BackBone: February 2026

BACKBONE FEBRUARY 2026 | ISSUE 117

News from The Joint Chiropractic

Step Into Wellness Sale: Key Reminders for Finishing Strong Turn to page 5 for essential reminders and tips for sales success

New Help Desk Course and Resource Now Available in The Learning Center

Learn more about this 5-minute eLearning course and quiz on page 7

March’s Social Media Opportunities Bring Fresh Feed Energy

Find themes and content suggestions on page 9

February 2026 | Issue 117

CONTENTS IN EVERY ISSUE 5

January Clinic Openings

5

GO Elite + Honorable Mention

5

Tools and Resources

6

WC Profile: Colleen McCarthy

10

Chiropractic Connections

11

January Leaderboards

Accounting Dates February 16

Royalty Draw (February 1-15)

February 16

Inter-Clinic Fee Draw/Payment (February 1-15)

March 2

Royalty Draw (February 16-28)

March 2

Inter-Clinic Fee Draw/Payment (February 16-28)

March 5

Software Fees – Tech Fee

March 10

Minimum Royalties – February 2026

 Questions? accounting.services@thejoint.com.

2 | BACKBONE

FEATURED STORIES

5 Step Into Wellness Sale Concludes on March 2 10 Dr. Steve Knauf, D.C. is Featured Speaker at ACA’s Engage

ADDITIONAL READS

6 February’s Patient Newsletter Focuses on Movement as Self-Care Franchisees

DCs

WCs

7 New Help Desk Course and Resource Available in The Learning Center Franchisees

DCs

WCs

8 Align 2026 Registration Closing Soon Franchisees

9 March’s Social Media Opportunities Bring Fresh Energy to Your Feed Franchisees

 BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS

DCs

WCs

ISSUE 117 | FEBRUARY 2026 | 3

FROM

SANJIV'S DESK President and CEO, Sanjiv Razdan

Dear Franchisees and The Joint Community, The Align 2026 National Conference is just around the corner, and what we have planned is exciting, engaging, and centered around you – our franchisees – and your business. We have consulted with members of NFAB and many other franchisees from across the system to validate the topics and ensure that the content will be highly valuable and interesting to conference attendees.

Here is what you can expect to learn by attending: 1.

The Joint’s Big Brand Vision – The conversation around health and wellness continues to evolve.

Consumers are more mindful than ever about longevity, wellness and self-care routines, sleep, posture and more. At Align 2026, we will showcase what’s on the immediate horizon for our brand, how our approach to chiropractic care plays a role in this new mindset, and the action we can take to realize our vision.

2. Priority Projects and Initiatives – There will be a lot of content around the ongoing projects that are in progress at the Clinic Support Center, including the AXIS Front Office redesign and the exploration around incorporating supplements and orthotics into our clinic environments. These initiatives are designed to fuel growth across our franchise system and create a more engaging patient experience.

3. Collaborate with Your Peers – We heard your feedback around wanting to learn directly from each other and Align 2026 will offer several working sessions co-led by outstanding franchisees from our system who will share how they are moving the needle and finding success.

4 | BACKBONE

Registration is still open but only until March 6. Once we reach the registration deadline, there is no guarantee that rooms will still be available at Talking Stick Resort.

Read more on page 8 or visit our conference website https://align.thejoint.com/align26 - to register.

Earlier this month, we made Align One a permanent offering. Throughout our ongoing pilots, Align One showed strong adoption as a retention lever as compared to Flex Plan. Furthermore, Align One resulted in a higher percentage of patients with one or more visits, indicating that Align One is offering patients the flexibility and affordability they need to continue their chiropractic care.

We are currently in the final days of our Step Into Wellness Sale which will conclude on March 2 and is designed to re-engage lapsed patients, especially as they are restarting their new year with healthier routines in mind. Historically, this promotion has proven successful in driving conversion with existing patients who are not currently on a Wellness Plan. A few reminders and best practices are on page 5 to help guide your ongoing efforts towards a strong finish.

