As the founder of Strong By Intention, I know that mindful movement is a foundational pillar of health and wellness. I spoke to Dr. Jim Hankinson, a chiropractor with 25 years of experience at Back to Wellness in Kirkwood, about why men are notorious for delaying treatment until pain symptoms become unbearable and movement is practically diminished. Dr. Jim explains why that mindset needs to change—and how innovative treatments can help decrease pain and improve a healthy quality of life.
Katie: Describe "Men's Health."
Dr. Jim: It's about staying fit mentally, physically, and emotionally. Health is the whole picture—not just treating symptoms but improving daily life.
Katie: What prevents men from taking care of their health?
Dr. Jim: Stubbornness. Men think, "I'm the man. I'm supposed to handle this." Usually, their wives finally say, "Get this taken care of—I'm tired of hearing you whine about it."
Katie: Why is mobility so important for men?
Dr. Jim: It's the key to aging well. Regular stretching and adjustments help prevent chronic neck, back, or hip pain. Prevention beats cure every time.
Katie: What finally gets men in the door?
Dr. Jim: When pain interferes with the things they enjoy—golfing, pickleball, even standing at work. When they can't live life the way they want, that's when they seek help.
Katie: What makes SoftWave therapy unique for pain relief?
Dr. Jim: SoftWave treats a wide range of joint and muscle issues—knees, shoulders, back, TMJ, plantar fasciitis, and more. It regenerates damaged tissue, increases blood flow up to 300%, reduces inflammation, and improves mobility. One patient with neuropathy hadn't felt his foot in years. After one SoftWave session, he walked the hallway and cried because he had hope again. Another, a 56-year-old Ironman finisher, said after one treatment, "I haven't felt this good in my knee in 20 years." Both saw significant improvement immediately. That first-session progress is what we expect to see, but long-term, lasting results take time. Our care plans typically span 6–12 weeks.
Katie: Have you personally tried SoftWave?
Dr. Jim: Absolutely. I've had knee, foot, back, neck, and shoulder injuries. I found SoftWave after being told I needed shoulder surgery that would keep me out of work for months. After eight sessions, I was sleeping on my left side again—no surgery required.
Katie: What other services do you offer?
Dr. Jim: Chiropractic adjustments, manual stretching, electronic stimulation to improve blood flow and reduce muscle tension, and red light therapy, which also helps with inflammation, skin tone, and mood. Many people think we only treat backs and necks. But I can adjust almost any joint—knees, shoulders, feet, even elbows.
Katie: What distinguishes your approach?
Dr. Jim: Not all chiropractors work the same way. I focus on comprehensive wellness and utilize various techniques. I'll refer patients to their primary care doctor if something is beyond my scope.
Katie: What are common misconceptions about chiropractic care?
Dr. Jim: That it's unsafe, or once you start, you're locked in. The truth? Chiropractic is very safe. And no, you don't have to keep coming. You'll want to because of how much better you feel.
Katie: What's your message to men who are delaying care?
Dr. Jim: It's not that hard. Just pick up the phone. The sooner you start treatment, the better your life will be. Don't wait until the pain takes over.
Back to Wellness is located at 11229 Manchester Rd in Kirkwood. For more information, visit stlbackdoc.com. Wellness is a journey fueled by strength, energy, and confidence. For more information, visit StrongByIntention.com.