Thelma had been a patient of mine during the past 10 years. She would come in a couple of times a month for a tune-up, or "maintenance..."
Thelma developed high blood pressure and had a heart attack. A few weeks ago, her blood pressure was on the rise and she asked me to adjust her to help lower her blood pressure as it has done so in the past. We check her blood pressure before and after the adjustment and noticed a significant drop. Thelma is not alone. Many people suffering from hypertension have been treated successfully with chiropractic.
According to a study published in the March issue of Journal of Human Hypertension, chiropractic adjustments to the upper neck can significantly lower blood pressure in patients with Stage-1 hypertension.
Dr. George Bakris, principal investigator of this study, supplied patients from his clinic at the Rush University Hypertension Center in Chicago for the research.
He said the chiropractic technique studied "has the effect of not one but two blood pressure medications given in combination. And it seemed to be adverse-event free. We saw no side effects and no problems."
In describing why chiropractic was effective, Bakris discussed a "subpopulation of hypertensive patients that have neurogenic hypertension." In this case, it is thought that misalignment of the atlas vertebrae (the top vertebrae in the neck) results in changes in the vertebra artery and "are associated with the relative ischemia of the brainstem circulation and increased blood pressure."
...Thelma and I continue to work together. She is in her 80s now, and I appreciate her and the time we have together in friendship and health.
This is the opinion of Michelle Greenspan, a doctor of chiropractic and a certified chiropractic extremity practitioner. She can be reached at www.greenspanchiro.com.
To see full article:
http://www.citizen-times.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2007706190308
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Dr. Joseph Hudak
Dr. Joseph Hudak would like patients to think of chiropractic care as one spoke in the wheel of general wellness, not just a quick fix when they break down in a health crisis.
"I view myself as a chiropractor and as a health coach who should be part of your wellness too," he said. "Body parts and organs need to be maintained. We get our teeth cleaned. We get our eyes checked. I think everyone should be checked (by a chiropractor), from womb to tomb.
"Chiropractic is an art, a philosophy and a science."
The doctor... sees more female patients.
"Women value their health more," he said.
His patients generally are 35 to 55, although he sees young children, often with sports injuries.
"Injuries on a developing spine are probably more hazardous" than those to mature bones, he said.
Hudak's book, "The Journey to Wellness, A Practical Guide to Health Through Diet, Rest, Exercise, Alignment and Mental Attitude," was recently released...
Hudak emphasizes stress reduction, breathing exercises, attention to diet and sleep as steps on the path to wellness...
Interest in chiropractic came at an early age. Hudak was born with a dislocated hip and wore leg braces as a child. As a teenager, his condition was helped by a chiropractor. It was then he decided to study to become one.
Hudak receives chiropractic care at least once a week from Dr. Matthew Singer, who joined the office team three years ago.
Singer received his doctor of chiropractic degree from Logan Chiropractic College in St. Louis after completing his undergraduate studies at the University of Delaware. He also completed a two-year program in chiropractic neurology at Chicago's National Chiropractic College. Born in New Jersey, he lives in North Brunswick with his wife, Kelly.
Hudak attended Our Lady of Peace Grammar School in Fords and Bishop George Ahr High School in Edison. He attended Middlesex County College and then New York Chiropractic College. He completed a residency program at the Levittown Health Center in Long Island and practiced with Park Avenue Chiropractic in New York City before opening his wellness center in Edison in 1996.
Hudak and his schoolteacher wife, Christina, are expecting their first child in August.
Not surprisingly, the doctor said he plans to give his newborn a full chiropractic evaluation shortly after the birth.
More information is available at www.hudakchiro.com.
To see full article:
http://www.thnt.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?Date=20070619&Category=LIFE07&ArtNo=706190429&SectionCat=&Template=printart
"I view myself as a chiropractor and as a health coach who should be part of your wellness too," he said. "Body parts and organs need to be maintained. We get our teeth cleaned. We get our eyes checked. I think everyone should be checked (by a chiropractor), from womb to tomb.
"Chiropractic is an art, a philosophy and a science."
The doctor... sees more female patients.
"Women value their health more," he said.
His patients generally are 35 to 55, although he sees young children, often with sports injuries.