Thank you for your ongoing focus and commitment, and I am looking forward to seeing many of you at Align 2026 in Scottsdale very soon!

Together we serve,

Sanjiv Razdan

CONGRATULATIONS! January Clinic Openings ERNIE, LEONARD & ERIQUE ARELLANO

GO Elite: A New Level of Best in Class for Grand Openings There are no GO Elite clinics during the period of January 6, 2026 to December 5, 2026.

(Parrish, FL)

TOTAL CLINICS OPEN: 954 FRANCHISED UNITS: 879

STEP INTO WELLNESS Step Into Wellness Sale Sale Concludes on March 2 Promotion Guide 2026

T

here are just a few days remaining in The Joint’s annual Step Into Wellness Sale which invites lapsed OVERVIEW patientsPROMOTIONAL and those not currently on a Wellness Plan or Flex Plan to receive their first month for just $45.

Refer to the Step Into Wellness Sale Promotion Guide for discussion points, suggested local social media content and frequently asked questions.

Re-engaging lapsed patients opportunities is a focused In the summer and fall of 2025, The Joint Chiropractic provided several discounted forpriority

Tips for Sales Success

in 2026, and the Step Into Wellness Sale is a major As we approach the final days of the promotion, here are opportunity to connect with that target group. Thank addition to driving sales in our clinics, The Joint was able to help those patients rediscover and some best practices that can help clinic teams personalize you for your efforts! our lapsed and other non-plan members to discover the significant savings of our Wellness Plan. In

continue the benefits of routine and affordable care with a treatment plan provided by their Doctor

and articulate the offer with their patients.

Questions? contact your or FBC partner. of Chiropractic. The Joint is kicking off the New Yearwith our “StepPlease Into Wellness” Sale,RD a February

1.

promotion offering those to existing Preparation is key!

Before andsame duringsavings a patient’s visit, patients not currently on a Wellness Plan. make sure to review key details and notes regarding the patient’s purchase history, visitation and treatment Key Dates plan. ●

Sale Start Date:

2. Relate the offer to a patient’s treatment plan. Wellness Morning of Monday, February 2, 2026 Coordinators and doctors should collaborate to help the patient understand how the offer can help them ● Sale End Date: achieve their personal health and wellness goals.

End of Business on Monday, March 2, 2026

3. Demonstrate the specific savings a patient will receive.

Show the patient the exact savings they can receive via the offer by explaining the normal Wellness Plan price in your Details specific pricing zone versus the savings Offer they will receive on their first month.

Primary Offer: Purchase a Wellness Plan and get your first month for just $45!

Secondary Offer: None.

Tools and Resources for the System

Target Audience

E

Existing Walk-In patients who have had a visit since February 2024, and are not currently on a

ach Wellness month, we’ll share support Plan, Flexnewly-available Plan or Align One Plan. materials and guides that have been developed by the CSC to support franchisees and clinic teams. Explore the latest resources below!

This includes:

FOR FRANCHISEES:

CareCredit Information Session Recording – APlan, recording of an information session hosted by The Joint and CareCredit ● Canceled Wellness Plan, Flex or Align One members. on January 29. Download and watch the video.  ●

“One-and-done” patients.

Download the list of available toolkits, user guides, and instructional ● complete Walk-in patients who have not converted to a plan or package. webinars. 

 BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS

ISSUE 117 | FEBRUARY 2026 | 5

February’s Patient Newsletter Focuses on Movement as Self-Care

T

he February edition of our patient email newsletter was delivered to all email subscribers via Iterable beginning Tuesday, February 10.

View the newsletter.  This month focuses on movement as a form of selfcare and a foundation for everyday comfort, balance, and independence. Subscribers will find insights on how consistent movement contributes to active aging, simple ways to improve balance during the winter months, and guidance on why routine chiropractic care can be an act of self-love that enhances mobility, posture, and recovery. We also highlight National Senior Independence Month, with practical ways chiropractic care may help older adults stay active, confident, and engaged at every stage of life.

