BackBone: March 2025 by The Joint Corp.

FROM THE CORNER OFFICE

President and CEO, Sanjiv Razdan

Dear Franchisees and The Joint Community,

Our 2025 Spring Summit is taking place in less than three weeks, and we can’t wait to come together as a franchise system to align on the strategies that are driving us forward, learn from one another and celebrate our achievements!

Here’s what you can expect at the Spring Summit:

1. Bringing the Franchise System Together – We heard you loud and clear: there’s a strong desire to gather in person in back-to-back years. We’re thrilled to bring our franchise system together for this special one-day event, where we can share insights, ideas, and applaud our successes.

2. No Registration Fees – In response to feedback about costs, we’ve made this a no-cost event for you to attend. By keeping it to one day, we’ve made it possible to cover the Summit’s expenses, meaning no registration fees for you!

3. Celebrating Award Winners In-Person – We’re also incredibly excited that we’ll be honoring our award winners live and in person ! We know how important it is to recognize and celebrate achievements face-to-face, and we can’t wait to recognize the hard work of the groups and individuals from across our franchise system.

4. Powerful Content for Your Success –

We’ve curated a lineup of engaging content that will focus on our priority initiatives and the key metrics that will drive our collective success. Our main stage presentations are all about empowering you with the tools and knowledge to take your business to the next level. We’re bringing in top performing franchisees from across the system to share their proven best practices and tactics that have led to their achievements. This is your chance to hear firsthand how others are excelling and discover actionable strategies you can implement in your own business right away.

This summit is all about you – helping you learn, grow, and achieve even greater success in the year ahead. I can’t wait to see you there, to celebrate your accomplishments, and to provide you with the tools and inspiration to reach new heights. Registration and The Joint's discounted hotel block booking closes on April 1 , so I urge any franchisee, regional developer, clinic manager and other trusted leaders from our system who have not yet

secured their place at the event to make sure you don’t miss out. More details can be found on page 7

At the end of the month, we will begin the beta testing of The Joint’s MVP Mobile App. This is an exciting win for our system that will significantly enhance our patient’s experience. You can read more about the features that this first version will have on page 8 . Thank you to the Marketing, IT and Operations Teams here at the CSC for their dedication to bringing this project to life!

As we think about the future of the Mobile App, we are conducting a short survey to ensure that the App continues to evolve in ways that support your clinic operations and enhance the patient experience. Please make sure that you take the quick survey communicated in The Alignment to help us understand what functionalities will be most valuable to you and your clinic in the long term. All responses are due by April 4.

I recently attended the Parker Seminars in Las Vegas along with other members of the Executive Leadership Team and the CSC Team, including our CMO Lori Abou Habib, Chief Technology Officer Charles Nelles and Dr. Steve Knauf, D.C., Vice President of Chiropractic and Compliance. This was an incredible opportunity to continue building inroads with chiropractic schools and professional associations and foster the valuable partnerships that we have already created. Thank you to all those who attended and represented our brand, including Shane Weber, Dr. Ed Ernstrom, D.C., Dr. Scott Wofford, D.C., Dr. Dan Rae, D.C, and the team from Joint Ventures, LLC. Also, a shout out to all The Joint Doctors of Chiropractic who attended the event and visited our booth in support!

This summit is all about you – helping you learn, grow, and achieve even greater success in the year ahead. I can’t wait to see you there, to celebrate your accomplishments, and to provide you with the tools and inspiration to reach new heights.

As we prepare for our Spring Summit and continue to push forward on key initiatives, I hope you are feeling the sincere effort we are making to listen and respond to your feedback and ideas. Together, we are building a new vision for The Joint and I am grateful to be working alongside so many talented and passionate individuals across the system.

Together we serve,

Sanjiv Razdan

Pictured (L-R): Shane Weber, Dr. Connie Thiesen, D.C., Dr. Ed Ernstrom, D.C., Sanjiv Razdan, Dr. Kevin Lees, D.C., Dr. Steve Knauf, D.C. and Alanna Williams at the Parker Seminars in Las Vegas.

Welcome Craig Sherwood, Senior Vice President of Development

We are excited to officially introduce Craig Sherwood as The Joint’s Senior Vice President of Development!