"Injuries on a developing spine are probably more hazardous" than those to mature bones, he said.
Hudak's book, "The Journey to Wellness, A Practical Guide to Health Through Diet, Rest, Exercise, Alignment and Mental Attitude," was recently released...
Hudak emphasizes stress reduction, breathing exercises, attention to diet and sleep as steps on the path to wellness...
Interest in chiropractic came at an early age. Hudak was born with a dislocated hip and wore leg braces as a child. As a teenager, his condition was helped by a chiropractor. It was then he decided to study to become one.
Hudak receives chiropractic care at least once a week from Dr. Matthew Singer, who joined the office team three years ago.
Singer received his doctor of chiropractic degree from Logan Chiropractic College in St. Louis after completing his undergraduate studies at the University of Delaware. He also completed a two-year program in chiropractic neurology at Chicago's National Chiropractic College. Born in New Jersey, he lives in North Brunswick with his wife, Kelly.
Hudak attended Our Lady of Peace Grammar School in Fords and Bishop George Ahr High School in Edison. He attended Middlesex County College and then New York Chiropractic College. He completed a residency program at the Levittown Health Center in Long Island and practiced with Park Avenue Chiropractic in New York City before opening his wellness center in Edison in 1996.
Hudak and his schoolteacher wife, Christina, are expecting their first child in August.
Not surprisingly, the doctor said he plans to give his newborn a full chiropractic evaluation shortly after the birth.
More information is available at www.hudakchiro.com.
To see full article:
http://www.thnt.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?Date=20070619&Category=LIFE07&ArtNo=706190429&SectionCat=&Template=printart
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Chiropractic Care Improves Fitness, Restores Balance
Never Too Old to Go for Gold: Chiropractic Care Improves Fitness, Restores Balance to Three Figure Skaters in Their Late 30’s
2007 U.S. Adult Singles and Pairs Champions apply chiropractic care to their ice skating regimens
Young or old, amateur or professional, figure skating at any level is a sport that causes discomfort and consistently strains muscles in the back, neck, legs and arms. For “30-something” skaters Ninotchka Aschow, Choeleen Loundagin and William Abel – all from Santa Rosa, California -- chiropractic care has not only been an important and necessary staple in their training and preparation but has also helped each one to realize a dream of winning a gold medal..
Along with competing at around the same age bracket, the three skaters have something else in common: they all work with chiropractor Dr. Christina Dumbadse, who not only offers the skaters physical relief from their injuries, but also takes a holistic approach to patient management, introducing ways to improve the skaters’ wellness, nutrition and mental acuity. Dr. Dumbadse is a member of The Foundation for Chiropractic Progress (www.f4cp.org), a not-for-profit organization providing education about the benefits of chiropractic care.
“I am thoroughly impressed with Dr. Dumbadse’s approach, especially her attention to the latest research, best approaches for athletes and her pro-active approach to care,” says Loundagin, a 39-year-old singles skater throughout her entire career who did not actively compete for almost 22 years.
As a skating coach, she was constantly around the rink watching and interacting with the skaters, and assisting with their training. When the opportunity to participate in a pairs competition was presented to her, Loundagin embarked on an intense training schedule with skating partner, William Abel.
“Going from singles to pairs was a tricky transition, however seeing a chiropractor two to three times a week allowed me to develop the additional muscle and upper body strength for lifting, as well as keeping my alignment consistent,” explains Loundagin, who along with Abel won gold in the first championships pair’s competition at the U.S. Adult Championships. “I think it is important to take care of your body and appreciate what it is doing for you. Chiropractic care definitely helped me become stronger in areas that I was lacking.”
In the beginning, Abel would only visit with his chiropractor for adjustment purposes. Soon his office visits increased when he learned that chiropractic care was just as useful for preventative care.
“Skating is an unbalanced sport – you are jumping and landing on the same side of your body over and over,” says Abel. “Pairs skaters are always lifting with one arm and continuous favoring one side of the body. Over time, you begin to feel various pain sensations that can put your body into an uncomfortable state. For me, chiropractic care is the only thing that can turn around this type of situation. I would not go to a medical doctor for something like this.”
