This clarity of purpose allows the DC to enhance the patients' understanding of contemporary chiropractic, increasing their compliance, improving outcomes, and promoting referrals. It is essential that patients appreciate not only the goals of care but also the time needed to achieve them. A clear explanation of chiropractic goals lets patients know that we offer a very reasonable, natural, effective and functional alternative to a medical system that has become overwhelmingly drug based and symptom oriented. This conclusion is not confined exclusively to chiropractic, but is also being emphasized by physiatrist and sports medicine specialists. Improving patient function must be the credo of care.
Stressors constantly challenge the integrity and stability of the system.
Once the neuromusculoskeletal system has sustained a significant injury, it is crucial that the care provided not only achieves pain relief and tissue healing, but also that it helps restore good function for the NMS to regain and maintain the strength, endurance and flexibility necessary to tolerate the repetitive tasks of everyday living. The traditional medical approach makes a reasonable assumption, which we now know is incorrect. When tissues have healed, pain should be gone and function restored. Tissue healing should signify the end of medically necessary care. Though this assumption seems reasonable, there is substantial evidence to suggest that the relationship between tissue healing, pain relief and restoration of function is considerably more complex.