Craig has more than 25 years of executivelevel experience in global franchise development, particularly in the health and wellness and quick-service restaurant industries. Most recently, Craig was the Chief Development Officer at Lumin Fitness, an AI-powered fitness start-up company. He has also previously served in executive roles at Wingstop, Little Caesar’s, Gold’s Gym and Sonic, and his expertise spans across all aspects of franchising, including recruitment, market planning, real estate strategy, site selection and design and construction.

Craig is excited to drive The Joint’s growth throughout the country through his strategic approach to franchising and his collaborative leadership style. He also recognizes how The Joint is redefining access to quality healthcare and helping people feel and live better every day and is looking forward to being part of our mission-driven vision.

Craig also served as First Lieutenant, 3D Infantry Division in the United States Army. He earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in Government from St. Lawrence University, then received his law degree at William Mitchell College of Law.

Craig and his wife Kathy have two adult children and a two-year-old grandson. He and his wife are in the process of relocating from Dallas to the Valley, where he is looking forward to exploring the Arizona hiking trails.

Read the complete press release on Craig’s appointment 

Welcome to The Joint, Craig!

Registration Deadline: April 1

April 16, 2025

Herberger Theater Center

Phoenix, AZ Register Today!

Join Executive Leadership and other senior leaders from the CSC for an energizing one-day event that will bring our system together to drive action for the future of our business.

Franchisees and their management teams, regional developers and their teams, field operators and other trusted partners from across the system can look forward to:

• The main stage presentations on business updates, key metrics and progress on The Joint's priority initiatives that will strengthen clinic economics and reignite growth.

• Opportunities to learn directly from fellow franchisees as they present the strategies, processes and best practices that are driving their success.

• A Mainstage Q&A with the Executive Leadership Team. Get your questions ready!

• A celebration of the standout stars and top performers from our system at our annual Awards Show.

• Complimentary breakfast and lunch, plus celebrate all of our winners at the post-Awards Show cocktail reception!

It’s the first time ever that we are gathering together in back-to-back years, so don’t miss the chance to reunite with friends and colleagues, build upon our culture and bring our values to life!

Beta Bound:

The Joint’s New MVP Mobile App On Track to Begin Early Testing

Over the past few months, the Marketing, IT and Operations teams have been collaborating on developing an official mobile app for The Joint, and the first iteration of the app is on track to begin beta testing at the end of March.

The MVP (minimum viable product) mobile app will include the following features:

• Clinic Locator: Patients will be able to search for the clinic nearest to them through a map-based function that is easy to navigate.

• Doctor In Clinic: Displays the doctors that are working in a particular clinic that day. This functionality will be built into AXIS.

• In-Clinic Check In: In lieu of scanning their key tag, patients can check in for their adjustment and be entered into the queue via the mobile app. This feature uses geofencing so that the option to check in becomes available to the patient once they are within a certain proximity of the clinic.

• Push Notifications: Opportunity to send basic notifications to patients about promotions, clinic news, and more.

On March 31, a select group of CSC associates will begin preliminary testing of the mobile app to thoroughly evaluate and finalize a definitive in-clinic process for both patients and clinic teams.

Then, we will expand to franchisees and clinic teams through an invite-only “Friends and Family” beta test. Stay tuned for additional details!

In today’s advanced digital landscape, a brand’s mobile app creates an improved customer experience, increases engagement and can provide greater efficiency for both customers and staff. The Joint’s mobile app aims to accomplish these key objectives and, ultimately, become a patient’s preferred path for interacting with and visiting their local clinic.

CONGRATULATIONS

to these February clinic openings

DR. AHMED MIGDADI, D.C., DR. GARRETT ABADOM, D.C. & DR. VICTOR ABADOM, D.C. (Salisbury, MD)

DR. MATTHEW BASILIO, D.C. (Lafayette, CO)

BARRY GOODMAN & DR. CHRISTINA JUDON, D.C. (Clarksville, TN)

SHANE WEBER & KATHY AND DR. AZAD BHATT, M.D. (Ocoee, FL)

TOTAL CLINICS OPEN: 970 FRANCHISED UNITS: 847

GO Elite: A New Level of Best in Class for Grand Openings

There are no GO Elite or honorable mention clinics during the period of February 6, 2025 to March 5, 2025.

