 |
|
| Category: CAM Therapies |
Date published: November 20, 2008 |
Acupuncture and Chiropractic: A Harmonious Partnership
by CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd
 Interview with Post Columnist, Dr. Mark Kestner
Why the draw to CAM?
It's easy to see why there's been such a natural migration toward CAM (complementary and alternative medicine) therapies like acupuncture and chiropractic. These types of mind-body medicines are presumably growing in acceptance because they are not as invasive as some conventional medical treatments; and often provide relief from common health conditions and disorders. In fact, the National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) reports that 62 percent of adults in the United States use some form of CAM (including those who use megavitamin therapy and prayer). In America, eight million adults have turned to acupuncture for help and healing; and chiropractic treatments have been facilitated by 20 percent of U.S. adults.
Chiropractic
Chiropractic is a holistic system of healthcare that treats patients with gentle spinal adjustments, nutritional and lifestyle counseling, bodywork therapies, and other natural health specializations. Today, there are numerous healthcare practitioners in the fields of both conventional medicine and CAM, but one man found his niche in the practice of this relatively young holistic medicine. "I was initially interested in conventional medicine as a career," says Dr. Mark Kestner. However, as he explored the profession of chiropractic, he became intrigued by positive patient feedback. After interviewing several chiropractors, Kestner had the unique opportunity and permission to speak candidly with patients regarding their experiences, "I found that there was a very high level of patient satisfaction," Kestner added, "the more I learned about it, the more interested I became in pursuing chiropractic as a career." Smartly, Kestner continued his career exploration by consulting with conventional medicine practitioners (i.e., dentists, physicians, and other health care providers), but found that the enthusiasm was much higher for those working in the field of chiropractic, "Most chiropractors that I know love their work!"
Chiropractic Tidbit
Like conventional medicine, chiropractors must successfully complete a rigorous educational program from an accredited college or school. Because all States regulate this field of chiropractic, students are required to fulfill over 4,000 training hours including the philosophies and applications of this discipline; in addition to prerequisite training in anatomy, biochemistry, microbiology, nutrition, pathology, and more.
With the health insurance industry expanding coverage for chiropractic care, patients have more options for CAM therapies. This is one of the reasons why some individuals may have more desire to seek chiropractic treatments for healthcare maintenance.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is both Oriental medicine and energy healing in nature; but as a unique healthcare system, it combines the delicate use of thin, hair-like needles with natural healing therapies like Chinese herbal medicine, moxibustion, cupping, and nutritional recommendations (among other related specialties).
Because Kestner was already practicing chiropractic, he introduced himself to acupuncture. "I found that acupuncture and chiropractic are very complementary approaches," Kestner said, "Once, while traveling I even utilized acupuncture as a patient to help me recover from an injury. I was amazed by the results." Though his search for a local acupuncturist turned no results, he sought training to become certified in this ancient healing art because he wanted to offer this service to his patients as well. After completion of his training a decade ago, he continues to fine-tune his skills through continuing education courses.
When asked if there was any particular medicine he preferred, Kestner responded, "I don't choose to incorporate every single thing that I learn into my practice, but I find that being more broad-based helps me attain more positive treatment results."
Education
Kestner's commendable background includes professional training at Logan College of Chiropractic, in addition to acupuncture training "under several very accomplished and well respected acupuncture teachers." Dr. Kestner raved about Logan College of Chiropractic, "(Logan) is a very progressive college for chiropractors that want to obtain a solid, diverse education." Because of his broad educational and occupational foundation, it was not necessary for Kestner to attend a typical acupuncture college, "The courses offered to chiropractic doctors meet or exceed the WHO guidelines and are probably the most expansive programs available for professionals."
In His Own Words
A Cut above the Rest
Kestner: "I have found that most professionals in healthcare, whether in conventional medicine or alternative fields, are typically very caring, highly motivated and often extremely well qualified individuals. Let's face it; there are easier ways to make a living than healthcare that don't require the years of training and sacrifice. It takes a heart of a servant to put forth the effort to be qualified to help others to heal, no matter in which field you are interested."
