Like a "gathering of the clans," the chiropractic profession came together April 12-13 for the 1991 International Conference on Spinal Manipulation (ICSM). As a signal that the profession was beginning to enter the main stream of scientific research, the opening address was delivered by J. Jarrett Clinton, M.D., M.P.H., the acting administrator of the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR). (Please see related article entitled "Chiropractic Cost Comparison Presented at AHCPR Conference" on page 20 of the March 1, 1991 issue).
The importance of Dr. Clinton's presence can not be overstated. The opportunity to hear how the chiropractic profession could fit into the plans of the AHCPR, and the chance for researchers and representatives of national associations to make contact with a person in his position was fantastic. If this opportunity is pursued, it will effect the future of our profession for decades to come.
In addition, there were numerous papers presented on the following topics:
-Chiropractic Clinical Management of Sports Injuries
-Conducting Clinical Investigations in the Chiropractic Office
But perhaps the highlight of the conference was the debate on "Alternative Philosophical Perspectives in Chiropractic." This debate was between:
-Fred Barge, D.C., Ph.C., former president of the ICA
-Joseph H. Donohue, D.C., noted author and lecturer
-Thomas Gilardi, D.C., president of Sherman College of Straight Chiropractic
-James F. Witerstein, D.C., D.A.C.B.R., president of National College of Chiropractic.
While the sparks flew between the panel members on a number of philosophical issues, all participants were both professional and congenial. In fact, it appeared to this observer that the philosophical extremes within the profession could strongly disagree and still be "family."
But perhaps the best part of the conference took place after the scheduled events. Those times at dinner and afterwards when the giants of chiropractic research, academic, and journal communities made themselves available for dialogue with attendees. No one was "unreachable." It was a rare chance to learn from, debate, and discuss any and all subjects with those pioneers who are pushing the chiropractic frontiers to the limit.
This year's ICSM showed a marked change in those who attended. Chiropractic clinicians are asking better questions and expecting a higher degree of quality from those who are presenting papers. Issues that used to only be raised by a few researchers are now being raised by other concerned DCs. All in all, this years ICSM was a great success.
If you couldn't be at this year's conference, you can order a copy of the ICSM proceedings from the FCER for only $35. But whatever you do, plan on being a part of it next year. You will come back to your patients and your practice excited about your profession, what you do, and the patients your serve.
1. This session included collaborative research between DCs and MDs. This is one of the first times this has occurred.
DMP, Jr.
When sports chiropractors first appeared at the Olympic Games in the 1980s, it was alongside individual athletes who had experienced the benefits of chiropractic care in their training and recovery processes at home. Fast forward to Paris 2024, where chiropractic care was available in the polyclinic for all athletes, and the attitude has now evolved to recognize that “every athlete deserves access to sports chiropractic."
It is estimated that 61% of patients with CTS avoid taking surgical options due to postoperative complications and costly surgical procedures. Chiropractic care offers a comprehensive and effective treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome, addressing the condition from multiple angles. Recent studies also have unveiled a game-changing adjunct to chiropractic treatments for CTS: nerve flossing.
Some doctors thrive in a personality-based clinic and have a loyal following no matter what services or equipment they offer, but for most chiropractic offices who are trying to grow and expand, new equipment purchases help us stay relevant and continue to service our client base in the best, most up-to-date manner possible. So, regarding equipment purchasing: should you lease, get a bank loan, or pay cash?
