TABLE OF CONTENTS | Volume 1 , Issue 3

FEATURES

Happy 129th Birthday Chiropractic!

Celebrate the history of the profession, as OneChiropractic sets to ushering in a new era of service and healing through Chiropractic.

By OneChiropractic

Rebuttal to Anti-Chiropractic Claims

Recent media coverage surrounding an isolated case of a chiropractic patient, Rigel Darkmoore, has rekindled concerns about the safety of chiropractic neck adjustments. While the individual’s unfortunate experience merits attention, it’s crucial for the medical community to approach these claims with a balanced, data-driven perspective.

By Bharon Hoag

Health Mission

Health Missions has been a OneChiropractic project since 2021. Dr. Joseph Esposito, co-founder of Health Missions and AlignLife, tells us more about leading a party of 11 to Colombia in May…

By Dr. Joe Esposito 

Sponsored Content

About Us

The State of Chiropractic is a groundbreaking peer-to-peer journal covering the intersection of law, policy, and the practice of chiropractic. Owned and operated by OneChiropractic, our primary audience is licensed chiropractic practitioners and includes graduates and students of accredited chiropractic colleges around the world; manufacturers, distributors, retailers, and researchers of the nutraceutical and natural products industries; and patients and advocates of chiropractic.

EDITORIAL CONTENT & AUTHORSHIP

Contributed articles must be original, previously unpublished, and written by practitioners with a chiropractic degree from an accredited program.

Topic areas may include:

• Chiropractic philosophy
• Practice building and business management
• Abstracts and reviews
• Discussions about the practice of chiropractors
• Public/media relations and networking
• Technologies that make practices more efficient and profitable
• Current trends and issues that affect chiropractic in your area
• News, announcements, and event notices
• Educational and grassroots programs that further the chiropractic cause
• Any other trend, event, or development you believe is pertinent to the profession

DOWNLOAD: The State of Chiropractic Submission Guidelines

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
The State of Chiropractic welcomes thoughts and opinions from our readers via email at [email protected]

Volume 1, Issue 2

DIRECTOR OF STRATEGIC RELATIONS
Stephanie Fogelson

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS
Erica Michaels

CONTACT US
[email protected]

OneChiropractic
5730 Traditions Drive
New Albany, OH 43054

Thanks to our sponsors for supporting the efforts of One Chiropractic and its member entities – The Chiropractic Defense Council, Health Missions, and Operation Backbone

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and specific other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law. For permission requests, write to the publisher, addressed “Attention: Permissions Coordinator,” at the address above.

The State of Chiropractic contains general legal information. Said legal information is not advice and should not be treated as such. You must not rely on the information in this book as an alternative to professional legal advice from your lawyer or other professional legal provider. If you have any specific questions about any legal matter, you should consult your lawyer or other professional legal provider. You should never delay seeking legal advice, disregard legal advice or discontinue legal services because of the information in this publication.

We are at a crossroads. The profession faces hurdles that not only threaten its growth but also its very existence. Misconceptions abound, legislative restrictions loom, and insurance barriers hinder patient access. Amid these challenges, the power to shape the future of chiropractic lies within our own community. By organizing and harnessing the energy of a grassroots movement, we can advocate for our profession, educate the public, and secure our place in the broader healthcare system.

Understanding Our Challenges

Dr. Emily Thompson had been practicing chiropractic care for over a decade when she noticed a disturbing trend. Despite her patients’ successes and the growing body of evidence supporting chiropractic treatments, she encountered increasing skepticism from both the public and policymakers. Stories like Dr. Thompson’s are not uncommon. Many chiropractors face legislative efforts aimed at limiting their scope of practice, often fueled by misunderstandings or lack of awareness about the profession’s benefits.

These challenges are compounded by internal divisions. Differing philosophies and approaches can fragment our community, making it difficult to present a united front. Moreover, inconsistent standards in education and practice may confuse patients and policymakers, further undermining our credibility.

