Self-care: An Australian case study of chiropractic patients

Self-care is becoming an important objective for achieving a sustainable health care system. This study examines the health care initiatives of chiropractic patients ascertaining their self-care behaviors, knowledge and information sources.

Convenience sampling of chiropractic patients attending 10 chiropractors in 3 states. Of 155 patients invited to participate, 147 agreed.

Patients were interviewed to determine their smoking, alcohol, maintenance chiropractic care, exercise and nutritional supplementation practices. Data collection included dose/frequency of the activity, expected benefits, concerns about side-effects and sources of information. Data was collated and trends identified.

Overall, the chiropractic patient sample reported a healthy lifestyle. Seventy-four percent (74%) had maintenance chiropractic; 69%, regular exercise; 40%, nutritional supplements; 84%, were non-smokers; and 86% were teetotallers or drank alcohol within safe limits. Few displayed appreciation of possible side-effects or 'dose-response' relationships. Lay persons were important information sources.

Chiropractic patients' self-care behaviors could be refined by making them more aware of the protean effects of self-care initiatives.