title: Clinical evaluation tools: a survey of doctors of chiropractic and students at one chiropractic college.
abstract: BACKGROUND
  The reliability and validity of many evaluation tools leading to clinical decision-making for spinal manipulation are varied. We surveyed senior students and DC employees at one chiropractic college regarding 1) which analysis tools should be used and 2) factors that influence their choices.
  
  
  METHODS
  The survey queried which tools should be used on a routine patient encounter. Clinical evaluation tools included palpation, skin temperature analysis, leg length analysis, and radiographs.
  
  
  RESULTS
  Surveys were collected from 58 doctors of chiropractic (DCs) and 74 students. Respondents from both groups reported to most commonly use static palpation, followed by motion palpation and leg length analysis. DC respondents ranked evidence and personal experience high for rationale; student respondents frequently chose patient preference.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  DC and student respondents reported use of clinical evaluation tools consistently. However, some variations in rationale were noted. It is important for educators to provide a balanced presentation of the strengths and limitations of clinical analysis procedures to support the development of well-justified evidence-based clinical decision-making skills.
authors.affiliation: Associate Professor, Clinic, Palmer College of Chiropractic.
authors.forename: Barbara A
authors.initials: BA
authors.lastname: Mansholt
authors.affiliation: Associate Professor, Senior Research Clinician, Palmer Center for Chiropractic Research, Palmer College of Chiropractic.
authors.forename: Robert D
authors.initials: RD
authors.lastname: Vining
keywords: chiropractic; decision making; palpation; spinal manipulation