Ninotchka Aschow also understands the health and wellness benefits that come with chiropractic care. At age 37, she captured her second championship, the Gold Ladies Title at the 2007 U.S. Singles Championship.
“I have been seeing a chiropractor for the last 15 years and am confident that if I fall awkwardly and feel some discomfort during my performance, my chiropractor will fix my alignment and get me back on the ice later that day,” says Aschow. “I feel more vibrant and alive at age 37 than I did at age 27, and I can say that is a direct result of chiropractic care.”
2007 U.S. Adult Singles and Pairs Champions apply chiropractic care to their ice skating regimens
Young or old, amateur or professional, figure skating at any level is a sport that causes discomfort and consistently strains muscles in the back, neck, legs and arms. For “30-something” skaters Ninotchka Aschow, Choeleen Loundagin and William Abel – all from Santa Rosa, California -- chiropractic care has not only been an important and necessary staple in their training and preparation but has also helped each one to realize a dream of winning a gold medal..
Along with competing at around the same age bracket, the three skaters have something else in common: they all work with chiropractor Dr. Christina Dumbadse, who not only offers the skaters physical relief from their injuries, but also takes a holistic approach to patient management, introducing ways to improve the skaters’ wellness, nutrition and mental acuity. Dr. Dumbadse is a member of The Foundation for Chiropractic Progress (www.f4cp.org), a not-for-profit organization providing education about the benefits of chiropractic care.
“I am thoroughly impressed with Dr. Dumbadse’s approach, especially her attention to the latest research, best approaches for athletes and her pro-active approach to care,” says Loundagin, a 39-year-old singles skater throughout her entire career who did not actively compete for almost 22 years.
As a skating coach, she was constantly around the rink watching and interacting with the skaters, and assisting with their training. When the opportunity to participate in a pairs competition was presented to her, Loundagin embarked on an intense training schedule with skating partner, William Abel.
“Going from singles to pairs was a tricky transition, however seeing a chiropractor two to three times a week allowed me to develop the additional muscle and upper body strength for lifting, as well as keeping my alignment consistent,” explains Loundagin, who along with Abel won gold in the first championships pair’s competition at the U.S. Adult Championships. “I think it is important to take care of your body and appreciate what it is doing for you. Chiropractic care definitely helped me become stronger in areas that I was lacking.”
In the beginning, Abel would only visit with his chiropractor for adjustment purposes. Soon his office visits increased when he learned that chiropractic care was just as useful for preventative care.
“Skating is an unbalanced sport – you are jumping and landing on the same side of your body over and over,” says Abel. “Pairs skaters are always lifting with one arm and continuous favoring one side of the body. Over time, you begin to feel various pain sensations that can put your body into an uncomfortable state. For me, chiropractic care is the only thing that can turn around this type of situation. I would not go to a medical doctor for something like this.”
Ninotchka Aschow also understands the health and wellness benefits that come with chiropractic care. At age 37, she captured her second championship, the Gold Ladies Title at the 2007 U.S. Singles Championship.
“I have been seeing a chiropractor for the last 15 years and am confident that if I fall awkwardly and feel some discomfort during my performance, my chiropractor will fix my alignment and get me back on the ice later that day,” says Aschow. “I feel more vibrant and alive at age 37 than I did at age 27, and I can say that is a direct result of chiropractic care.”
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
Chiropractic is Helping Patients Feel Younger
As the baby boomer generation approaches retirement age, they have begun experiencing many of the ailments typically associated with aging. Common complaints are stiffness and aches and pains of various sorts.
According to Dr. Rode, it doesn’t have to be this way. “I get many patients who come to me in pain and one of their most frequent complaints is that their pain makes them feel old. They just naturally assume that as they age, they are going to automatically start having these problems.” Pain that is associated with aging can actually be attributed to misalignments in their spine. A common misconception is that soreness and aches in the muscle are only a muscular problem and that stretching will make it go away. What happens is nerves from the spine are pinched and that decreases or interrupts the nerve flow to the muscles causing the aches and pains.