Long Time TJC Chiropractor Opens First Clinic

After 10 years as a chiropractor for The Joint, Dr. Matt Basilio, D.C. now has a new title: franchisee

Dr. Basilio’s first job as a licensed chiropractor was at one of The Joint’s clinics in San Diego. Last month, he successfully opened The Joint Chiropractic – Lafayette CO surrounded by family, friends… and a half foot of snow! Also joining the ribbon cutting was Katey McNeil, Executive Director of the Lafayette Chamber of Commerce.

Congratulations Dr. Basilio!

Dr. Matthew Basilio, D.C. celebrates with family, friends and colleagues at the official ribbon cutting ceremony for The Joint Chiropractic - Lafayette CO.

Spring into Social: Content Ideas to Elevate Local Social Media Efforts in April

April is filled with opportunities to engage your local community through relevant, timely content. With themes and key dates like Stress Awareness Month, National Pickleball Month, and National Walking Day, this is a great time to share wellness tips, highlight the benefits of chiropractic care, and encourage healthy habits.

Key Dates and Lifestyle Themes

• April 2 – National Walking Day: Encourage movement by sharing the benefits of walking for spinal health. Feature a DC demonstrating posture-friendly walking techniques.

• April 4 – National Vitamin C Day: Educate followers on the importance of Vitamin C for overall health and its role in reducing inflammation.

• April 7-13 – The Masters: Post chiropractic tips for golfers to improve swing mechanics and prevent injuries.

• April 15 – Tax Day: Encourage self-care by reminding followers to take a moment to unwind and relieve stress after filing taxes.

Click here  for sample posts, fresh content ideas and more!

Clinic Spotlight: The Joint Chiropractic – Natomas (CA)

Find them on Instagram: @thejointnatomas

This month, we’re shining a spotlight on The Joint Chiropractic – Natomas (CA) ! Their local social media strategy is effectively engaging followers, educating their community, and fostering strong patient connections. Here’s what they’re doing right:

• Leveraging Trending Audios: They stay culturally relevant by incorporating popular audio into short-form videos, creatively connecting them to chiropractic care at The Joint.

• Their "Question of the Day" series tackles common chiropractic misconceptions, making complex topics easy to understand while keeping content fun and interactive. They also highlight The Joint’s core values—affordable, accessible, and quality chiropractic care—to reinforce the benefits of routine adjustments.

• Strong Engagement & Community Interaction: The clinic’s strong like-to-comment ratio shows that their posts are sparking meaningful conversations and followers are actively engaging and sharing their experiences about chiropractic care.

Through creative content, strong engagement, and a commitment to educating their audience, The Joint Chiropractic – Natomas has built a thriving online community. Keep up the great work, Natomas!

Phoenix Co-op Featured as Lead Sponsor of Grand Canyon University Men’s Basketball

On February 22, it was “Lopes Up!” for the Phoenix Co-op which served as the presenting sponsor of the Grand Canyon University (GCU) men’s basketball homecoming game versus California Baptist.

As the game’s presenting sponsor, The Joint was featured prominently throughout the arena for the 7,200 fans in attendance and during the TV broadcast on FOX 10 Xtra, Phoenix’s local FOX affiliate.

• Rotating digital signage featuring “Where Champions Align” messaging.

• 3-minute long pregame interview with Josh Grove, Senior Director of Media & Clinic Marketing.

• The Joint logo featured in opening graphic and second half graphic on the FOX 10 Xtra broadcast.

• Presentation of the game ball at center court prior to tipoff.

• T-shirt giveaway featuring The Joint’s logo.

Thank you to the Phoenix-area franchisees and their families that joined us at this exciting event, including Dr. Adam Wagner, D.C., Rhonda and Dr. Justin Brandau, D.C., Dr. Lance Tingey, D.C., and Dr. Chris Judge, D.C.!

