Chiropractic Care During COVID-19: Access Challenges, Telehealth, and Self-Management

How the Pandemic Affected Chiropractic Access

Many chiropractors reduced hours, temporarily closed, or faced staffing shortages, limiting access to care that many rely on for pain management. Simultaneously, pandemic-related stress, anxiety, reduced physical activity, and poor ergonomics from home workstations exacerbated musculoskeletal pain, increasing the need for treatment.

What You Can Do

• Contact your chiropractor: Confirm current hours, safety protocols, and whether they offer telehealth consultations.
• Explore telehealth options: Virtual visits can provide exercise instruction, ergonomic assessments, self-mobilization techniques, and progress monitoring from home.
• Implement self-care strategies:
  • Gentle daily stretching and mobility exercises
  • Heat or ice therapy for acute flare-ups
  • Over-the-counter analgesics (ibuprofen, acetaminophen) as directed
  • Optimize home workstation ergonomics (monitor height, chair support, frequent breaks)
  • Stress management: breathing exercises, mindfulness, regular walks

If pain is severe, progressive, or doesn't improve with home care, seek in-person evaluation promptly. Delaying care for red-flag symptoms (radiating pain, weakness, numbness, bowel/bladder changes) can lead to worse outcomes.