The Power of Grassroots Movements

History has shown that when ordinary people unite around a common cause, extraordinary change can occur. Consider the Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s in the United States. What began as small gatherings in churches and community centers blossomed into a nationwide call for equality and justice. Leaders like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. galvanized support through passionate speeches and nonviolent protests, ultimately leading to significant legislative changes such as the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

Similarly, the environmental movement gained momentum in the 1970s when citizens became increasingly aware of pollution and its impacts. Grassroots organizations like Greenpeace started with a handful of activists and grew into international forces advocating for environmental protection, influencing policies, and raising global awareness about ecological issues.

These examples illustrate that grassroots movements can shift public perception, influence legislation, and create lasting change. They are driven by the collective efforts of individuals who are passionate, persistent, and committed to a shared vision.

Building Our Movement

To create a successful grassroots movement within chiropractic, we must first look inward. Organizing is paramount. We need open dialogues where practitioners can share experiences, challenges, and ideas without fear of judgment. Dr. Thompson, inspired by her challenges, organized monthly meetings with local chiropractors to discuss common issues and brainstorm solutions. These gatherings fostered a sense of community and laid the groundwork for collective action.

Education is another critical component. By informing the public about the benefits and safety of chiropractic care, we can dispel myths and build trust. Hosting community workshops, participating in health fairs, and leveraging media opportunities allow us to reach broader audiences. Dr. Thompson began offering free monthly seminars at the local library, covering topics from spinal health to holistic wellness. These events not only educated attendees but also humanized the profession, putting a face to chiropractic care.

Building alliances strengthens our position. Collaborating with other healthcare professionals, such as physical therapists, nutritionists, and mental health experts, can enhance patient care and present a united front in advocating for integrative health approaches. Dr. Thompson partnered with a local yoga studio and a nutritionist to host a wellness retreat, highlighting how different modalities can work together for optimal health.

Advocacy is essential. Engaging with lawmakers and participating in the legislative process ensures our voices are heard. By presenting evidence-based research and patient testimonials, we can influence policies that affect our practice. Dr. Thompson joined her state’s chiropractic association’s advocacy committee, attending hearings, and meeting with legislators to discuss the importance of chiropractic services in healthcare.

Learning from Historical Movements

The suffragette movement offers another poignant example of grassroots activism leading to monumental change. In the early 20th century, women across the globe fought tirelessly for the right to vote. They organized rallies, penned persuasive articles, and even faced imprisonment for their actions. Their unwavering dedication culminated in significant legal victories, such as the passage of the 19th Amendment in the United States, granting women the right to vote in 1920.

The anti-apartheid movement in South Africa is yet another testament to the power of grassroots efforts. Starting as small acts of defiance against racial segregation, it grew into a global campaign that included boycotts, protests, and international sanctions. Leaders like Nelson Mandela became symbols of resistance and hope. The movement ultimately led to the dismantling of apartheid and the establishment of a democratic government.

These movements share common threads: passionate individuals, a clear vision, strategic organization, and relentless pursuit of their goals. They faced immense obstacles but remained steadfast, illustrating that grassroots movements can overcome even the most entrenched systems.

Overcoming Obstacles

As we build our movement, we must be prepared to face and overcome obstacles. Skepticism, both from within and outside our profession, can hinder progress. Transparency in our intentions and actions is crucial. By openly communicating our goals and demonstrating how they benefit not just chiropractors but the broader community, we can build trust.

Misinformation poses another significant challenge. Actively correcting false narratives with evidence-based information is essential. This includes engaging with critics constructively, providing them with research and data that support the efficacy and safety of chiropractic care.

Inclusivity strengthens our movement. Embracing chiropractors from diverse backgrounds and specialties enriches our collective perspective and demonstrates unity. By valuing different viewpoints and approaches, we create a more robust and adaptable community.

Embracing the Digital Age

In today’s interconnected world, digital platforms offer powerful tools for organizing and amplifying our message. Social media can be used to share success stories, promote events, and engage with both supporters and skeptics. Dr. Thompson started a blog where she shares patient experiences (with their permission) and discusses recent research in chiropractic care. Her posts have attracted readers from across the country, many of whom express gratitude for shedding light on topics they previously knew little about.

Online forums and groups provide spaces for chiropractors to collaborate, share resources, and offer support. Virtual conferences and webinars can reach practitioners who might not be able to attend in-person events, fostering a sense of global community.

