When was the last time a healthcare provider truly listened to you?
That’s the question at the heart of our recent conversation with Dr. Zach Simkins, founder of Foundation Chiropractic. Chiropractic care is one of the most widely misunderstood fields in healthcare, and Dr. Simkins pulls back the curtain on what patient-centered care really looks like.
A Different Kind of Chiropractor
The national average for chiropractic appointments clocks in at just 114 seconds. In contrast, Dr. Simkins dedicates a full hour to his initial assessments, taking patients through a detailed “toes-to-nose” exam. His philosophy is simple: you’re treating humans, not just symptoms.
It’s a perspective grounded in both personal and professional experience. As a former professional rugby player who broke his spine twice, Dr. Simkins knows what it’s like to sit on both sides of the treatment table. That dual lens fuels his commitment to care that restores…not just relieves.
The “Minimum Effective Dose” Approach
One of the things that sets Foundation Chiropractic apart is their approach to treatment. Instead of creating dependency through endless adjustments, Dr. Simkins focuses on what he calls the “minimum effective dose.”
That means patients leave not just feeling better—but actually being better. He empowers them with personalized mobility work, strengthening exercises, and tools for long-term success. As he puts it:
“It’s borderline unethical to send somebody out there feeling better but not being better.”
When and Why to Seek Chiropractic Care
Our conversation also tackled a common question: when should someone seek chiropractic care? The answer, according to Dr. Simkins, is ideally before pain becomes debilitating.
We explored the differences between chiropractic care and physical therapy, and how both play unique but complementary roles. Just as important, he emphasized the psychological side of recovery, why addressing the fear, stress, and mindset tied to injury can be just as important as the physical treatment.
Another hallmark of Dr. Simkins’ practice is collaboration. He regularly partners with personal trainers, physical therapists, and other healthcare providers to ensure patients receive comprehensive care. This whole-person approach is about breaking down silos and building bridges across healthcare disciplines.
A Hopeful Perspective on Healing
Perhaps the most powerful takeaway from our discussion was Dr. Simkins’ unwavering optimism.
“I’ve never been let down by the human body,” he told us.
It’s a reminder that with the right guidance and a commitment to the process, most people can overcome even serious injuries to regain their quality of life.
Whether you’re currently navigating pain, working to prevent injury, or just curious about what true patient-centered care looks like, this episode offers invaluable insights.
To learn more about Dr. Zach’s practice, visit Foundation Chiropractic to learn more.
