It seems that much of the frustration and disenchantment within the straight chiropractic movement lies in the image it has portrayed. Largely, it has been negative. To a great extent it can be understood. It is quite difficult to keep a positive image when you are fighting desperately for survival. Perhaps now that survival appears to be assured, it is time to present a new, more positive image of straight chiropractic.v5n6
It seems one of the major problems is that we have presented ourselves as limited scope practitioners. The so-called broadscope practitioner (mixer), the one who appears to do more, is looked at in an unfavorable light by the straight chiropractor, and yet held in esteem by the general public. Most people believe that more is better. Our philosophy teaches us that this is not necessarily so, however, the public does not readily understand this concept. They say “Is that all you do? The chiropractor on the other side of town does much more. He uses this machine and that device in addition to the adjustment.” (All the while, assuming that more is better.) Our recourse is usually to condemn these procedures, thus, continuing the conflict. Perhaps we need to make a 180 degree turn. Instead of talking about our limited scope of practice and the so called mixer’s broadscope approach it is time we turn it around. Are we not, after all, the ones with a broad vision? We view chiropractic as something necessary for every man, woman, and child no matter what their age or state of health. With this understanding (broad vision) we narrow our activity to adjusting subluxations exclusively. Unfortunately, what we generally convey to the public is information about what we do rather than what we think. Consequently, we are viewed as limited practitioners rather than visionaries.
The mixer who adds procedure after procedure affects less people but has a more widespread appeal. The majority are taking care of only musculoskeletal problems, primarily low back. Contrary to popular belief, they do not have broad vision. For the most part they view chiropractic as a limited treatment for a limited number of musculoskeletal conditions and must rely upon their ability to determine what musculoskeletal conditions they can effectively treat.
So the next time a patient asks you what the difference between a mixer and a straight is, rather than talking about machines, techniques, procedures and practice, talk about vision. Try explaining, objectively, that the mixer has a more limited idea of chiropractic…that he feels it is primarily effective for musculoskeletal problems, therefore he incorporates various procedures that he believes may help their problems. You, on the other hand, see that chiropractic is for the entire human race, because you understand that everyone needs a good nerve supply for maximum health. Consequently, you do not choose to limit your time and expend your energy in treating musculoskeletal conditions.
Try it. You may like the more positive feeling it gives you. It will surely make you less condemning or judgmental of your mixer colleague and, most importantly, you will be taking an opportunity to explain to a person what the true benefit and scope of chiropractic is. That alone will make the effort worthwhile.
