We are all aware of the importance of evaluating and treating the spine properly. This is the basis of chiropractic, without which the profession would not exist. With this in mind, we must be constantly seeking the best ways to improve the health of the spine. As our profession continues to learn more about the biomechanics of the spine, we will be able to render even better care to our patients.
I have had the great fortune to have been taught the motion palpation concepts and procedures by Dr. Gillet (developer of motion palpation) and Dr. L.J. Faye, giving myself complete confidence in spinal evaluation and treatment.
Of equal importance to our practice is developing a good understanding of extremity biomechanics, as well as evaluation and treatment procedures. Extremity joint dysfunction can have a profound effect on spinal biomechanics. Dr. John Mennell (1916-1992) was a medical doctor who had a great influence on myself and was very supportive to the chiropractic profession. His knowledge of extremity joint evaluation is unsurpassed.
Without a doubt, ignoring evaluation and treatment procedures of the extremity joints will not allow us to be the best we can for our patients. Many sacroiliac and lumbar joint dysfunction complexes (subluxations) are compensatory to joint dysfunction complexes of the lower extremities (i.e., femuroacetabular, knee and/or ankle joints). Many chronic cervical and thoracic conditions are compensatory to upper extremity problems (i.e., glenohumeral joints, clavicular joints, etc.). The list of extremity joint dysfunction problems affecting the spine is extensive.
The bottom line is, are you evaluating all your patients for extremity joint problems with the utmost confidence? Are you evaluating the extremity joints at all? Let's make a commitment to continue to improve our clinical skills throughout our chiropractic careers.
Have a happy, healthy and prosperous 1993.
Rodney Alward, D.C.
Huntington Beach, California
