Assessing the change in prevalence and characteristics of canadians utilizing chiropractic services across two time periods 2001–2010 and 2015–2018: a population-based repeated cross-sectional study

Abstract

Background

Despite increases in musculoskeletal disorders (MSD) in Canada, evidence suggests utilization of chiropractic services has remained relatively stable over time. Understanding the extent to which chiropractors are consulted and factors associated with their utilization may suggest factors related to accessing care. We assessed the change in prevalence and characteristics of Canadians seeking chiropractic care across two time periods 2001–2010 and 2015–2018.

Methods

We used national cross-sectional data from seven cycles of the Canadian Community Health Survey between 2001 and 2018. The survey included Canadians aged 12 years and older living in private dwellings in all provinces and territories. National annual weighted prevalence and age-standardized weighted prevalence (and 95% confidence intervals) of chiropractic utilization were calculated. We calculated prevalence of chiropractic utilization stratified by demographic, socioeconomic, lifestyle and health-related variables. Crude linear trends and change in prevalence from 2001 to 2010 were assessed using linear regression models.

Results

The national annual prevalence of Canadians consulting a chiropractor in the previous 12 months slightly increased from 11.0% (95% CI 10.8, 11.3) in 2001 to 11.4% (95%CI 11.1, 11.7) in 2010, and in those reporting receiving regular health care from a chiropractor from 7.5% (95%CI 7.2, 7.7) in 2015 to 7.9% (95%CI 7.7, 8.2) in 2018. Prevalence of utilization varied by province, highest in the Western provinces but lowest in Atlantic provinces. The age-specific prevalence of chiropractic utilization was highest in those aged 35–49 years and remained stable over time, except for slight increase in those aged 65–79 years. A higher percentage of Canadians identifying as white, Canadian-born, in the highest quintile of household income, overweight, physically active and in excellent health reported seeking chiropractic services. The most common reported chronic conditions measured in the survey among Canadians consulting chiropractors were chronic back problems, arthritis, fibromyalgia and headaches.

Conclusion

The national prevalence of utilization of chiropractic services among Canadians slightly increased over time but varied by province and respondents’ socioeconomic and health characteristics. Chronic back problems were the most common reported chronic condition. This comprehensive population-based study on chiropractic utilization in Canada can be used to inform decisions concerning health human resources and access to rehabilitation care for MSD.