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Table 2 Coding tree for written comments recorded in surveys

From: Attitudes towards chiropractic: an analysis of written comments from a survey of north american orthopaedic surgeons

Themes

 

Sub-themes (n)

Number of Endorsements

 

n

  

Variability amongst chiropractors

0

No distinct sub-themes were identified

55

Areas where chiropractic is perceived as effective

4

Mechanical low back pain

16

  

Musculoskeletal disorders

16

  

Non-surgical injuries

8

  

Spinal complaints

3

Concerns with chiropractic treatment

6

Chiropractic care is of marginal or no benefit

13

  

Non-musculoskeletal complaints

12

  

Serious adverse events

11

  

General medical care

8

  

Non-spinal complaints

7

  

Structural scoliosis

3

Patient Interaction

4

Chiropractic terminology is misleading

17

  

Chiropractors make false or exaggerated claims

13

  

Chiropractors spend considerable time with patients

6

Chiropractic training

2

Chiropractors are poorly trained

10

  

Other therapists can provide spinal manipulation

8

Unethical Behavior

4

Chiropractors treat excessively

18

  

Chiropractors are overly financially motivated

15

  

General ethical concerns

5

  

Chiropractic requires stronger regulatory oversight

5

Scientific basis of chiropractic

2

Chiropractic is unscientific

20

  

More chiropractic research is needed

6

Personal experiences with chiropractic

3

Positive experiences

13

  

Negative experiences

4

  

Uncertainty as to the role of chiropractic

4