The chiropractic industry is constantly changing and evolving. To stay ahead of the curve, it’s essential to know what trends to expect in 2024. This blog post will discuss seven of the most critical chiropractic industry trends for the upcoming year. Keep reading to learn more!
1) Medical Marijuana
Medical marijuana is becoming legalized in more and more states across the country. Because of this, it’s expected that chiropractors will begin to prescribe medical marijuana for their patients alongside standard medications. This trend is particularly prevalent among Baby Boomers, who are most likely affected by pain relief medication addiction because of their age. As a result, chiropractors are working to offer alternative medications that allow for pain relief without the drawbacks of prescription drugs.
In recent years, the endocannabinoid system has become an increasingly important aspect of medical research. This is the system responsible for maintaining homeostasis within the body. Because the endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in almost every primary bodily function, it is becoming one of the most important aspects of chiropractic care. Chiropractors are learning about this system to understand better how they can help their patients maintain homeostasis.
2) Patient Tech Trends
Microsoft’s new product, Kinect, is now commonly used by chiropractors nationwide to better communicate with their patients. The technology, developed for use in Xbox 360 gaming consoles, can now be found in many chiropractic offices across the United States.
This device is especially beneficial because it allows Chiropractors to obtain information about their patients without asking them for it. Instead, Kinect uses body language to determine how patients feel about their care. As a result, chiropractors that use this device often see increased patient satisfaction.
Smart wearables also seem to be increasing in popularity within the chiropractic industry. So far, smart wearables have been used primarily for patient education, but more and more chiropractors are expected to begin using these types of devices in the coming years.
3) Virtual Visits
One growing trend among chiropractors is the use of virtual visits. The concept involves chiropractors using webcam technology to communicate with their patients without seeing them in person. This is particularly beneficial for many individuals who cannot travel due to age or physical limitations. Still, it can also be helpful for those looking for an alternative to standard chiropractic care.
Statistics show that most people would prefer to visit their chiropractors in person, but virtual visits are growing in popularity. Many patients find visiting their chiropractor without needing to leave home reduces stress and offers a more personal experience.
Also, because chiropractors can use virtual visits to understand their patients better, these interactions are especially beneficial for children. Parents are often more willing to have their children visit the chiropractor if they don’t need to leave home.
4) Personalized Care Plans
In the past, most chiropractors only offered patients one or two courses of care. Then, if patients did not get better after seeing their chiropractor for a few visits, they were told nothing more could be done.
However, in recent years this approach has changed. Chiropractors are now offering personalized care plans designed to meet the needs of each patient. Personalized care plans often involve visiting the chiropractor a few times a month for a certain period. This allows the chiropractor to determine what is causing the patient’s condition and how best to address it.
It is estimated that the traditional chiropractic focus on back pain will be abandoned by as many as 60 percent of chiropractors by 2024. Instead, their attention will turn to more cutting-edge and holistic methods.
5) Digital Marketing
Lastly, chiropractors are using the internet to reach a wider audience. Many chiropractors have already discovered how powerful online marketing can be. One study found that nearly half of all patients now learn about their local chiropractor online!
In 2024, chiropractors are expected to continue embracing digital marketing to attract new patients. Many chiropractors use social media, online ads, patient testimonials, and educational resources to generate business.
Studies on social media marketing in this industry have been promising so far. For example, a study found that chiropractors with a strong internet presence can generate more new patients from their online marketing efforts than those with little or no online presence.
What makes digital marketing particularly useful for chiropractors is that it allows them to keep their costs down while also reaching a wider audience. This makes it easier to attract new patients without spending too much money on advertising.
6) Marketing beyond just the neck and back
While many chiropractors are still focusing on neck and back pain, some chiropractors expand their focus to other health conditions. Chiropractic methods can be used to treat everything from digestive problems to insomnia, which means more patients may turn to the services of a chiropractor in 2024 than ever before.
Modern chiropractic practices are moving away from the traditional focus on back pain. One study found that more than 45 percent of chiropractors change their treatment methods to suit patients’ needs.
7) Cloud-based recording systems
In the past, chiropractors relied on paper charts and patient files to keep records. However, most chiropractors now use cloud-based recording systems to have all their patient’s information in one place.
Many chiropractors are implementing HIPAA compliance measures, making it easier to share patient records with other doctors and health care providers.
The use of cloud-based systems is expected to increase in the coming years. In fact, according to a survey published in March 2021, most chiropractors plan on switching to a cloud-based platform within the next few months.
In conclusion, chiropractors have been moving away from focusing on back pain in recent years. In 2024, more chiropractors are expected to focus on a broader range of issues and ailments instead.
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