The Joint announced a sponsorship agreement with GCU Athletics in October after being named the official chiropractor of the Lopes for a two-year term. The Joint is the official chiropractic partner of more than 15 professional sports and collegiate athletic programs across the country.

Interested in learning more about a local sports sponsorship? Contact Tyler Brandt, Franchise Marketing Manager – West, at tyler.brandt@thejoint. com or Jessica Kraszeski, Franchise Marketing Manager – East, at jessica.kraszeski@thejoint.com

Colorado Doctor and PC Shares Benefits of Chiropractic on Local Morning Show

Dr. Ryan Baack, D.C. joined “Great Day Colorado” on March 10 to share how regular chiropractic care can improve posture, the immune system and relieve pain and headaches. During the four-minute segment, Dr. Baack educated viewers on The Joint’s convenience and affordability and walked through the process of receiving your first adjustment.

Video footage accompanied Dr. Baack’s interview and featured Dr. Kate Amborski, D.C. from The Joint Chiropractic – Downtown Denver at Market Station giving an adjustment. The segment concludes with a mention of an exclusive offer available at Colorado clinic locations.

Watch the complete interview 

Great work Dr. Baack and congratulations to the Colorado franchisees for executing this local media segment!

OPERATIONS TOOLS + RESOURCES

New Medical Records Release Form Now Available

A new version of the Medical Records Release Form is now available to download on Dokshop and FranConnect. The updated version must be utilized in clinics beginning on April 1.

Download the Medical Records Release Form on Dokshop 

Download the Medical Records Release Form on FranConnect 

 Questions? Please contact Brenda Aguilar, Manager of Compliance, at brenda.aguilar@thejoint.com

FRANCHISEES

Need a Refresher on Available Financial Insight Tools?

In this webinar recording, The Unit Economics Project Team explores how to use the three MicroStrategy tools centered on financial wellness: the Cash Flow Calculator, the Labor Calculator and the Break Even Analysis.

Download the full recording on FranConnect 

View the presentation slides only 

 Questions? Please contact Rachel Sokocevic, Senior Manager of Operations Services, at rachel.sokocevic@thejoint.com

DC Profile: Dr. Jametra Frank, D.C.

The Joint Chiropractic – Spring Creek (TX)

Dr. Jametra Frank, D.C. has always had a strong passion for helping people and a belief in the power of the body to heal itself. A career in chiropractic offered a unique way to support the healing process through natural, holistic treatments without relying on medications or invasive procedures.

She received her bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from McNeese State University, then achieved her Doctor of Chiropractic degree at Texas Chiropractic College in 2022. She started at The Joint in January 2023 and appreciates the commitment to providing high-quality, affordable chiropractic care that is accessible to individuals who may not have otherwise experienced its benefits.

“I am committed to providing high-quality care by demonstrating empathy, continuously expanding my knowledge of new treatment protocols, and educating patients on budget-friendly tools they can use at home to support their journey to a pain-free life,” says Dr. Frank.

Dr. Frank specializes in the Diversified Technique, Activator Method, Thompson Drop-Table Technique, and Active Release Technique. This combination of hands-on and instrument-assisted adjustments allows her to provide precise, effective care tailored to each patient's needs.

In her spare time, Dr. Frank enjoys spending time with her dogs and being outside in nature. She also loves relaxing and catching up with family and friends.

THE JOINT IN THE NEWS

As the Public Relations team continues to curate and strengthen relationships with editors and writers, The Joint is receiving direct requests to contribute to articles as an expert resource. Sleep remains a priority topic and Dr. Kevin Lees, D.C., Director of Chiropractic Operations, is featured in articles on mattresses, pillows and sleeping positions. He has also provided commentary on psoriatic arthritis, brain health and finding relief for chronic pain.

Dr. Lees Contributes to Woman’s World Article on Psoriatic Arthritis Treatments

In a recent online article from Woman’s World , Dr. Lees provides his expert opinion on ways to minimize psoriatic arthritis symptoms, especially through diet, skincare habits and lowering stress. The article reached 1.3 million readers and was syndicated an additional 20 times in local markets, such as Sacramento, Charlotte and Dallas, and generated another 10 million impressions.

