From Scepticism to Integration: Danish Study Sheds Light on Chiropractors’ Use of Health Apps

Background: Health Apps as Self-Management Tools

MSK pain is one of the leading causes of reduced quality of life and healthcare burden. Mobile health (mHealth) solutions, including apps, offer promising support for patient self-management and could help ease pressure on healthcare systems. Despite Denmark’s high level of digitalization, health apps are not yet widely adopted in chiropractic care.

Study Design and Participants

The study used a mixed-methods approach, combining a survey of 650 members of the Danish Chiropractic Association with in-depth interviews with 11 chiropractors. The research examined usage patterns, attitudes, and perceived barriers and facilitators.

Key Findings

• Personal vs. Clinical Use: While over half of chiropractors use health apps personally, only 15% use them in patient care.
• Most Used App Types: Apps from Danish health authorities, exercise apps, and fitness trackers.
• Barriers: Lack of knowledge, time constraints, uncertainty about app quality, and lack of financial incentives.
• Facilitators: User-friendliness, positive patient feedback, and support for self-management.

Diverging Attitudes and Practice Values

Chiropractors were divided in their views on health apps. Some saw them as valuable tools to support patient self-care and complement treatment, while others were skeptical, fearing that apps could undermine the personal relationship with patients.

Many emphasized the importance of aligning app content with their professional values and preferred to test apps themselves before recommending them.

Practice Implications

The study highlights the need for:

• Targeted education on evaluating and using health apps.
• Quality assurance and recommendations for evidence-based apps.
• Financial incentives and clear implementation guidelines.
• Inclusive patient engagement, ensuring apps are offered to a broader range of patients, including older or less digitally literate individuals.

Conclusion

Digital health is making its way into chiropractic practice, but the journey from skepticism to integration requires knowledge, tools, and support. This study offers valuable insights into how chiropractors can play a key role in promoting patient self-management through digital solutions—provided the right conditions are in place.

Mette Mouritsen Sørensen, Madalina Jäger, Mette Jensen Stochkendahl. From scepticism to integration: adoption of mobile health apps in Danish chiropractic practice—a mixed methods study. Chiropractic & Manual Therapies 2025.