Dr. Rode recommends chiropractic care to reduce and eliminate the pressure on the nerves thus getting rid of the aches and pains. He explains, “Often patients will have more energy, more stamina and are able to do things that they had mistakenly believed they couldn’t do any more. They tell me they feel several years younger now that they are pain free and can enjoy life more fully.”
According to Dr. Rode, it doesn’t have to be this way. “I get many patients who come to me in pain and one of their most frequent complaints is that their pain makes them feel old. They just naturally assume that as they age, they are going to automatically start having these problems.” Pain that is associated with aging can actually be attributed to misalignments in their spine. A common misconception is that soreness and aches in the muscle are only a muscular problem and that stretching will make it go away. What happens is nerves from the spine are pinched and that decreases or interrupts the nerve flow to the muscles causing the aches and pains.
Dr. Rode recommends chiropractic care to reduce and eliminate the pressure on the nerves thus getting rid of the aches and pains. He explains, “Often patients will have more energy, more stamina and are able to do things that they had mistakenly believed they couldn’t do any more. They tell me they feel several years younger now that they are pain free and can enjoy life more fully.”
Chiropractic Helps Lower Your Golf Score
Dr. Raymond Sue of University Chiropractic is helping golf lovers to stay on the green longer. "All too often I see golfers end up taking pain killers or having to reduce playing the game they love so much, all because of back pain from golf. Recently chiropractic treatment has really caught on with both amateurs and pro’s as an excellent way to alleviate those on-the-green pains," said Dr. Sue.
The problems occur from all those repetitive golf swings. It puts a significant strain on the lower back and other areas of the body. Since chiropractic is the science of the spine, they are in a good position to help golfers understand the correct way to take care of their bodies while still enjoying lots of golf.
Many of the nation’s head golf instructors now regularly seek chiropractic care to keep themselves healthy while going through the daily physical grind of golf instruction. Top professional golfers, like Tiger Woods, seek chiropractic care on a regular basis.
How well does chiropractic work in aiding golfers? A recent study reported that up to 85 percent of injuries on the PGA Tour and Senior Tour relate to the spine. Between 70 to 75 percent of these golfers receive chiropractic care regularly. There are approximately 25 to 30 million amateur golfers in America. Dr. Sue said, "It's my goal to educate part-time golfers who are passionate about their game, that chiropractic can keep them playing longer, more often, and into their retirement years while playing without pain. And chiropractic is also terrific for preventing injuries.”
Some chiropractors, like Dr. Raymond Sue, D.C., offer Free Golf Screenings to those with a sincere desire to explore how chiropractic might help them in improving their golf game and in staying healthy. For more information on how chiropractic can help improve your golf game, please consult your local chiropractor.
The problems occur from all those repetitive golf swings. It puts a significant strain on the lower back and other areas of the body. Since chiropractic is the science of the spine, they are in a good position to help golfers understand the correct way to take care of their bodies while still enjoying lots of golf.
Many of the nation’s head golf instructors now regularly seek chiropractic care to keep themselves healthy while going through the daily physical grind of golf instruction. Top professional golfers, like Tiger Woods, seek chiropractic care on a regular basis.
How well does chiropractic work in aiding golfers? A recent study reported that up to 85 percent of injuries on the PGA Tour and Senior Tour relate to the spine. Between 70 to 75 percent of these golfers receive chiropractic care regularly. There are approximately 25 to 30 million amateur golfers in America. Dr. Sue said, "It's my goal to educate part-time golfers who are passionate about their game, that chiropractic can keep them playing longer, more often, and into their retirement years while playing without pain. And chiropractic is also terrific for preventing injuries.”
Some chiropractors, like Dr. Raymond Sue, D.C., offer Free Golf Screenings to those with a sincere desire to explore how chiropractic might help them in improving their golf game and in staying healthy. For more information on how chiropractic can help improve your golf game, please consult your local chiropractor.
Friday, June 15, 2007
Chiropractors: Court Victory vs. 'Quackbuster'
In a strongly worded opinion, the Appeals Court for the State of Pennsylvania ruled against Stephen Barrett, a long-time critic of chiropractic and alternative health care. In an action that chiropractors see as a major setback for their nemesis, the judge refused to overturn a 2005 decision against Barrett.