WC Profile: Colleen McCarthy The Joint Chiropractic – Sarasota Siesta Row (FL)

S

ince starting at The Joint Chiropractic – Sarasota Siesta Row, Colleen McCarthy has created a welcoming, patient-first environment that helps every individual feel valued and cared for from the moment they walk through our doors.

“Her professionalism, warmth and consistency elevate the patient experience, making chiropractic care approachable and life-changing for our Sarasota Siesta Row community,” says Dr. Brandon Heath, D.C. Colleen has earned the trust of both her patients and team members by ensuring every interaction reflects The Joint’s core values and standards. She has helped the clinic become one of the highest performers in the market through her strong conversion rates of over 80 percent. She is always available to pick up an extra shift, helps train new Wellness Coordinators and strives for continuous improvement in clinic operations.

“What I enjoy most about being part of The Joint is the relationships I build with patients and the sense of family in our clinic,” says Colleen. “It’s rewarding to know that together, we’re making a real difference in people’s quality of life.”

6 | BACKBONE

Training Development:

New Help Desk Course & Resource Available in The Learning Center Help Desk Basics eLearning Help Desk Basics is a 5-minute eLearning course and quiz designed to give learners foundational knowledge on accessing the Help Desk site, navigating its features, and submitting tickets. This course is recommended for new hires and anyone who requires access to the Help Desk.

To enroll, visit The Learning Center: Catalog > Technology, Systems, and Hardware > Help Desk Basics

Help Desk Guide for Requesters Resource The Help Desk Guide for Requesters is available in The Learning Center. This quick reference guide is designed to provide step-by-step instructions for completing a variety of tasks in the Help Desk system.

HELP DESK

GUIDE FOR REQUESTERS

To view, visit The Learning Center: Resources > Technology, Systems, and Hardware > Help Desk Guide © 2026 The Joint Corp. All Rights Reserved.

Training Tip: Rollout Guides for Owners & Ops Managers Owners and Ops Managers looking for more information about courses in The Learning Center or extra support with implementation should review the accompanying Rollout Guide. Rollout Guides outline the course, who should take it, and the expected learning outcomes, plus they include practical strategies to validate success. They’re a great best-practice resource to consult before rolling out any new training for your team.

To access Rollout Guides visit The Learning Center: Resources > Business, Marketing, Operations > Operations > Leadership > Rollout Guide.

User Clean-Up For TLC Admins To ensure accurate reporting, TLC Admins should periodically review their user list in The Learning Center (TLC) and deactivate accounts of terminated users. Review all active user information to confirm accuracy— including valid email address, matching username, and current job title. Keeping user lists up-to-date is the responsibility of the TLC Clinic Admin and ensures accurate transcripts and reporting.

For instructions, please refer to The Learning Center FAQ.

Questions? Contact training@thejoint.com.  BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS

ISSUE 117 | FEBRUARY 2026 | 7

April 13, 14 and 15, 2026 Talking Stick Resort Scottsdale, Arizona

A

lign 2026 is all about moving our business forward with clarity and confidence. Our conference event will bring our system together around clear priorities, shared accountability and practical strategies for growth while simultaneously showcasing how our brand is Made to Move.

Gather with colleagues and friends in Scottsdale for focused sessions and peer-led discussions that will define how we work together to fuel growth across our franchise system.

Visit https://align.thejoint.com/align26 to secure your spot today!

The final day to register is March 9, 2026 Hotel rooms are not guaranteed after March 9.

CONFERENCE ATTENDEE REGISTRATION

• • • • •

Franchisees as listed on the franchise agreement Managers within a franchise organization Doctors of Chiropractic Regional Developers and RD Team members Any other member of the franchise system

What’s Included? Access to all Align 2026 conference content and breakout sessions and all networking receptions and special events.

Registration Rate: $900

FRIENDS & FAMILY ATTENDEE REGISTRATION

Any adult guest of a conference attendee who is not a member of the franchise system, such as a spouse or partner.

