Abstract
Background
Like many other countries, South Africa is undergoing a significant demographic transition
marked by a steadily increasing geriatric population. With advancing age, musculoskeletal
(MSK) conditions become more prevalent, often resulting in disability, chronic pain, and a
diminished quality of life. Despite the significant MSK burden within the population, the
provision of appropriate MSK care remains frequently overlooked in the public healthcare
sector. Chiropractic care, however, is particularly well-positioned to address such conditions
due to its non-invasive and patient-centered approach. Nonetheless, research on geriatric
patients seeking chiropractic care in South Africa remains limited, highlighting the need for
baseline data on their clinical profiles to inform how they can be best served.
Aim
The primary aim of this study was to explore and describe the clinical profile of geriatric
patients who utilise chiropractic services at the University of Johannesburg Chiropractic
Student Clinic in South Africa.
Methods
This study employed a retrospective, cross-sectional, and descriptive design. Data were
collected from existing patient records of individuals aged 65 and older who attended the
University of Johannesburg Chiropractic Clinic between February 1, 2024, and April 30, 2024.
Relevant data fields, including age, gender, diagnosis, comorbidities, presenting complaint,
and treatment modalities, were extracted and manually captured into a questionnaire
developed by the researcher and the research supervisor. Data were analysed using
frequencies and descriptive statistics (basic statistics, including counts, percentages, means,
standard deviations, and maximum values). All permissions were requested.
Results
A total of 100 patient files were reviewed. Most patients were between 65 and 74 years of age.
The most frequently reported region of complaint was the lumbar region, at 46% (n=46),
followed by the lumbar region with extremity involvement at 25% (n=25), and the cervical
region at 14% (n=14). The most common comorbidities were hypertension 58%(n=58), and
diabetes mellitus 21% (n=21). The predominant clinical diagnoses were myofascial pain
dysfunction, 33.7% (n=57), and osteoarthritis, 14.8% (n=25). Chiropractic manipulation was
the most frequently utilized treatment modality, 80.8% (n=80), followed by massage therapy,
51.0% (n=51), joint mobilization, 30.0%(n=30), interferential current therapy, 30.0%(n=30), dry ...