A Vision for the Future

Imagine a future where chiropractic care is seamlessly integrated into mainstream healthcare, where patients readily access our services without financial or legislative barriers, and where our profession is recognized for its contributions to holistic health and wellness. Achieving this vision requires collective effort, strategic planning, and unwavering commitment.

Drawing inspiration from historical grassroots movements, we can see that change is possible when individuals unite behind a common cause. The journey may be challenging, but the potential rewards—a stronger profession, better patient outcomes, and a more inclusive healthcare system—are well worth the effort.

Conclusion

The challenges facing chiropractic care are significant, but they are not insurmountable. By building a grassroots movement, we empower ourselves to advocate for our profession, educate the public, and influence policy. Like Dr. Thompson and countless others who have taken the first steps, each of us has a role to play in shaping the future of chiropractic.

Let us take inspiration from the past, learn from the successes of those who have walked similar paths, and commit to working together. The power to defend and advance our profession lies within our collective hands. Now is the time to act, to unite, and to create a lasting impact that will benefit not only ourselves but generations of chiropractors and patients to come.

Mobilizing the Chiropractic Defense Council for Global Advocacy

BHARON HOAG

Bharon Hoag’s Tour in Australia: Mobilizing the Chiropractic Defense Council for Global Advocacy

The Chiropractic Defense Council (CDC) has a long-standing commitment to safeguarding chiropractic care across the globe, and recently, Australia has become a critical battleground for the profession. In a series of townhalls, CDC Executive Director Bharon Hoag rallied chiropractors in Australia, calling to organize and take action in the face of increasing threats to chiropractic practice. Hoag’s tour showcases the CDC’s unwavering commitment to defending the profession, mobilizing globally when chiropractic care is under attack, and advocating for the right to treat patients of all ages.

Chiropractic in Australia: A Historical Battle

The chiropractic profession in Australia has a deep-rooted history, dating back to 1907 when Mrs. Barbara Blake, a Palmer College-trained chiropractor, established the first chiropractic practice in the country. For over a century, chiropractic care remained unrestricted for people of all ages, thriving as an essential health service. However, in 2019, this legacy faced an unprecedented challenge when legislative actions placed severe restrictions on chiropractic treatment for children under 2.

These restrictions were driven by unsubstantiated claims from an ill-informed State Health Minister, sparked by two YouTube videos showing chiropractors conducting conventional infant examinations. The ensuing media frenzy and backlash from the medical community further fueled the attack on pediatric chiropractic care. This uproar persisted despite the Safer Care Victoria (SCV) Review, which received 22,000 public submissions, with 99.7% providing positive feedback and no identified harm related to chiropractic care for children.

For years, the profession endured these restrictions, with the Council of Australian Governments-Health Ministers Council maintaining the limitations. Yet, in November 2023, a major victory was achieved when the restrictions were suddenly lifted following intense pressure from the Australian Chiropractic Association (ACA), the CDC and the Patrons of Chiropractic Science (PCS). This monumental success demonstrated the power of organized advocacy and legal mobilization. However, just months after this win, political forces reinstated the restrictions, once again leaving chiropractors with restrictions on treating children under 2.

CDC’s Commitment: Mobilizing for Global Action

During his townhall tour, Bharon Hoag emphasized the CDC’s role in mobilizing on a global scale when chiropractic care is under siege. “When the profession is under attack, we mobilize with boots on the ground to advocate globally for your right to practice,” Hoag told the Australian chiropractors. His message was clear: the fight for chiropractic care requires immediate and organized responses, and it cannot be sustained by the efforts of a small minority of chiropractors.

Currently, only 1% of the profession is dedicated to defending chiropractic. Hoag’s vision, however, is much larger: “Imagine what we could achieve with 10,000 chiropractors championing the profession.” With increased participation, the CDC’s ability to challenge these unjust restrictions and protect chiropractic care would be exponentially stronger. Hoag’s tour not only informs but inspires—a call to arms for chiropractors to engage in the defense of their profession.

