Chiropractor’s practice focuses on life, health

Chiropractor Mark Cochran doesn’t focus on what’s wrong with the human body; he focuses on what’s right.

He starts with the notion that the body is designed to be healthy. “We have everything inside to be healthy, happy and successful,” he said.

“The only time we have pain or disease is when something inside is interfering with that …. Pain and disease are nothing but diminished life expression.”

Cochran admits there’s a strong spiritual element to the way he practices. He follows what he calls a “vitalistic” philosophy, vital meaning life. His practice, on Sherman Avenue, is called the Cafe of Life.

When a patient comes in, most chiropractors will say, “Where does it hurt; let’s see what we can do to make the pain go away,” he explained. And while he asks about symptoms because it helps him analyze what is going on, his focus is more holistic.

“My focus is on empowering life. Everyone is more than a set of symptoms.”

In fact, he doesn’t refer to people who seek his help as “patients,” but rather “persons I serve.” Among the principles of vitalism is the focus on life and health and that practitioner and person served must share the same healing intention.

Cochran also says that it’s important to not have an attachment to outcome, because it’s impossible to predict, and the focus needs to be on achieving maximum human potential.

Cochran, a former career Marine Corps officer, came to his philosophy after undergoing severe physical pain. Diagnosed with a type of inflammatory arthritis, he had an epiphany around 1999.

“I decided to forget about focusing on disease and turn on the light.”

Chiropractic adjustments had helped him in the past and, after leaving the service on a medical discharge, he went to Palmer College of Chiropractics in Iowa, graduating in 2001.

He’d graduated from the University of Idaho in 1980 with a degree in psychology and liked the Idaho area, so he returned here to open the Cafe of Life. As a part of his practice, he works with families and kids. His office includes kid-sized furniture and toys. He’s a member of the International Chiropractic Association.

“Everyone can benefit. Even newborns can be safely adjusted,” he said.

Benefits of adjustments for kids include a stronger immune system, improved behavior, improved physical performance, improved cognitive function and better overall health, he says in a brochure.

In general, he says his adjustment techniques are very gentle. “The body tells me exactly what needs to be done.”