On my first day of chiropractic school, I walked into the cadaver lab with no idea what journey lay ahead. I felt excited and proud, yet nervous and even a little scared. While I never doubted that I had made the right decision in choosing this field of study, I did wonder what this chapter of my life would hold and where this commitment would ultimately take me. Fast forward three years, and I took my first steps into the Missouri Orthopedic Institute for my first day as a 10th trimester student. Looking back, it is unbelievable to reflect on all that I have learned and just how much my life has changed during this time.
Preparing to Transition into the Profession
Even more surreal has been spending my final trimester working with K. Jeffery Miller, DC, at the Missouri Orthopedic Institute, an experience that has already proven to be nothing short of phenomenal. Jacob and I are seeing more patients, both in volume and variety of presentation, than I ever imagined possible in an academic setting. I am incredibly grateful for this opportunity as I approach graduation and transition into professional practice.
Dr. Miller practices within the orthopedic surgery department at the Missouri Orthopedic Institute, which not only brings a great deal of prestige, but also meaningful validation to the chiropractic profession. Practicing in a multidisciplinary, hospital-based setting demonstrates to patients that chiropractors play a primary role in the care of musculoskeletal conditions. It also highlights our ability, as physicians, to thoroughly examine, diagnose and treat a wide range of ailments. I am witnessing firsthand both the impact chiropractic care can have and its limitations through the patients who seek our care. With a diverse patient population ranging from geriatric individuals to collegiate athletes, we have already been exposed to a multitude of unique and interesting cases within just our first two weeks.
Next week, Jacob and I will each have the opportunity to observe a knee reconstruction surgery. While chiropractors do not perform surgical procedures, the opportunity to observe the operation and study the anatomy in a live setting will provide invaluable educational exposure and further enhance my clinical understanding. I cannot overstate my excitement!
The Benefit of Practical Experience
Adjusting to the cold Missouri winter has certainly been a change of pace. As I write this, snow is falling outside, threatening a harsh weekend winter storm. Despite the cold, however, my resolve to improve my clinical skills has not diminished, if anything, it has only strengthened. I cannot emphasize enough how important I believe our role is as part of a comprehensive health care team, and this externship places me directly at the center of that collaboration. I look forward to continuing to learn and grow during this experience and am extremely proud to share this journey with you all.
Photo: Left to Right: NUHS Florida DC students Jacob Rivard and blog author Dylan Kahn with Dr. Miller at the Missouri Orthopaedic Institute.