Tour Dates and Locations

Bharon Hoag’s tour covered key regions across Australia, providing chiropractors the opportunity to hear firsthand about the CDC’s mission and how they can become involved in the fight for their right to practice. Here are the stops on his tour:

• ACA Conference, Cairns
• Sunshine Coast
• Perth
• Adelaide
• Melbourne CBD
• Melbourne
• Sydney

CDC Position Statement: Defending Children’s Right to Care

The CDC and the ACA have strongly opposed the restrictions placed on chiropractic care for children, describing them as baseless and driven by media hysteria rather than scientific evidence. The Safer Care Victoria Review provided an overwhelming show of support from the public, yet political forces have disregarded this feedback, choosing to side with unfounded claims.

In their official position statement, the CDC and ACA stress that these restrictions have caused significant financial losses for chiropractic practices and, more importantly, limited access to chiropractic care for children who benefit from it. They argue that these limitations harm both patients and providers, restricting families’ health care choices. “The SCV Review showed no evidence of harm, and the overwhelming positive feedback from the public cannot be ignored,” Hoag noted during his townhall addresses.

A Global Legal Challenge on the Horizon

The CDC is not backing down. Armed with a successful track record of legal victories, the organization is preparing a significant legal challenge to the restrictions in Australia. This case has the potential to set a global precedent, impacting how chiropractic care is regulated around the world. In mobilizing for this challenge, the CDC is calling on chiropractors worldwide to document and publish case studies that provide evidence of chiropractic efficacy, particularly in pediatric care.

Hoag’s townhalls have made it clear: this is a fight for the very future of chiropractic. “If we lose this battle in Australia, it will have ripple effects across the globe. But if we win, we set a new standard for the world.”

Join the Fight: The Power of Collective Action

Bharon Hoag’s message to chiropractors is simple: organization is essential. The profession cannot afford to rely on a small group to defend its future. Now is the time for chiropractors to step up, engage, and support the organizations fighting on their behalf. The stakes are high, but with collective action, the future of chiropractic care can be secured.

The CDC urges chiropractors to contribute to the body of evidence supporting chiropractic efficacy and to join the movement to protect the right to practice without unjust restrictions. By working together, chiropractors can ensure that patients of all ages, from infants to seniors, continue to benefit from holistic, non-invasive care that has been proven to improve lives.

For more information on how to get involved, review submission guidelines, attend a townhall, or contribute to the CDC’s global advocacy efforts, visit Chiropractic Defense Council’s website.

Health Missions, our 501(c3), builds on the success of the May trip to Colombia with the announcement of 2025 missions.

Dr. Bryne Willey and his wife, Kellie, traveled to Colombia in May on the most recent Health Missions trip. The pair sat down and discussed the experience. They explain what the trip meant to them as individuals and as husband and wife.

“That trip was a huge deal on multiple fronts,” said Dr. Bryne of AlignLife of Springfield Chiropractic & Natural Health Center in Illinois. “One of the biggest parts of it was the time, energy, and focus Kellie put into getting that first trip off the ground.”

Kellie was integral to the success of the Health Missions trip, liaising with the team on the ground, co-founder Dr. Joseph Esposito, and the team at OneChiropractic for months before the group of chiropractors and family members that joined them there landed in Colombia for the week-long trip.

“I knew all the finely tuned highlights and details and special pieces coordinated to make it such an amazing trip,” said Dr. Bryne. “Her excitement made me more excited to be involved.”

The couple have four children Drake, 3, Mia, 5, Annie, 6, and Ava 11. “The other big part was knowing we were leaving our four kids behind and sacrificing on multiple fronts to make that happen. Time with our kids is so precious. Knowing all the coordinating that went into us being able to leave brought a lot of weight to our purpose on that trip and how we wanted to serve,” said Dr. Bryne.

The mission trip was Dr. Bryne’s first time traveling out of the US. “I just remember being very present in the moment the week we were there. I’ve never been out of the country, let alone serving in these under-served and impoverished areas without expectation of exchange from them,” he said.

Dr. Bryne said the generosity they received was never-ending.

“I remember being overwhelmed by how they felt the need to show their gratitude in any way they could. I learned a lot about receiving and giving love even when there is a language barrier.”

