As you know, our nervous system adapts and reorganizes itself over time… it’s constantly learning! This journey requires patience, understanding, time, and guidance through carefully crafted care plans to help your patient navigate effectively and see their progress.
But what do we do if our patient’s neurological progress scan gets ‘worse’ before it gets better?
When faced with unexpected results, it’s crucial to remember that the nervous system is incredibly complex and dynamic! It doesn’t operate on a linear path of improvement. Instead, it undergoes a process of reorganization that is both necessary and beneficial for long-term wellness and optimal performance. This process can be likened to what I like to call the “cluttered closet analogy”.
The Cluttered Closet Analogy
We all have a linen closet that seems to work. But we also know that if we were to take the time to reorganize it, it could become a lot more efficient.
Here are the 4 stages of the cluttered closet re-organization process:
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Phase 1: Recognition – Just like recognizing a cluttered closet in your home, the first step is acknowledging that the nervous system is cluttered with dysfunctions and compensations.
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Phase 2: Unpacking – To organize a closet, you must first take everything out. Similarly, the nervous system begins to “unpack” these dysfunctions, which can temporarily reflect as lower scores on scans.
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Phase 3: Reorganization – With everything out in the open, you can then begin to put things back in a more organized manner. The nervous system, too, starts to reorganize itself, laying the groundwork for improved function and health.
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Phase 4: Improvement – Just as a newly organized closet functions better, the nervous system, once reorganized, operates more efficiently, leading to improved scores and overall well-being.
Understanding and embracing this process is crucial for both chiropractors and patients. It’s a reminder that sometimes, things might seem to get worse before they get better. A lower score on a second scan doesn’t necessarily indicate a setback, it is a sign that the nervous system is actively working through its “unpacking” phase. This is a critical step towards achieving a more organized and efficient state.
Communicating with Patients
Our role as chiropractors extends beyond adjustments and scans… we are also educators and guides for our patients on their journey to better performance! When discussing scan results, especially those that might seem discouraging, it’s important to:
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Use analogies like the cluttered closet to simplify complex processes.
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Reassure patients that temporary dips in scores are part of the healing process.
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Encourage patience and persistence, emphasizing the long-term benefits of chiropractic care.
Remember, the reorganization process is a testament to the body’s incredible ability to heal and improve itself. By embracing this process and communicating effectively with our patients, we can support them through their ups and downs, leading them towards better health and well-being.
Patience and Persistence: Keys to Navigating Change
It’s crucial to remind ourselves and our patients that this phase is temporary and a positive sign of progress. Here are a few tips to navigate this journey with grace:
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Stay Informed: Understanding the science behind the reorganization process can help set realistic expectations and foster a positive mindset.
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Embrace Patience: Recognize that healing and improvement take time. The body’s processes are intricate and require patience.
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Keep Communicating: Open lines of communication between patients and healthcare providers are vital. Sharing concerns and achievements can make the journey less daunting.
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Focus on the Long-Term Goal: Remember, the ultimate aim is lasting improvement and well-being. Short-term fluctuations are part of the journey.
Understanding and embracing the reorganization phase can significantly impact our approach. Let’s continue to support each other with patience, knowledge, and encouragement as we help our patients navigate these changes together.
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