Chiropractors are called upon to manage patients complaining of pain. Although in chiropractic practice the emphasis is the patient rather than the condition, formal chiropractic assessment focuses largely upon bio-mechanical evaluation. As there is increasing evidence that psychological stress has physical repercussions, and chronic pain cannot be adequately understood using objective measures, it is possible that routine psychological screening may enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of chiropractic care. This study explores the usefulness of a screening questionnaire as an aide to assessing patient distress, enhancing patient awareness of the impact of psychosocial stressors on their wellbeing, and as a guide to referral for counselling.

Grant Value: $15,827
Chief Investigator: Dr Jennifer Jamison – RMIT
Status: Complete

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