The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #63659

John K. Hyland, DC, MPH, School of Public Health and Community Medicine, University of Washington, PO Box 350700, Westminster, CO 80035-0700, 303-465-9158, jhyland@u.washington.edu

Objective: To investigate and model factors that mediate exercise promotion by doctors of chiropractic. Methods: Systems analysis procedures were employed in an effort to better understand the various influences on behavior change counseling by providers of chiropractic care. Results: A reinforcing loop model best describes the interaction of chronic disease with physical inactivity in our society. Several unintended consequences are identified that have resulted from the usual medical care model of most chronic diseases. The influence of counseling by health care providers can help to balance the loop and counteract the model’s tendencies. There are many barriers and few enablers for patient education and promotion of physical activity by doctors of chiropractic. Conclusions: Physical inactivity is a major contributing factor in most chronic diseases, with growing consequences leading into a downward spiral. To change this trend, behavior counseling will be required of all health care providers. Exercise promotion by doctors of chiropractic can be modeled using systems analysis methods, thereby aiding in the understanding of mediating factors. While this study specifically addressed provider counseling of patients regarding physical activity and exercise, similar models can be developed for influencing other health behaviors that must be addressed to support individual and community wellness.

Learning Objectives:

Attendees at this session will be able to:
• Construct a systems loop that describes the interaction of physical activity and chronic disease.
• Describe the unintended consequences of current care practices.
• List 5 barriers and 3 enablers of exercise promotion by doctors of chiropractic.

Keywords: Chiropractic, Wellness

Related Web page: none

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: none
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.