PRACTICE AND MANAGEMENT OF THE BRAZILIAN CHIROPRACTOR IN THE CARE OF THE ELDERLY

Abstract

The chiropractic profession represents one of the main interventions in global healthcare and has been recognized for its fundamental role in reducing the risk of falls and managing pain in elderly populations. The overall objective of this study was to identify the practices and management of Brazilian chiropractors in elderly care. A cross-sectional study was chosen, involving interaction with the sample through an online questionnaire, which was sent via emails, social media groups, through the Brazilian Chiropractic Association (ABQ), and direct contact of the researcher with chiropractic professionals. A total of 155 responses were collected, equivalent to 22% of the estimated total number of Brazilian chiropractors according to ABQ records. All chiropractors were trained and active within Brazilian territory and volunteered to respond to an objective questionnaire, composed of 20 questions, prepared by the academic researcher. It was observed that Brazilian chiropractors mostly have a clinical management similar to internationally recommended practices. Regarding the techniques applied, professionals resemble those in countries like Canada and the USA, where professionals have the capability and technical qualification to determine the best treatment for elderly patients. In terms of the number of professionals working in multidisciplinary clinics, the profession did not follow international trends that suggest such relationships among professionals, with most Brazilian chiropractors working in solo clinics or with other chiropractic professionals. This may justify the low number of professionals discussing elderly patient cases with responsible physicians. Based on the collected information, at least part of Brazilian chiropractors have clinical management close to the ideal. Future studies should be more comprehensive, and some points should be better explored for a greater understanding of the practice and clinical management in elderly care. The main limitation of the study was the number of professionals who collaborated by responding to the questionnaire, which led to a low response percentage relative to the total number of Brazilian chiropractors, making it difficult to assert that the sample truly represents the national profile of elderly care management