The earlier lawsuit was won by chiropractor Tedd Koren, DC, whose company markets chiropractic educational pamphlets that Barrett had harshly criticized.
In his newsletter, Dr. Koren referred to the self-proclaimed "Quackbuster" as a "Quackpot" and commented that Barrett was "de-licensed," and "in trouble." Barrett sued Koren for defamation and lost the case.
Barrett, who represents himself as an expert on health care quackery, has appeared as a medical expert in numerous court cases and claims the FDA, FTC and other governmental agencies have consulted him on health care issues. He is noted for his outspoken opposition to and criticism of non-medical health care approaches, most of which he labels "quackery." His targets have included chiropractic, homeopathy, naturopathy, and even two-time Nobel Prize winner Linus Pauling.
Heading the legal team for the original Koren case and appeal was Carlos Negrete, who serves as legal counsel for the World Chiropractic Alliance (WCA).
"This is a great victory for the chiropractic profession," Koren stated after the Pennsylvania Appellate Court decision was announced. "Once again, chiropractors across the country have been vindicated and exposed the specious and evil attacks by someone who has no knowledge or expertise in our field."
Negrete specializes in representing alternative health care providers who are targeted by advocates of the medical and pharmaceutical industries. His previous court victories have positioned him as the premier "health freedom" attorney in the US.
During heated and often dramatic courtroom proceedings, Negrete pointed out many of the questionable statements Barrett includes on his websites attacking chiropractic, as well as facts about Barrett's own credentials that shocked even his supporters. Under Negrete's intense cross-examination, Barrett admitted that he had not been a licensed physician for more than a decade and had failed the neurological exam, preventing him from being certified as a specialist. Negrete demonstrated that, despite his claims, Barrett had no real expertise in any medical field.
Barrett also admitted, under questioning, that he misrepresented himself as a licensed physician in a previous court case.
"These revelations cast serious doubts about Barrett's credibility and integrity and were major factors in the judge's decision," Negrete stated.
Calling the case a "landmark decision" for chiropractors and alternative care providers, Negrete noted that "Barrett has made a career out of attacking core chiropractic values, specifically subluxation, with no scientific basis for his contentions. This case clearly shows that his opinions about chiropractic or other health care options are irrelevant."
WCA President Terry A. Rondberg, DC, agreed with Negrete. "This is a turning point not only for Barrett, but for all unscientific and uninformed opponents who seek to impose the medical monopoly on the public. People around the world deserve freedom of choice in health care and need valid, unbiased and truthful information on all options available to them. Thanks in great part to the WCA legal counsel, Carlos Negrete, they now have a better chance of getting both."
The World Chiropractic Alliance — an international organization representing doctors of chiropractic — promotes traditional, drug-free and non-invasive chiropractic to correct vertebral subluxations. The WCA is an NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) associated with the United Nations Department of Public Information and publishes the peer-reviewed chiropractic research journal, Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research. For more information, contact the WCA at 800-347-1011 or http://www.worldchiropracticalliance.org.
The earlier lawsuit was won by chiropractor Tedd Koren, DC, whose company markets chiropractic educational pamphlets that Barrett had harshly criticized.
In his newsletter, Dr. Koren referred to the self-proclaimed "Quackbuster" as a "Quackpot" and commented that Barrett was "de-licensed," and "in trouble." Barrett sued Koren for defamation and lost the case.
Barrett, who represents himself as an expert on health care quackery, has appeared as a medical expert in numerous court cases and claims the FDA, FTC and other governmental agencies have consulted him on health care issues. He is noted for his outspoken opposition to and criticism of non-medical health care approaches, most of which he labels "quackery." His targets have included chiropractic, homeopathy, naturopathy, and even two-time Nobel Prize winner Linus Pauling.
Heading the legal team for the original Koren case and appeal was Carlos Negrete, who serves as legal counsel for the World Chiropractic Alliance (WCA).
"This is a great victory for the chiropractic profession," Koren stated after the Pennsylvania Appellate Court decision was announced. "Once again, chiropractors across the country have been vindicated and exposed the specious and evil attacks by someone who has no knowledge or expertise in our field."
Negrete specializes in representing alternative health care providers who are targeted by advocates of the medical and pharmaceutical industries. His previous court victories have positioned him as the premier "health freedom" attorney in the US.
