractors regarding their perception of what chiropractic care offered to patients with cancer. An anonymous, two stage, online, Delphi process was performed using experienced chiropractors (n=23: >10 yrs practice experience, who had treated patients with cancer) purposively selected and recruited independently. One opted out of the study, 13 actively engaged in two rounds of questions and verification; agreeing such patients gained benefit from chiropractic care but use of spinal manipulation was not essential. There was no clear consensus regarding a protocol for interaction within any multidisciplinary team treating the patient. Concerns were raised about misinterpretation of advertising any benefits for cancer patients from chiropractic care. Lack of evidence in this area was acknowledged.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)32-42
Number of pages11
JournalThe Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association
Volume64
Issue number1
Publication statusPublished - 1 Apr 2020

Keywords

  • Cancer
  • Chiropractic
  • Delphi
  • Evidence based care
  • Integrated care
  • Manual therapy
  • Multidisciplinary practice
  • Patient management
  • Spinal manipulation

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