Robert (“Rob”) Jackson, DC, Back Talk Systems founder and longtime private-practice doctor of chiropractic, passed away on April 24 at the age of 67.
Born in Denver, Colorado, on December 15, 1957, Jackson earned his Doctorate of Chiropractic from Life Chiropractic College (now Life University) in 1982, then obtained his license to practice in Colorado and Missouri.
Back Talk Systems founder Jackson trained under J. Clay Thompson in the Thompson Technique—a gentle, drop-table adjustment method that uses precise, instrument-assisted force. This specialized training shaped the development of his patient-focused practice, which emphasized educating patients and actively involving them in their own care decisions.
Patient-centered care pioneer
In 1983, Jackson joined Applewood Chiropractic Health Center in Wheat Ridge, Colorado, as an associate DC. Two years later, he purchased the practice and began developing it into his vision for transparent, patient-centered care. He championed the Report of Findings concept, ensuring that patients left each appointment understanding their condition and treatment plan. This approach helped pioneer a model of chiropractic that empowered patients rather than leaving them passive.
In 1989, Jackson cofounded Back Talk Systems Inc., a company that produces patient-education and clinic-marketing materials—including brochures about medical conditions, spinal health posters, nerve-function handouts and scripted video resources—all designed to help DCs explain diagnoses and promote wellness care. Practices worldwide use Back Talk Systems’ products, which are available in multiple languages.
In addition to running a successful integrated practice and acting as president and CEO of Back Talk Systems, Jackson was also an author and educator, teaching the Thompson Technique and lecturing in the US and all over the world. He served as a postgraduate faculty instructor for continuing education hours or preceptor programs at his alma mater, Life University, as well as at Logan College of Chiropractic, Palmer College of Chiropractic, Parker College of Chiropractic and more. In 2008 and again in 2016, Parker Seminars honored him with their Chiropractor of the Year award.
“On stage, Rob was magnetic,” wrote colleague Mark Sanna, DC, in a comment on Jackson’s Dignity Memorial page. “As an entrepreneur, he was unstoppable.”
Jackson was also deeply involved in his community, serving on the Grace Christian Academy school board, the Paraclete Press board and other local and healthcare-related nonprofit groups.
Jackson is survived by his wife, Martha Rust Jackson, DNM; 10 children—Miriam, Jed, Caleb, Elijah, Levi, Micah, Jaime, Hannah, Raegen and Joel—and 14 grandchildren, along with his mother, Mitzi, and siblings Daniel, Michael and Sharon.
A memorial service was held on May 15 at Flatirons Community Church, West Campus, celebrating Jackson’s lifelong dedication to chiropractic care, education and community.