Dr. Bryne and Kellie, an elementary school teacher turned stay-at-home mom, loved how inclusive the people they visited were with multiple generations in their families and not siloed into different homes.

“It made us appreciate our family, the impact we can make, and the blessings we have received. We had extensive conversations about how we want to raise our kids in an environment when they’re not just learning and growing from us as their parents, but they’re grandparents and aunts and uncles and cousins,” said Dr. Bryne.

The mission trip also positively impacted the continued growth of their marriage.

“It also served as a galvanizing trip for us as a couple to reconnect. I know we had a renewed appreciation for how each other cares for other human beings and the gifts given to express that level of servant-heartedness. We got to see each other serve a purpose and a mission bigger than us as individuals, a couple, a family, and a practice,” said Dr. Bryne.

Dr. Bryne was further inspired by the health journeys of the people he met and treated in Colombia. “And it also challenged us to reconsider how we can best in most effectively make a bigger impact through chiropractic to those who desperately are seeking it and want it and need it.”

For Kellie, the trip began almost a year before setting foot in Colombia. “As Bryne mentioned, we spent quite a long time discussing, planning, and fine-tuning this trip. It was a pleasure to work together with Dr. Joseph and Jose Ruben. It was unique to plan this from different parts of the world (Ecuador, Puerto Rico, and Illinois) and then come together in Colombia to execute an unforgettable experience,” she said.

She said that their families were concerned about the level of danger involved in a trip to Colombia, but they were able to put their minds at ease.

“We prayed about it and felt convicted to see it through. We knew that this trip was an opportunity to show God’s love with a servant heart,” said Kellie. “This trip also taught us that things are not always as they seem. As a country, Colombia is talked about as a place we should not travel to because it is dangerous. The people we met were welcoming, warm, joyful, and gracious. I have taken many notes on hospitality from them.”

Kellie said that when she closes her eyes and thinks back on the trip, a flood of images fill her mind, but there is always one she will stop and hover on. “It is of Bryne in the small village of Puerto Sumaria. A town with one road that is made of dirt, where the chiropractic tables are lined on a hot and sticky day. Everyone in the village gathered to be cared for on this dirt road. The image of a man lying on his stomach on Bryne’s adjusting table, his feet thick with calluses and dirt from the work that he does on the hilly terrain. And when I look over, Bryne is holding his feet without judgment or hesitation as he assessed this man with care.” Kellie said it is in moments like this and many others during this trip that she knew she and Dr. Bryne were where they were supposed to be. “I think it’s safe to say that this trip changed our mindset and renewed passions in our hearts.

“I highly recommend couples considering a mission trip with their spouse. The fruits of your labor will live on in your hearts and the communities you serve. It’s an incredible experience as an individual but even more meaningful to do together.”

Health Missions

Health Missions was established by AlignLife founder Dr. Joseph Esposito and his sister, Dr. Cristina Esposito, in 2004 in memory of their father. Health Missions became a OneChiropractic project in 2021.

Colombia was the fourth trip for Health Missions but the first for OneChiropractic. Health Missions has also served communities in South Africa, Mexico, and Ecuador.

The 501(c3) sent a group of 11, including six chiropractors from Illinois, Puerto Rico, Michigan, Florida, and Missouri to Colombia in May. The six chiropractors treated more than 200 individuals during the trip.

Health Missions will travel to Colombia from March 30 to April 5 in 2025 to further build a foundation for chiropractic growth. There is a mission trip to Peru from May 5 to May 11 next year. For more information about Health Missions, visit onechiropractic.org/health-missions/

About the Author

Joseph Esposito, DC, CCN

Dr. Joseph Esposito, DC, CCN, stands at the forefront of wellness healthcare as a visionary chiropractor dedicated to enhancing community well-being. Through his pivotal role at Health Missions, a 501(c)3 organization committed to the education, research, and promotion of natural healthcare, Dr. Esposito embodies high-intention, lifestyle-focused care. His mission is to empower communities nationwide to embrace the transformative benefits of a wellness lifestyle, underscoring his commitment to holistic health and natural healing practices.

