Can you be and ND and not write?
I write a couple of columns and I'm perpetually working on a book. The vast majority of alternative writing doesn't make it mainstream because a huge number of NDs self-publish or the book only gets a small printing because it is so technical. But patients do provide a constant source of irritation/inspiration to research more. Without them, it is easy to become a bit fanatic about some theory that really doesn't work for everyone.
I hope this is helpful.