The positioning of chiropractic care along the mind-body spectrum: A cross-sectional study of chiropractors' beliefs
Ledang, Helene and Newell, Dave (2026) The positioning of chiropractic care along the mind-body spectrum: A cross-sectional study of chiropractors' beliefs. Journal of Contemporary Chiropractic, 9. ISSN 2688-111X
|
Text
Newell D JCC Full article 2026.pdf - Published Version Available under License Creative Commons Attribution Non-commercial No Derivatives. Download (18MB) | Preview |
Abstract
Objective To examine chiropractors’ beliefs about the balance of mind- and body-based mechanisms underlying chiropractic care. Methods An online cross-sectional survey using a convenience sample was undertaken among chiropractors, chiropractic interns, and chiropractic educators, recruited through professional networks, university channels, and online chiropractic platforms. Participants answered a questionnaire evaluating their beliefs about mind-body mechanisms underpinning chiropractic care in relation to clinical conditions, treatment elements, and outcomes. Responses were measured on a 10-point scale from entirely body-based (1) to entirely mind-based (10) mechanisms. Descriptive statistics and subsequent inferential analyses were employed to identify differences across regions, professional roles, and years of practice. Results The final analysis included 643 participants from 6 continents. Overall, beliefs about chiropractic mechanisms centred around the midpoint of a body–mind continuum, reflecting a relatively balanced view. Participants associated acute musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions and hands-on treatments more with body-based mechanisms, while chronic pain, pain education, and contextual factors were more linked to mind-based explanations. Most participants identified their professional orientation as integrative. Notable differences emerged across regions, professional roles, and years of practice, where those in earlier careers tended to favour more mind-oriented models. Conclusion Chiropractors’ beliefs about the mechanisms underlying chiropractic care appear to reflect a combination of body- and mind-based perspectives rather than a purely structural explanatory model. The results indicate that modern chiropractic practice might be progressively combining neurophysiological and biopsychosocial approaches with traditional biomechanical models, which could affect chiropractic training, professional identity, and how patients are informed.
| Item Type: | Article |
|---|---|
| Schools: | AECC School of Chiropractic |
| Depositing User: | Bridget Roberts |
| Date Deposited: | 22 Oct 2026 13:59 |
| Last Modified: | 23 Oct 2026 07:56 |
| URI: | https://hsu.repository.guildhe.ac.uk/id/eprint/679 |
Actions (login required)
 |
Edit Item |