On September 18, 1895, something extraordinary happened in a small town in Iowa that would forever change the landscape of healthcare. D.D. Palmer, a Canadian-born magnetic healer, performed the very first chiropractic adjustment on a man named Harvey Lillard in Davenport, Iowa. This moment marked the birth of chiropractic care as a profession and laid the foundation for over a century of innovative and patient-centered healthcare. Today, as we celebrate chiropractic’s 129th birthday, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the rich history, evolution, and enduring impact of this vital healthcare field.

The Historic Adjustment: A New Path to Healing

In the late 19th century, Harvey Lillard, a janitor who worked in the building where Palmer had his office, suffered from hearing loss. After a conversation in which Lillard revealed that his hearing had diminished after an incident in which he felt something shift in his back, Palmer became curious. Upon examining Lillard, Palmer identified what he believed to be a misalignment of the spine—what we now call a subluxation. Palmer reasoned that this misalignment might be impinging on Lillard’s nervous system and affecting his hearing.

In a bold and unprecedented move, Palmer performed what is recognized as the first-ever chiropractic adjustment. According to accounts, Lillard’s hearing improved shortly after the adjustment, and Palmer’s hypothesis about the relationship between the spine, nervous system, and overall health was solidified. This was the moment when the chiropractic profession was born, and Palmer began to develop what would become a unique approach to health and wellness focused on the spine and nervous system.

From Humble Beginnings to a Global Profession

What began as a single adjustment in 1895 has grown into a thriving global profession, with chiropractors now practicing in more than 100 countries worldwide. D.D. Palmer’s son, B.J. Palmer, often called the “Developer of Chiropractic,” played a key role in advancing the profession by refining chiropractic techniques, conducting research, and promoting the idea that spinal health is integral to overall well-being.

In 1897, B.J. Palmer established the Palmer School of Chiropractic in Davenport, which remains one of the larger chiropractic colleges in the world today. The Palmer family’s contributions laid the foundation for chiropractic care’s legitimacy and acceptance, both within the healthcare community and among patients seeking a non-invasive, drug-free approach to health.

Over the decades, chiropractic care has been widely embraced for its effectiveness in treating neuro–musculoskeletal conditions, and allowing the brain and body to properly communicate. Chiropractic techniques have continued to evolve, and research has shown the profound impact that spinal health can have on nervous system function, improving patients’ quality of life.

Chiropractic’s Principles: More Than Just Back Pain

At its core, chiropractic care is based on the principle that the body has an innate ability to heal itself, provided the nervous system is functioning optimally. Chiropractors focus on restoring alignment to the spine, which in turn allows the nervous system to function without interference. By removing these subluxations, chiropractic care facilitates the body’s natural healing processes.

While chiropractic is often associated with treating back and neck pain, the profession offers a wide array of benefits. Many patients report improved sleep, boosted immune function, and even relief from conditions like migraines and digestive issues. Chiropractic care’s emphasis on holistic wellness makes it a vital component of integrative health care.

Evidence-Based and Patient-Centered Care

Chiropractic care has continued to evolve with modern healthcare, incorporating evidence-based practices that align with patient-centered care. The field has been subject to rigorous scientific research, with numerous studies confirming its safety and effectiveness. For example, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) in 2017 highlighted spinal manipulation as an effective treatment for acute lower back pain, with fewer adverse effects than common drug treatments.

Chiropractic’s growth is also evidenced by its integration into healthcare systems around the world. Chiropractors now work alongside medical doctors, physical therapists, and other healthcare professionals to provide a multidisciplinary approach to patient care. Many hospitals and clinics now include chiropractors as part of their pain management and rehabilitation teams, and patients are increasingly seeking out chiropractic care as part of their overall wellness plans.

Chiropractic in the 21st Century

As we celebrate 129 years of chiropractic care, the profession continues to adapt to the needs of a modern world. Advances in technology, research, and patient education are helping chiropractors better serve their communities. Chiropractic care has moved beyond its origins in spinal adjustments to include preventive health, lifestyle counseling, and functional movement therapy. Chiropractors today are advocates for healthy living, emphasizing the importance of exercise, nutrition, and mindfulness in their patient care.

