Before the Scalpel

Ep 13: From Polio to Purpose

In this special episode of Before The Scalpel, Dr. James P. Powell shares the deeply personal story that shaped his life, his career, and the foundation of Powell Chiropractic Clinic. From witnessing his mother battle polio in the 1950s to seeing the life-changing effects of chiropractic care firsthand, Dr. Powell reflects on the experiences that inspired generations of chiropractors within the Powell family. He also shares powerful stories from his early years in practice, including remarkable cases involving asthma, spinal injuries, and the importance of thorough patient evaluation. This episode dives into the philosophy behind chiropractic care, the body’s incredible ability to heal, and why finding the root cause matters more than simply masking symptoms. Episode Highlights: • The story behind “From Polio to Purpose” • How chiropractic changed the Powell family forever • The origins of chiropractic and the story of D.D. Palmer • Why faith, confidence, and belief matter in healing • Powerful patient stories that shaped a 50+ year career • The importance of proper diagnosis, X-rays, and patient-centered care • Chiropractic as a lifestyle, not just a treatment This is more than a conversation about chiropractic, it’s a story about legacy, purpose, healing, and hope.

Ep 12 Season1 Finale- What We Want the World to Know

In this Season 1 finale of Before the Scalpel, the doctors share one of the stories that reminds us why this work matters. Cindy came to Powell Chiropractic after trying everything. When nothing brought lasting relief, she was told her next steps were injections—or surgery. Pain had become part of her everyday life, and options felt limited. Instead, Cindy discovered the Disc-covery™ spinal decompression program. In this episode, Cindy shares her journey—what she had tried before and how Disc-covery helped her achieve complete pain relief without injections or surgery. Her testimony is a powerful reminder that there may be another path forward, even when it feels like you’ve reached the end of the road. As we close out Season 1, this story reflects the heart of Before the Scalpel: real people, real struggles, and real outcomes—shared to bring education, hope, and clarity to those searching for answers.

Ep. 11 From the Other Side of The Table

In this powerful and personal episode of Before the Scalpel, Dr. Jim Powell and Dr. Walter Null step out from behind the adjusting table and into the patient’s chair. Chiropractors may spend their lives caring for others, but they’re not immune to injury, pain, or the wear and tear that comes from decades of hands-on work. In this episode, the doctors share their own stories of back pain, injuries, and the moments when they had to rely on each other for care — experiencing firsthand what their patients feel every day. They also explore why Powell Chiropractic has earned the reputation of being “the chiropractor’s chiropractor,” trusted by other doctors, healthcare professionals, and families alike when the stakes are high and surgery is on the table. This episode offers a rare, behind-the-scenes look at what happens when the healers become the ones in need of healing — and why trust, experience, and community matter more than ever. Whether you’re a patient, a provider, or someone searching for answers, The Other Side of the Table is a reminder that even the strongest backs need support.

Ep. 10 Decades of Trust

Can you still receive chiropractic care if you’ve had back surgery or a spinal fusion?  It’s one of the most common—and important—questions patients ask after surgery. In Episode 10, the doctors break down what you need to know about chiropractic care following spinal procedures. They discuss safety considerations, when care may be appropriate, and why individualized evaluation matters so much after surgery or fusion. This episode also reflects on the legacy of trust Powell has built over the past 50 years—guiding patients through complex spinal decisions with experience, integrity, and a commitment to long-term outcomes. Whether surgery is in your past or part of your story, this conversation offers clarity, confidence, and education you can trust. If you or someone you love has had spinal surgery and is wondering what options still exist, this episode is for you.

Ep. 9 Your Brain on Pain

Pain isn’t just happening in your body—it’s happening in your brain. In this episode, the doctors unpack the powerful role your brain plays in both experiencing pain and guiding true healing. Your brain is your biggest player in pain, but it’s also your most trusted helper when it comes to recovery—if it’s given the right information. We dive into how many pain medications are designed to trick the brain into thinking a problem has been resolved, even when the underlying issue hasn’t changed. When symptoms are muted without correction, the brain keeps pushing the body forward… while the body quietly continues to break down. You’ll learn why understanding the brain–body connection matters, how pain signals really work, and why addressing the root cause—not just the symptom—is critical for long-term healing. If you’ve ever wondered why pain keeps coming back, this episode connects the dots in a way that just makes sense.