Nuts + Bolts: Tick-borne Diseases in Virginia

Presentation Description:

This presentation will explore the prevalence of tick-borne diseases in Virginia, their symptoms, and the critical role allied health professionals, particularly chiropractors, play in recognizing and managing these conditions. Patient-based recommendations will be discussed to build chiropractors' capacity to work with patients or clients with diagnosed, misdiagnosed, or undiagnosed tick-borne diseases.

For additional context...

Virginia is a high-incidence state for Lyme disease, Alpha-gal Syndrome, Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever, and several other tick-borne diseases. These diseases can lead to chronic pain, fatigue, and other debilitating symptoms if not correctly diagnosed and treated. Allied health professionals are often on the front lines of managing pain and other symptoms associated with tick-borne diseases. Chiropractors need to be knowledgeable about tick-borne diseases because many symptoms, such as joint pain and muscle aches, overlap with conditions they commonly treat. Chiropractors are well positioned to help with early identification by recognizing symptoms that may indicate a tick-borne disease; pain management by providing therapies and interventions to alleviate pain and improve the quality of life for patients; and patient education by informing patients about the importance of seeking medical evaluation for tick bites and related symptoms. By understanding the prevalence and complexities of tick-borne diseases, chiropractors can provide more effective and comprehensive care for their patients.