Moreover, chiropractic care is now recognized for its role in addressing one of the greatest health challenges of our time: the opioid crisis. By providing effective, non-pharmacological options for pain relief, chiropractic has been instrumental in helping patients avoid unnecessary reliance on pain medications, contributing to the national effort to combat opioid misuse.

The Future of Chiropractic

Looking ahead, chiropractic care is well-positioned to continue its growth and impact. The profession’s focus on whole-body health, preventive care, and natural healing aligns with the growing demand for integrative and alternative health practices. As more people seek out non-invasive, drug-free approaches to healthcare, chiropractic care will remain an essential option for those looking to optimize their health.

Today, chiropractic stands as a testament to the power of a single idea—that the body’s natural ability to heal can be enhanced by addressing the spine and nervous system. D.D. Palmer’s revolutionary first adjustment on September 18, 1895, sparked a movement that has helped millions of people worldwide regain control of their health and well-being.

One Chiropractic: Protecting the Future of the Profession

As we celebrate 129 years of chiropractic care, it’s crucial to recognize the efforts of organizations like OneChiropractic, which are dedicated to protecting and advancing the chiropractic profession. OneChiropractic plays a pivotal role in advocating for the rights of chiropractors and their patients, ensuring that chiropractic care remains accessible, protected, and respected. Through initiatives like the Chiropractic Defense Council, Health Missions, and Operation Backbone, OneChiropractic is committed to promoting the importance of chiropractic care on a global scale.

The challenges facing the profession today require unity and action, and OneChiropractic continues to be at the forefront of that movement. By defending chiropractic care from unjust regulations and supporting chiropractors in their practice, OneChiropractic ensures that the profession remains strong and continues to thrive for generations to come.

Happy Birthday, Chiropractic! Here’s to 129 years of health, wellness, and natural healing, and a special thanks to OneChiropractic for safeguarding its future for millions more to experience.

Recent media coverage surrounding an isolated case of a chiropractic patient, Rigel Darkmoore, has rekindled concerns about the safety of chiropractic neck adjustments. While the individual’s unfortunate experience merits attention, it’s crucial for the medical community to approach these claims with a balanced, data-driven perspective. Here, we will address common misconceptions about chiropractic care and provide peer-reviewed evidence to support its overall safety and efficacy.

Chiropractic Manipulation is Statistically Safe

The risk of serious complications, such as vertebral or carotid artery dissection following chiropractic cervical manipulation, is exceedingly rare. A systematic review published in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics estimates that the incidence of stroke following cervical manipulation is 1 in 5.85 million adjustments . When placed in context, these risks are comparable to those seen in many other healthcare interventions, including common medical procedures like NSAID use, which carries higher risks of gastrointestinal complications or cardiovascular events .

The American Heart Association (AHA) and American Stroke Association (ASA) also recognize the rarity of arterial dissections associated with neck manipulation, emphasizing that while they are possible, they are exceptionally uncommon and typically occur in individuals with preexisting vascular abnormalities .

Spontaneous Arterial Dissection: An Important Consideration

It’s worth noting that spontaneous arterial dissections can occur without any obvious trauma or intervention. As the Journal of the American Heart Association notes, many dissections occur during routine activities, such as turning the head quickly, sneezing, or engaging in low-risk activities like yoga . These spontaneous events are often unrelated to chiropractic care, and conflating the two may lead to unnecessary fearmongering.

In Rigel Darkmoore’s case, his long-standing tinnitus (a known symptom related to neck tension and vascular irregularities) may have contributed to the dissection, making it difficult to definitively attribute his condition solely to the chiropractic adjustment. Dissections are more commonly linked to vascular pathologies that predate any chiropractic treatment, as supported by a study published in Neurology .

Peer-Reviewed Evidence Supporting Chiropractic Benefits

Chiropractic care, particularly spinal manipulation, is recognized by many in the medical community for its efficacy in managing musculoskeletal pain. Numerous peer-reviewed studies have demonstrated the safety and effectiveness of chiropractic care, particularly for chronic lower back pain, neck pain, and headaches. According to a 2017 study published in The Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), spinal manipulation is a viable alternative for the treatment of acute lower back pain, showing significant benefit over usual medical care .

