The Palmer Center for Chiropractic Research's latest federal grant award has been earmarked for a collaborative study with the University of Kentucky that is unique on two levels: 1) It will investigate the pain-relief mechanisms underlying spinal manipulative therapy; and 2) It will include a student research training component (the first of its kind at a chiropractic college, according to Palmer) to further students' understanding of basic science research.
The $451,522 grant, awarded courtesy of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, will fund a three-year project involving researchers from PCCR and the University of Kentucky. Stephen Onifer, PhD, associate professor at the PCCR, will serve as co-principal investigator, along with Dr. Bradley Taylor, research professor in the University of Kentucky Department of Physiology and director of the Center for Analgesia Research Excellence.
When contacted by Dynamic Chiropractic for comment, Dr. Onifer provided an overview of the project as follows:
"The project will both 1) characterize our basic science research model of SMT-induced pain relief and 2) determine whether this is mediated by endogenous activation of cannabinoid receptors in the spinal cord dorsal horn.
"Additionally, the project will provide an opportunity for Palmer College of Chiropractic (PCC) students with an opportunity to learn about basic science research through scientist mentored hands-on laboratory participation. Consultant Robert D. Vining, D.C. of the PCCR will assist with translating the basic science research findings and goals into information useful for the PCC students' education and clinical practice."
The Palmer Center for Chiropractic Research is the most heavily funded chiropractic research facility in the U.S., with grants from the NIH, National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, U.S. Health Resources and Services Administration, Department of Defense and private foundation grants in excess of $35 million since 2000.
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