Palmer College of Chiropractic West

Academics

Discipline of Assessment (DB)

This discipline is designed to provide the knowledge and skill necessary to arrive at an accurate diagnostic impression. Examination procedures are presented and explained, and their application to chiropractic care is discussed. The ability to correlate physical and laboratory findings and apply them to chiropractic practice is stressed.

Introduction to basic history taking and general physical examination procedures, including: taking vitals; musculoskeletal evaluation (palpation and range of motion); basic neurologic testing; and peripheral vascular evaluation.

Presentation of the most common conditions affecting the low back and physical examination procedures for the low back.

Presentation of the most common conditions affecting the thoracic spine and rib cage; physical examination procedures for the thoracic spine, ribs, and chest. Scoliosis evaluation.

Presentation of the most common conditions affecting the cervical spine and physical examination procedures for the head and neck.

Methodologies associated with some of the more common and standard laboratory tests. Interpretation, application and correlation of standard laboratory findings, including: hematological and serological studies; urinalysis, fecal examinations and the analysis of other body fluids; necessity for ordering special tests.

The physical examination indicators for eye, ear, nose and throat disorders, cranial nerves, and dermatology. Practical instruction in the use of ophthalmoscope and otoscope.

Comprehensive study of diagnostic imaging procedures utilized in the evaluation of visceral diseases common or important in chiropractic clinical practice. Imaging procedures, including: plain x-rays, MRI, nuclear bone scanning, CT, ultrasound, contrast radiography and fluoroscopy, as well as fiber-optic camera methods will be discussed.

Differential diagnosis of visceral conditions, including the head, chest, and abdomen. Cardiovascular, pulmonary, gastrointestinal, and genitourinary complaints will be discussed. Case studies and use of the oto-ophthalmoscope.

Comprehensive study of diagnostic imaging procedures utilized in the evaluation of lumbar spine, pelvis, and lower extremity conditions common or important in chiropractic clinical practice. Imaging procedures, including: plain x-rays, MRI, nuclear bone scanning, CT, ultrasound, contrast radiography and fluoroscopy, as well as fiber-optic camera methods will be studied.

Differential diagnosis of neurologic and musculoskeletal conditions of the low back and lower extremities based on patient presentation. 

Integration of clinical evaluation procedures for the entire body using patient scenarios. Summative and formative assessment of student performance of patient evaluation procedures, history taking skills, documentation and patient records, critical thinking and evidence-based practice skills.

Comprehensive study of diagnostic imaging procedures utilized in the evaluation of cervical, thoracic, cranial and upper extremity conditions common or important in chiropractic clinical practice. Imaging procedures, including: X-rays, MRI, nuclear bone scanning, CT, ultrasound, contrast radiography and fluoroscopy, as well as fiber-optic camera methods will be studied.

Differential diagnosis of neurologic and musculoskeletal conditions of the cervical spine and upper extremity based on patient presentation.

Presentation of actual clinical cases, including: discussion of case history; physical examination; x-ray findings and clinical impression directed toward acquiring the skills for developing and presenting a competent report of findings to the patient. Clinic section includes small group sessions. Presentation of integrated review of patient record keeping, including: an appropriate SOAP format, patient interview and chiropractic assessment. Emphasis on basic operational procedures for the clinic.

Small group tutorials on regional examinations (e.g., shoulder, knee, hip examinations). Review of general concepts of case management of common musculoskeletal conditions, and a presentation of appropriate patient report of findings.

Presentation of actual clinical cases, including: discussion of case history, physical examination and x-ray findings and clinical impression. Overview of office software, spreadsheets and Workers’ Compensation and Personal Injury report writing.

Review of patient care protocols, patient management, and office management practices as observed during field training assignments. Small group discussion led by faculty members on evaluation and analysis of practice patterns of field practitioners.

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