Ernesto Leal-Junior, PhD, DPT

Dr. Ernesto Leal-Junior, a full professor at Nove de Julho University in Sao Paulo, Brazil, is a peer reviewer for six different journals including Lasers in Medical Science, theJournal of Sports Sciences, the Journal of Photochemistry, and Photochemistry and Photobiology. He has lectured at Unilsalle University and the University of Caxias do Sul, both in Brazil, and has presented more than 40 scientific papers at national and international congresses. His expert area of research is phototherapy in skeletal muscle disorders, with a special interest in phototherapy for skeletal muscle fatigue delaying, performance enhancement, injury prevention and recovery after strenuous physical activity. In September 2011, Dr. Leal Junior was awarded the Young Clinical Research Award in Phototherapy by the North American Association of Laser Therapy.

Previous Articles

Helping Athletes Stay at the Top of Their Game
July 15, 2013 (Vol. 31, Issue 14)
Trending
Billing / Fees / Insurance
Should You Be In-Network or Out-of-Network With Insurance?
Should You Be In-Network or Out-of-Network With Insurance?

It’s a new year and many chiropractors are evaluating what will enhance their respective practices, particularly as it relates to their bottom line. One of the most common questions I get is: “Do I need to be credentialed to bill insurance, and what are the best plans to join?” It’s a loaded question – but one every DC ponders. Whether you're already in-network or pondering whether to join, here's what you need to know.

Samuel A. Collins
X-ray / Imaging / MRI
Radiologist-Missed Spinal Tumor Found by Chiropractor
Radiologist-Missed Spinal Tumor Found by Chiropractor

A 36-year-old female presented on Nov. 18, 2025, with lumbar pain and left lower extremity radiculopathy. Following a comprehensive history, physical examination, and radiographic evaluation to assess anatomical and biomechanical factors, an immediate lumbar MRI was ordered due to the patient’s radiculopathic symptoms and clinical findings.

Mark Studin, DC, FPSC, FASBE(C), DAAPM; Timothy Clare, DC, FPSC(C)
Billing / Fees / Insurance
Guidelines vs. Care: Bridging the Gap
Guidelines vs. Care: Bridging the Gap

What happens when best practices for patient care fall outside what guidelines endorse or insurance will cover? More importantly, how can clinicians ethically and effectively integrate non-reimbursed services that improve function, reduce disability and support long-term outcomes? These are not just clinical questions; they are economic and policy challenges that directly affect practice viability and patient access.

Christopher Proulx, DC, PhD(ABD), CSCS