Exploring Chiropractic Healthcare in Hong Kong: Sick Leave Certification Dilemma.

Objective This study aims to investigate the characteristics of chiropractic patients in Hong Kong, their experiences with chiropractic care, and their perspectives on chiropractors' authority over sick leave certificates. Method A cross-sectional survey was conducted among individuals receiving chiropractic treatment in Hong Kong. Data were collected through an online survey from May 11 to August 8, 2023, and descriptive analysis was employed to examine patient demographics, treatment effectiveness, and views on chiropractic sick leave authorization. A total of 522 valid responses were received. Result Among respondents, back pain was the primary reason for seeking chiropractic care, with many experiencing rapid relief and high satisfaction. However, many patients initially consulted other healthcare professionals, indicating potential integration challenges. Lengthy orthopedic wait times in Hong Kong highlight the need for chiropractic care. Concerns arose over chiropractors' inability to issue sick leave certificates, impacting patient convenience, treatment effectiveness, finances, and emotional well-being. Allowing chiropractors to authorize sick leave, with proper regulation, could address these issues. Conclusion In conclusion, this study underscores chiropractic care's potential in Hong Kong's healthcare system and suggests that recognizing chiropractors' role in sick leave authorization can enhance comprehensive patient care.

Remission of Dowager's hump by manipulative correction of spinal alignment: a case report.

Dowager's hump is described as excessive kyphotic curvature in the thoracic spine with a Cobb angle of more than 40 degrees. This case report presents a 61 years old female office clerk who experienced headaches and neck pain for 3 years that extended into her right shoulder and upper chest. She consulted her primary care physician two months before seeing the chiropractor when the neck pain worsened. A diagnosis of cervicalgia related to osteoarthritis was made based on cervical and thoracic X-ray findings. The patient received non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (celecoxib and etoricoxib) and stretching exercises at home. At the onset of chiropractic care, radiographs showed loss of cervical lordosis, narrowing at the C4-5, C5-C6, and C6-7 intervertebral disc space with marginal osteophytes. Based on these findings, a working diagnosis of cervicogenic headache was established. After treatment for 9 months, the patient showed improvement in symptoms and function from cervical curve radiographic change and dextro-convexity of the thoracic spine. Avoiding forward head flexion and maintaining correct posture in daily activities will be key mechanisms to prevent the reoccurrence of Dowager's hump. The improvement of symptoms following chiropractic therapy has been shown to correlate with radiographic markers of spinal realignment.

Understanding the Utilization, Challenges, and Attitudes Towards Laboratory Testing and Radiological Imaging Among Chiropractors in Hong Kong: A Cross-Sectional Survey.

Objective This cross-sectional survey aimed to investigate the utilization, challenges, and attitudes of chiropractors in Hong Kong towards laboratory testing and radiological imaging. Method An online survey was conducted between May 1, 2023, and June 1, 2023. The target population for the survey was registered chiropractors in Hong Kong, which has a total of 325 practitioners. A total of 151 chiropractors participated in the survey, resulting in a response rate of 46.5%. The respondents provided information on their demographics, years of experience, practice settings, awareness of their right to request diagnostic tests, utilization of laboratory testing and imaging, and attitudes towards evidence-based practice. The survey data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Result The survey findings revealed that a significant proportion of chiropractors in Hong Kong utilized laboratory testing and radiological imaging in their practice. Most respondents reported using laboratory testing to diagnose medical conditions and monitor existing conditions. Imaging is commonly used for diagnosing medical conditions and monitoring disease progression. However, a notable proportion of chiropractors reported facing rejection of their tests and imaging requests, which limited their ability to provide optimal care to their patients. The identified challenges included high rejection rates for specific imaging requests, leading to patient frustration, increased costs, and delayed diagnosis. Nevertheless, chiropractors in Hong Kong showed a strong belief in evidence-based practice and demonstrated a willingness to search for literature and incorporate it into their daily practice. By addressing this issue, our aim was to gain valuable insights into the status of laboratory testing and radiological imaging among chiropractors in Hong Kong. The findings of this study underscore the necessity for collaborative efforts among chiropractors, healthcare professionals, healthcare facilities, policymakers, and insurance companies to effectively address the challenges identified and improve patient care outcomes. Specifically, enhancing access to diagnostic tests and working towards reducing rejection rates will play a pivotal role in supporting chiropractors' role as primary healthcare providers in Hong Kong.

Temporomandibular Disorder Treated With Chiropractic Therapy.

Temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) are common and affect the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and surrounding musculoskeletal tissues. Although traditional rehabilitative treatments such as physiotherapy, occlusal splints, orthodontics, and electrotherapy effectively manage TMDs, chiropractic therapy is emerging as a promising non-invasive treatment option. We report a 39-year-old female patient with TMD who underwent chiropractic therapy, including spinal adjustments, soft tissue therapy, and exercise rehabilitation. After four weeks of treatment, the patient reported a complete resolution of symptoms and an improved quality of life score. Thereafter, the patient continued chiropractic treatment monthly for six months, during which she reported no symptoms and demonstrated improvements in her spinal range of motion, open-mouth anatomy, and cervical lordosis. This case study highlights the efficacy of applying an interdisciplinary approach to treating TMD and the potential of chiropractic therapy as a valuable treatment option for managing TMD.