What’s Included? Participation in all networking receptions and special events, plus breakfast and lunch on both days of the conference.

Conference access is not included.

Friends & Family Rate: $550

 Questions? Check out the Frequently Asked Questions section of the Align 2026 website, or reach out to Jolene Whitehead, PMO Project Manager at Jolene.whitehead@thejoint.com.

8 | BACKBONE

March’s Social Media Opportunities Bring Fresh Energy to Your Feed M

arch is all about fresh starts, movement, and momentum! With spring energy in the air and a calendar full of wellness moments, this is the perfect time to highlight recovery, routine care, and the habits that help people feel their best.

CLICK HERE to view the March Social Media Resource Guide and use the themes and key dates to create timely, engaging content that connects everyday movement to real relief.

Clinic Spotlight: The Joint Chiropractic – Rosenburg (TX) @thejoint_rosenberg

The Joint Chiropractic – Rosenberg (TX) has built an Instagram presence that feels educational, welcoming, and community-focused. Their content combines informative health messaging with relatable, real-world moments that make chiropractic care feel both accessible and relevant to their local audience. Here’s what stands out: Educates Through Relatable Reels Rosenberg’s short-form videos focus on explaining how and why chiropractic care matters. The Reels break down common issues like tension, posture, and mobility into simple, digestible bits, helping to connect followers to the everyday benefits of care.

Community & In-Clinic Moments Their feed often features real in-clinic activity including adjustments, team greetings, and candid moments that show personality behind the care. These glimpses help humanize the clinic and reduce fear or uncertainty around chiropractic visits.

Trend-Friendly, Fun Edutainment Many of the clinic’s Reels incorporate trending audio, light humor, or popular formats that resonate on Instagram. These are often paired with education (e.g., simple stretch demos or repositioning tips), striking a balance between fun and informative.

both trustworthy and approachable.

 BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS

The Joint Chiropractic – Rosenberg (TX) demonstrates how social media can educate, entertain, and build credible connections within the community.

Through a mix of educational Reels, authentic team moments, and trend-savvy formats, they position chiropractic care as

ISSUE 117 | FEBRUARY 2026 | 9

Chiropractic Connections: Building the Brand Across the Country

L

ast month, Dr. Steve Knauf, D.C., Vice President of Chiropractic and Compliance, attended the American Chiropractic Association's annual Engage event and spoke about the changing landscape of chiropractic.

He also shared more about career opportunities at The Joint and spent time connecting with key members of the profession including: •

Dr. Wayne Wolfson, NCMIC Chairman of the Board

•

Dr. Garrett Thompson, President of Logan University

•

Dr. Carl Cleveland, III, President of Cleveland University

•

Dr. Kris Anderson, ACA President, and Dr. Maithy Ta, newly appointed ACA Vice President

•

Dr. Don White, President of Texas Chiropractic Association, and

•

Dr. Frederick Carrick, Founder of Carrick Institute

(L-R): Dr. Wayne Wolfson (NCMIC Chairman of the Board), Dr. Steve Knauf and Dr. Garrett Thompson (President of Logan University).

Upcoming Events The Joint is participating in several premiere professional chiropractic events in 2026. If you are interested in assisting at an event, please contact careers@thejoint.com.

Event

Location

Dates

Parker Seminars

Las Vegas, NV

February 26 - 28, 2026

ACCRAC 2026

Kansas City, MO

March 26 - 28, 2026

Sherman College Lyceum

Boiling Springs, SC

April 30 – May 2, 2026

Logan University Symposium

Chesterfield, MO

May 1-2, 2026

FCA National Convention & Expo

Orlando, FL

August 27 – 30, 2026

Palmer Homecoming

Davenport, IA

September 17 – 19, 2026

Life University Vision Extravaganza

Atlanta, GA

September 17 – 19, 2026

Participating in a Local or Regional Chiropractic Event?