Furthermore, the Annals of Internal Medicine issued guidelines that recommend spinal manipulation as a first-line treatment for non-specific back pain due to its strong safety profile and efficacy . Chiropractic care also presents an appealing option in reducing opioid dependency by providing effective, non-pharmacological pain relief for patients, as highlighted by a 2019 study in the Journal of General Internal Medicine .

Chiropractors are Licensed Healthcare Providers with Extensive Training

Chiropractors undergo comprehensive education, including over 4,200 hours of classroom and clinical instruction, and are required to pass national and state board examinations. They are trained to screen for contraindications, such as vascular conditions, and can refer patients for appropriate imaging or specialist consultations when needed .

The notion that chiropractors are not “real doctors” is both misleading and dismissive of the extensive training and licensure process chiropractors undergo. Chiropractic is a recognized, regulated healthcare profession, and chiropractors are capable of collaborating with medical physicians in the management of patients’ musculoskeletal health .

Informed Consent and Patient Safety

As with any healthcare intervention, patient safety is paramount in chiropractic care. Licensed chiropractors are required to obtain informed consent from their patients, which includes discussing the potential benefits and risks of spinal manipulation. Patients are carefully assessed to ensure they are suitable candidates for chiropractic adjustments, particularly high-velocity neck manipulations. This mirrors the informed consent process practiced across all areas of medicine.

Additionally, a study published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine found that most patients report high levels of satisfaction with their chiropractic care, with complications being exceedingly rare .

The Media’s Role in Perpetuating Fear

While it’s understandable that patient stories like Rigel Darkmoore’s can raise concern, it’s essential to remember that media reports tend to focus on rare, sensationalized cases rather than the vast body of clinical evidence that demonstrates chiropractic care’s safety and efficacy. Physicians are encouraged to rely on peer-reviewed research and clinical guidelines when advising patients on chiropractic care, rather than anecdotal accounts.

Chiropractic Care as a Complement to Conventional Medicine

Chiropractic care has a well-established role in integrative healthcare, often working alongside conventional medical treatments to provide a holistic approach to patient care. For example, many medical doctors refer patients to chiropractors for conservative management of musculoskeletal conditions, with a growing body of evidence supporting its role in reducing the need for surgery and long-term medication use.

By offering a non-invasive, non-pharmacological option for pain relief, chiropractic care can play an important role in the reduction of healthcare costs and improvement of patient outcomes .

A Data-Driven Approach to Chiropractic Care

Physicians should consider the extensive peer-reviewed evidence supporting the safety and efficacy of chiropractic care. While every medical procedure carries inherent risks, it’s important to maintain perspective and acknowledge that serious complications from chiropractic neck adjustments are exceedingly rare. Chiropractic care has been shown to offer significant benefits to patients suffering from musculoskeletal conditions, and it should remain an important option within a comprehensive, patient-centered treatment plan.

For those with concerns, maintaining open communication between chiropractors and other healthcare providers can help ensure that patients receive the best, evidence-based care tailored to their unique needs.

References:

1. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, 2015: Incidence of Cervical Artery Dissection after Chiropractic Care.
2. The BMJ, 2013: Adverse Effects of NSAIDs.
3. Stroke, 2014: Cervical Artery Dissections and Chiropractic Manipulation.
4. Journal of the American Heart Association, 2018: Spontaneous Cervical Arterial Dissection.
5. Neurology, 2013: Risk of Arterial Dissection Following Chiropractic Neck Manipulation.
6. JAMA, 2017: Spinal Manipulation for the Treatment of Acute Lower Back Pain.
7. Annals of Internal Medicine, 2017: Noninvasive Treatments for Acute and Chronic Back Pain.
8. Journal of General Internal Medicine, 2019: Chiropractic Care and Opioid Prescription Reduction.
9. Journal of Chiropractic Education, 2010: Chiropractic Educational Standards.
10. BMC Health Services Research, 2020: Interprofessional Collaboration Between Chiropractors and Medical Physicians.
11. Journal of Chiropractic Medicine, 2016: Patient Satisfaction and Safety in Chiropractic Care.
12. Journal of Occupational Medicine, 2020: Chiropractic Care as a Cost-Effective Treatment Option for Musculoskeletal Pain.