During heated and often dramatic courtroom proceedings, Negrete pointed out many of the questionable statements Barrett includes on his websites attacking chiropractic, as well as facts about Barrett's own credentials that shocked even his supporters. Under Negrete's intense cross-examination, Barrett admitted that he had not been a licensed physician for more than a decade and had failed the neurological exam, preventing him from being certified as a specialist. Negrete demonstrated that, despite his claims, Barrett had no real expertise in any medical field.
Barrett also admitted, under questioning, that he misrepresented himself as a licensed physician in a previous court case.
"These revelations cast serious doubts about Barrett's credibility and integrity and were major factors in the judge's decision," Negrete stated.
Calling the case a "landmark decision" for chiropractors and alternative care providers, Negrete noted that "Barrett has made a career out of attacking core chiropractic values, specifically subluxation, with no scientific basis for his contentions. This case clearly shows that his opinions about chiropractic or other health care options are irrelevant."
WCA President Terry A. Rondberg, DC, agreed with Negrete. "This is a turning point not only for Barrett, but for all unscientific and uninformed opponents who seek to impose the medical monopoly on the public. People around the world deserve freedom of choice in health care and need valid, unbiased and truthful information on all options available to them. Thanks in great part to the WCA legal counsel, Carlos Negrete, they now have a better chance of getting both."
The World Chiropractic Alliance — an international organization representing doctors of chiropractic — promotes traditional, drug-free and non-invasive chiropractic to correct vertebral subluxations. The WCA is an NGO (Non-Governmental Organization) associated with the United Nations Department of Public Information and publishes the peer-reviewed chiropractic research journal, Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research. For more information, contact the WCA at 800-347-1011 or http://www.worldchiropracticalliance.org.
Friday, June 8, 2007
CAM = Cost Savings, High Patient Satisfaction
Patients visiting chiropractors and other holistically-oriented physicians who serve as primary care providers (PCPs) have lower utilization costs and higher patient satisfaction levels than patients treated by conventional medical doctors, according to a study published in the May issue of the "Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics" that tracked data from a unique Independent Physicians Association (IPA) where chiropractors serve as first- contact, primary care physicians.
"The escalation of medical expenditures remains an urgent problem in the United States and it's becoming quite clear that cost containment strategies by conventional medical providers are failing to achieve even mediocre results," said study coauthor James Winterstein, DC. "This study confirms that integration of allopathic, chiropractic and other complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) providers can positively impact patient quality of care while limiting overall costs. This approach to patient care has great potential to improve the U.S. healthcare system."
Led by Richard Sarnat, MD, researchers directly compared cost and clinical utilization data from an integrative CAM Independent Physicians Association (IPA) with conventional medical IPA data from members enrolled in a traditional health maintenance organization (HMO). The recent report analyzes data from 2003 to 2005 and is a follow up to the original report published in 2004, which compared data from 1999 to 2002.
"Our most recent analysis supports earlier findings that patients visiting CAM-orientated primary care physicians (PCP) -- primarily chiropractors -- experienced fewer hospitalizations, underwent fewer surgeries and used considerably fewer pharmaceuticals than HMO patients who received traditional medical care," Dr. Winterstein said. "Moreover, doctors of chiropractic succeeded in diagnosing and treating patients at a level nearly equal to medical doctors."
Researchers found that over the course of the seven-year study, patients visiting chiropractors and other CAM-oriented PCPs had 60 percent fewer hospitalizations, 62 percent fewer outpatient surgical cases, and 85 percent lower pharmaceutical costs when compared with total network HMO utilization rates and costs. The chiropractors and other CAM doctors treated and managed cases ranging from upper respiratory tract infections and allergies to headaches, orthopedic and other medical conditions.
In 2005, the chiropractic PCPs managed 60 percent of their enrolled patients without requiring a referral to a conventional medical specialist. These data mirror the 2001 findings, which also demonstrated that 60 percent of the patient population within the integrative IPA was solely managed by their chiropractic PCPs.