If you are a franchise organization or Co-op that is partnering with a professional chiropractic event in your area, email communications@thejoint.com with the name and date of the event for the opportunity to be featured in an upcoming issue of BackBone!

10 | BACKBONE

January Leaderboard Metrics Each month we highlight the performance leaders on some of our critical metrics. Find out who made the January leaderboards below!

TOP 10 SALES PERFORMERS

TOP 10 NEW PATIENT PERFORMERS

SAN ANGELO (TX)

POINCIANA (FL)

Pinole (CA)

$130,260

Brooks City Base (TX)

206

Midland (TX)

$129,829

Yulee (FL)

186

Downey (CA)

$127,886

Fort Myers (FL)

177

Natomas (CA)

$127,315

Pueblo (CO)

173

Sparks (NV)

$126,069

Midland (TX)

171

Elk Grove Commons (CA)

$124,093

Parrish (FL)

166

Summerville (SC)

$120,002

Springfield Southeast (MO)

164

Vacaville (CA)

$114,111

Ocala (FL)

162

East Mesa (AZ)

$109,817

Lakeland South (FL)

159

Sharyland (TX)

159

$132,013 IN SALES

TOP 10 ACTIVE MEMBER GROWTH PERFORMERS

AM GROWTH

AM GROWTH %

AMS BEGIN

AMS END 590

1

Johns Creek Town Center (GA)

289

96.01%

301

2

Layton (UT)

284

63.96%

444

728

3

Tigard (OR)

272

103.42%

263

535

4

Wood Village (OR)

260

139.78%

186

446

5

Camelback (AZ)

222

21.55%

1,030

1,252

6

Miramar (FL)

204

39.16%

521

725

7

Chicago Mayfair (IL)

201

73.90%

272

473

8

Johnson Creek (OR)

153

28.87%

530

683

9

Parrish (FL)

133

(100.00%)

0

133

10

Brooks City Base (TX)

119

1,1900.00%

1

120

TOP 10 CONVERSION PERFORMERS

CONVERSION %

CONVERSIONS

PROSPECTS

1

Happy Valley Crossroads (OR)

100.0%

7

7

2

East Cobb (GA)

89.8%

53

59

3

Glen Ellyn (IL)

88.2%

60

68

4

Monroe GA (GA)

87.4%

90

103

5

Sugar Hill (GA)

85.5%

53

62

5

Salinas (CA)

85.5%

100

117

7

Alcoa-Maryville (TN)

85.1%

103

121

8

Lawrenceville (GA)

84.2%

85

101

9

Monterey (CA)

83.1%

98

118

10

Hampton (VA)

82.9%

58

70

ATTRITION %

CANCELS

AMS BEGIN

TOP 10 ATTRITION PERFORMERS 1

Gilbert Town Square (AZ)

3.6%

16

2

Lone Tree (CO)

3.8%

18

471

3

Morrisville (NC)

4.3%

14

328

4

Des Peres (MO)

4.4%

26

593

4

Buckhead (GA)

4.4%

21

475

6

Huntington Beach West (CA)

4.7%

22

473

449

688

6

Collierville (TN)

4.7%

32

6

Lincoln Park (TX)

4.7%

24

514

6

McDowell Mountain Ranch (AZ)

4.7%

26

553

TOP 10 COMP % PERFORMERS

 BACK TO TABLE OF CONTENTS

314 NEW PATIENTS

COMP %

2025 SALES

1

Kenmore Buffalo (NY)

206.7%

$33,555

2

Bartlett (TN)

161.9%

$87,428

3

Bloomington IN (IN)

158.3%

$19,501

4

Miramar (FL)

136.7%

$55,591 $25,390

5

Regency Centre (KY)

131.5%

6

Deerfield Beach (FL)

121.8%

$19,790

7

Granbury (TX)

75.4%

$43,548

8

New Bern (NC)

61.1%

$24,346

9

New Braunfels North (TX)

56.8%

$36,150

10

McDonough (GA)

56.6%

$39,433

ISSUE 117 | FEBRUARY 2026 | 11