Issue 8 - June 2004

How to treat the elite
By Gary Huddleston, DC

Chiropractic is no longer a "secret" treatment discussed in back rooms. It is an accepted, worldwide healing system that produces results. Athletes, movie stars and rock personalities all know this.

I am fortunate to have treated the most famous of major league baseball players, top talent in the NFL, professional racers, bodybuilders, wrestlers, actors and rock stars. People are people and patients are patients. But at the same time, treating celebrities requires following protocols that are not common to every day practice.

Here are some tips I have learned during my practice of treating the elite:

1. Acquire credentials. Credentials are more than your doctor of chiropractic diploma. If you aim to treat athletes, become certified in sports medicine. Consider certification in massage, physical therapy, acupuncture and other specialties.

2. Start small. You may want — and aim — to treat a superstar but you probably won’t be able to do that right out of the gate. Start treating athletes at a more manageable level, such as in high school (or even youth) sports. Establish a track record with local coaches that you can put on your résumé and build on.

Next, go to a college or university. At this level, it is still relatively easy to speak to the trainers or the therapists — some of the people who closely guard athletes. I don't recommend directly approaching the coaching staff. College coaches rely on their healthcare providers for input concerning the welfare of their athletes. If you bypass these caregivers, you could create a situation that will be held against you later.

3. Build a portfolio. Continue your formal learning and augment your education with life experience. Work at any event you can and be willing to work for free sometimes, just to get the experience and exposure of working in that venue.

Include all of these experiences in your portfolio, which should include your curriculum vitae, picture, certificates, certifications and anything else that shows why you are qualified to treat the elite.

Provide the portfolio for review when you first meet the elite.

4. Stay ‘cool.’ First consult the senior trainer, orthopedist or medical staff member before treating an athlete — and possibly the agent or attorney before treating a star.

Focus on what you can do to help, not on the miraculous benefits of chiropractic or the many problems it can address.

Understand that you may come up against bruised egos or athletes who are upset and angry about being hurt. These individuals — or their agents — may lash out. Or, they may question you interminably: “Does that hurt?” “What was that pop?” “Why are you doing that?” Answer their questions with courtesy, modesty and basic facts.

5. Carry everything you need. Anticipate what you may need and carry it with you — massage supplies, exam equipment, tapes and wraps, various analgesic sprays and various pieces of physical therapy equipment.

6. Remember who you are. It is always a thrill to treat a famous personality or athlete, but always remember who you are — the doctor, not a fan. Never ask for autographs or mementoes.

And if a celebrity offers you a gift, respect his/her privacy. Don’t put it on display. You could be in violation of HIPAA rules and put your practice at risk.

I have enjoyed being a chiropractor to some of the legends in rock music and professional sports. With determination, a strong work ethic and the proper training, you may enjoy the same thrills.

Dr. Gary Huddleston, 1981 graduate of Cleveland Chiropractic College in Kansas City, Mo., is owner of Eurotech Mfg. His current practice is comprised only of the film, entertainment and music industry; world class athletes and professional mixed martial arts fighters. He can be contacted at 573-348-5982.