Read the complete article 

Health.com Includes The Joint as Sleep Expert

Dr. Lees was an expert consultant for Health. com’s roundup of the top mattresses for back pain and the only chiropractor that contributed. The article reached nearly 13 million readers.

NOW AVAILABLE IN THE LEARNING CENTER TRAINING DEVELOPMENT

Stroke Awareness

The Stroke Awareness course is now available in The Learning Center (TLC). This course is mandatory for DCs. All DCs have been automatically enrolled and must complete this course by June 1. This course is also available for self-enrollment for nonchiropractors.

To enroll, visit The Learning Center (TLC) > Catalog > Chiropractic Care (Doctors Only)

Elevate Existing Patient Experiences (for WCs)

Building rapport with existing patients ensures they feel valued and connected to their care and treatment plan.

Challenge

As you greet patients today, challenge yourself to engage with at least five existing patients beyond a simple “hello”. Depending on if the patient is an existing prospect or a member, you may handle the interaction differently.

Below are some tips and example scripting to help guide your conversations:

Existing Prospects

✔ Welcome the patient back enthusiastically and acknowledge their lapse in visits.

✔ Ask the patient if anything has changed since their last visit. Depending on the length of the gap in care, they also may need to update their forms.

✔ Remind the patient of the benefits of regular care.

Example Script:

“Welcome back! We haven’t seen you in a while, how are things going?”

“Have you recently been involved in any auto accidents or work injuries?...Since it’s been a minute since your last visit, we’ll have you update some forms so that you have the best visit possible with the doctor.”

“Remember, regular visits can help keep you feeling your best.”

Members

✔ Celebrate and encourage patients who are following their treatment plan.

✔ Reinforce the benefits the patient has experienced to keep them on track.

✔ If the patient is not coming in regularly, encourage them to use the visits on their plan.

Example Script:

“You’re doing a great job of being consistent and regularly coming in!”

“You’ve been really consistent! Most patients that come in as often as you find that chiropractic is really changing their life!”

“You have three more visits in your cycle until the 19th. Make sure you continue following the doctors recommendations so you keep feeling your best.”

Questions? Contact training@thejoint.com

TRAINING TOOLS + RESOURCES

FRANCHISEES + MANAGERS

Training Rollout Guides

In The Learning Center, franchisees and managers within a franchise organization can access Training Rollout Guides. Each guide outlines the intended audience, the type of content and enrollment and completion requirements for a particular course or curriculum. In addition, the guides provide strategies and best practices for a successful learning experience.

To locate the Training Rollout Guides, follow the steps outlined below:

• Log into The Learning Center.

• Open the Resources section and navigate to Business, Marketing, Operations > Operations > Leadership.

• Select the Training Rollout Guide and click Open.

 Questions? Please contact training@thejoint.com

Chiropractic Connections: Building the Brand Across the Country

In March, The Joint was a Silver Sponsor at three regional events hosted by the American Black Chiropractic Association (ABCA). This was the first time that the brand has partnered with the ABCA.

During each event, The Joint was able to connect with hundreds of Black chiropractic students, doctors and other industry professionals. In particular, we shared that The Joint is an ideal fit for new graduates looking to start their chiropractic career because it helps build confidence, enhance communication skills with patients and sharpen clinical skills.

UPCOMING EVENTS

• March 20-22: Parker Seminars (Las Vegas, NV)

• April 11-13: New Mexico Chiropractic Association Convention (Albuquerque, NM)

• April 17: Life West Career Fair (Hayward, CA)

• April 17: University of Western States Career Fair (Portland, OR)

• April 30-May 3: Sherman Golf Outing and Lyceum (Spartanburg, SC)

• May 1-3: Logan University Symposium (St. Louis, MO)

If you are interested in participating in an upcoming event, please contact careers@thejoint.com

While participation is on a first come, first serve basis, all leads will be shared after each event.

Pictured (L-R): Dr. Michael Kemper, D.C. from The Joint Chiropractic – Torrance (CA) and Dr. Offy Kalu, D.C. of The Joint Chiropractic –West Hollywood (CA) represent the brand at the ABCA Western Regional Conference.

