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June 17, 2025 35 mins

Learn more: https://www.theinformedchiropractor.com/

 

Summary: 

In this episode of The ChiroCandy podcast, host Billy Sticker sits down with Dr. Don MacDonald as he shares his journey into chiropractic care, influenced by his experiences as a basketball player and his struggles with chronic knee issues. He discusses the significance of Polyvagal Theory in understanding the nervous system and its implications for chiropractic practice. Dr. MacDonald emphasizes the importance of effective communication in chiropractic care, especially in connecting with patients in a meaningful way. He also highlights the evolution of coaching and consulting within the chiropractic field, particularly in response to the challenges posed by the pandemic. The conversation concludes with insights on how to amplify chiropractic care to better serve patients in a post-pandemic world. In this conversation, Dr. Don MacDonald discusses the importance of connection and co-regulation in chiropractic care, emphasizing the role of polyvagal theory in enhancing patient experiences. He shares insights on building a practice, future aspirations in chiropractic, and the significance of creativity and mindset in adjusting techniques. The discussion highlights the need for chiropractors to create safe spaces for patients and to honor their feelings while integrating objective testing into their practice.

 

Takeaways:

  • Polyvagal Theory provides insights into the nervous system's role in chiropractic care.
  • Chiropractors need to adapt their approaches to meet the needs of modern patients.
  • The pandemic has changed how chiropractors engage with their patients.
  • Understanding the vagus nerve is essential for chiropractors.
  • Safety cues in the nervous system are vital for patient healing.
  • Chiropractors can amplify their care by being aware of their patients' physiological states.
  • Coaching and consulting in chiropractic have evolved to focus on mindset changes.
  • Patients often become more social and engaged after receiving chiropractic care.
  • Chiropractors enjoy practice more when they have more skills.
  • Connection with patients goes beyond just technique.
  • Polyvagal theory can enhance chiropractic practice.
  • Co-regulation is essential for patient safety and comfort.
  • Building relationships is key to growing a practice.
  • Future aspirations can include teaching and mentoring.
  • Chiropractors should strive for continuous improvement.
  • Mindset and creativity are crucial in chiropractic adjusting.
  • Integrating feelings with objective testing enhances care.

 

Case Study #1: https://go.chirocandy.com/case-study

Case Study #2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=po2nWAaKcho

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