Kestner explained that the unfortunate aspect of conventional medicine is that its current healthcare model is "driven almost entirely by the pharmaceutical industry." Furthermore, he stated, "(They) have to contend with and appease patients that nearly always expect a prescription when they see a medical physician.
Conversely, although chiropractic doctors and acupuncturists also address immediate needs such as acute injury and illness, a great deal more effort is directed toward trying to help the patient actually resolve the problems that are causing the immediate symptoms or help them to become more healthy. Chiropractic care is directed primarily toward musculoskeletal function, especially as it relates to the spine. This in turn often addresses neurological function which often results in improved organic function.
Acupuncture works through stimulating the body's neurological system and subtle electrical energetic systems to help resolve imbalances that may be affecting any number of the body's systems. Although the exact way that acupuncture works is not clearly understood and probably won't be for decades, it is clear that it can affect the body in ways to improve many varied conditions."
Relative Differences
Like other accomplished CAM doctors, Kestner has to carefully weigh his approaches in treating patients. Taking into consideration a number of criteria, including patient preference (for acupuncture or chiropractic), Kestner often treats his patients with either acupuncture or chiropractic care, "but not at the same time," he added.
Kestner attributes the shift in public awareness and acceptance of CAM treatments to a number of factors including rise in cost of conventional medical visits, cost effectiveness and expanded insurance coverage of CAM therapies, and unwanted drug side effects/interactions. "(Patients) want more hands-on, interactive care with fewer drugs. Healthcare consumers are most interested in natural approaches to maintaining health and increasing vitality. Chiropractic, acupuncture, massage, homeopathy and other approaches offer these benefits."
Advice to the Prospective Candidate
"Don't be naive," says Kestner. It's important to realize "that it takes much more than an education and a license to be a successful practitioner." It's also important to be a motivated entrepreneur with business-savvy to become successful. Kestner recommends that students interview successful practitioners to determine which field they want to pursue, "Ask them real questions about their day-to-day activities, how hard is it to run a business, how much income is left over after paying all of the overhead, what was surprising to them when they entered the "real world" compared to what they expected...things like that." Exploring all health-related fields is equally important, explains Kestner, "You may find that you have a greater interest in a different field than the one you are most focused on right now."
CAM Perks
What Kestner has found to be the most rewarding aspect of his career: "Seeing people respond to care, especially when they have suffered for a long while, or tried many conventional approaches without success. That is the ya-ya that gets me to the office in the morning! Like I mentioned, there are many other things that I could be doing to earn a living, but none that would bring me the amount of pleasure I get everyday from witnessing healing and knowing that I have played a part in helping a patient recover their precious health!"
If you (or someone you know) are interested in learning more about CAM therapies, let professional training within fast-growing industries like massage therapy, naturopathy, acupuncture, Oriental medicine, Reiki, and others get you started! Explore Acupuncture and Chiropractic Programs near you.
Dr. Mark Kestner serves as the Team Chiropractor for the local NCAA University and the Rotary Club. He has also served on the Board of Directors for his State Association, and is a recipient of several fine awards. He currently practices chiropractic and acupuncture, and is a columnist for the local newspaper.
Sources:
NCCAM
HolisticJunction.com
Acupuncture and Chiropractic: A Harmonious Partnership
©Copyright 2008
Media Positive Communications, Inc.
All Rights Reserved
Resource Box: CarolAnn Bailey-Lloyd - Former staff writer for HolisticJunction.com, Educational Resources for Healing Arts Schools, Acupuncture Schools, and other Alternative Medicine Schools.
NOTICE: Article(s) may be republished free of charge to relevant websites, as long as Copyright and Author Resource Box are included; and ALL Hyperlinks REMAIN intact and active.
|
[All work by author is copyright protected. If you would like to use this article, please contact the author for permission.]
Disclaimer: The Views and Information expressed on this webpage are that of the Author and do not necessarily reflect the views, data, policies, endorsement or support of HolisticJunction.com's Administration or its standards.
|
|
|
Articles