Pictured (L-R): Dr. Kirsten Shepard, D.C. (Fundraiser Chairman of the ABCA), Dr. Shereffa Clark, D.C. (Vice President of the ABCA), Angela Gathings (RD Operations Manager) and Natosha Hubbard at the SABCA Central Regional Conference in Houston.

TRAINING TOOLS + RESOURCES

Chiropractic 101 Curriculum

Chiropractic 101 is designed for WCs and non-doctor team members to gain a foundational understanding of what chiropractic is, the impact it has and how to communicate the basics to others. The three courses in the curriculum include Introduction to Chiropractic, Anatomy & Adjustments and Patient Communication Strategies.

To self-enroll, log into The Learning Center, open the Catalog and navigate to Business, Marketing, Operations > Operations > Front Office. Locate the course and click enroll.

WCs and non-doctors should work with their manager to determine if and when to take this training.

 Questions? Please contact training@thejoint.com

WC Sales Series

The WC Sales Series is designed to support Wellness Coordinators as they work to develop their sales skills. Each course focuses on a specific piece of the sales process and includes best practices and tips on how to improve in that area. There are two courses: Asking for the Sale and Handling Objections.

The courses are optional and learners will find value based on their level of experience.

To self-enroll, log into The Learning Center, open the Catalog and navigate to Business, Marketing, Operations > Operations > Front Office. Locate the course and click enroll.

 Questions? Please contact training@thejoint.com

MARKETING + PUBLIC RELATIONS TOOLS + RESOURCES

Social Media Influencer Guide

Interested in leveraging a social media influencer from your local market? The Joint has developed resource guides to help franchisees and co-ops source and evaluate a local influencer.

• Social Media Influencer Guide: Includes guidelines for reaching out to local influencers, best practices for compensating influencers and sample messaging and collaboration ideas.

• Working With The Joint Chiropractic: A guide that can be provided to influencers upon entering into a partnership. It covers partnership expectations, including best practices for authentically portraying their in-clinic experience to their followers.

 Questions? Please contact Heather Zielinski, Senior Content Manager, at heather.zielinski@thejoint.com

Crisis Communications Protocol

The Joint’s Crisis Communications Protocol provides a step-by-step overview to help mitigate a potential PR incident.

Download the Crisis Communications Protocol on FranConnect 

As a reminder, only authorized Corporate spokespersons are allowed to speak to the media and only the Corporate Public Relations Department can approve any media video filming or photography in-clinic.

 Questions? Contact Margie Wojciechowski, Director of Public Relations & Communications, at margie.wojciechowski@thejoint.com

WC Profile: Debra Arana

Operations Manager for five clinics in Florida

Debra began working at The Joint Chiropractic – Dr. Phillips (FL) as a Wellness Coordinator in May 2022, bringing over 15 years of private practice chiropractic experience. Now, three years later, she is Operations Manager, overseeing five clinics for Kathy and Dr. Azad Bhatt, M.D.

“Debra is a lifelong ambassador for chiropractic care and its benefits,” says franchisee Kathy Bhatt. “She loves engaging with patients and empowering the staff on patient care and operations. She also supports our doctors on the process and continuity of care per The Joint’s model.”

Her engaging, respectful demeanor has positively impacted patients as well as clinic teams, and her “always on” approach means that Debra frequently goes out of her way to help a patient or colleague. In one instance, the front door lock broke at a clinic during closing, so Debra drove across town to relieve the WC and wait for the locksmith to arrive. At Christmas, Debra sent a gift signed by all of the WCs in the Bhatt organization to their overseas virtual assistant so that he felt included. She often holds WC meetings at local parks to discuss topics, then have fun and team build.

“Working in the chiropractic industry is incredibly rewarding because it allows me to be part of a profession that genuinely improves people’s lives,” says Debra.

“Every day I get to witness, firsthand, how chiropractic care helps patients find relief from pain, regain mobility, and improve their overall wellbeing.”

Debra loves spending time with her four children and they spend a great deal of time enjoying the outdoors together, including hiking with her sons, moonlight paddleboarding or enjoying a warm, sandy beach with her daughters.

February Leaderboard Metrics

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

TOP 10 SALES PERFORMERS MIDLAND

$148,815