"The most current data from our ongoing study suggests that doctors of chiropractic are well-suited to provide patients with valuable primary care services," Dr. Winterstein notes. "We have demonstrated that it is possible to deliver CAM-oriented primary care in a highly regulated environment without compromising either quality or safety."
Patients reported on the quality of care they received through the use of annual patient satisfaction surveys. On average, data from patients enrolled between 2003 and 2005 demonstrated a high degree of satisfaction (96 percent, 94 percent, and 91 percent, respectively). These findings were similar to data from 1999 through 2002 (100 percent, 89 percent, 91 percent, and 90 percent, respectively). The integrative CAM patients consistently rated their experiences more positively than did members enrolled within the HMO's conventional medical IPAs.
The "Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics," the premier biomedical publication in the chiropractic profession and the official scientific journal of the American Chiropractic Association, provides the latest information on current research developments, as well as clinically oriented research and practical information for use in clinical settings.
"The escalation of medical expenditures remains an urgent problem in the United States and it's becoming quite clear that cost containment strategies by conventional medical providers are failing to achieve even mediocre results," said study coauthor James Winterstein, DC. "This study confirms that integration of allopathic, chiropractic and other complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) providers can positively impact patient quality of care while limiting overall costs. This approach to patient care has great potential to improve the U.S. healthcare system."
Led by Richard Sarnat, MD, researchers directly compared cost and clinical utilization data from an integrative CAM Independent Physicians Association (IPA) with conventional medical IPA data from members enrolled in a traditional health maintenance organization (HMO). The recent report analyzes data from 2003 to 2005 and is a follow up to the original report published in 2004, which compared data from 1999 to 2002.
"Our most recent analysis supports earlier findings that patients visiting CAM-orientated primary care physicians (PCP) -- primarily chiropractors -- experienced fewer hospitalizations, underwent fewer surgeries and used considerably fewer pharmaceuticals than HMO patients who received traditional medical care," Dr. Winterstein said. "Moreover, doctors of chiropractic succeeded in diagnosing and treating patients at a level nearly equal to medical doctors."
Researchers found that over the course of the seven-year study, patients visiting chiropractors and other CAM-oriented PCPs had 60 percent fewer hospitalizations, 62 percent fewer outpatient surgical cases, and 85 percent lower pharmaceutical costs when compared with total network HMO utilization rates and costs. The chiropractors and other CAM doctors treated and managed cases ranging from upper respiratory tract infections and allergies to headaches, orthopedic and other medical conditions.
In 2005, the chiropractic PCPs managed 60 percent of their enrolled patients without requiring a referral to a conventional medical specialist. These data mirror the 2001 findings, which also demonstrated that 60 percent of the patient population within the integrative IPA was solely managed by their chiropractic PCPs.
"The most current data from our ongoing study suggests that doctors of chiropractic are well-suited to provide patients with valuable primary care services," Dr. Winterstein notes. "We have demonstrated that it is possible to deliver CAM-oriented primary care in a highly regulated environment without compromising either quality or safety."
Patients reported on the quality of care they received through the use of annual patient satisfaction surveys. On average, data from patients enrolled between 2003 and 2005 demonstrated a high degree of satisfaction (96 percent, 94 percent, and 91 percent, respectively). These findings were similar to data from 1999 through 2002 (100 percent, 89 percent, 91 percent, and 90 percent, respectively). The integrative CAM patients consistently rated their experiences more positively than did members enrolled within the HMO's conventional medical IPAs.
The "Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics," the premier biomedical publication in the chiropractic profession and the official scientific journal of the American Chiropractic Association, provides the latest information on current research developments, as well as clinically oriented research and practical information for use in clinical settings.
Monday, June 4, 2007
Frederick Family Chiropractic
...Donna Frederick opened Frederick Family Chiropractic on June 1, 2006. She believes she is the only female chiropractor in Delaware County. Frederick is a Muncie native who graduated from Southside High School, Ball State University and Palmer College of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa...
Were you a non-traditional student? "I had been out of school for nine years and was going on 30. But non-traditional students are very common at chiropractic schools. People decide later in life to go..."
You decided to open your own practice? "The dream is to open your own practice. It doesn't happen a lot. Most of the students in my class did associateships with another doctor for a year or two. You want to build a patient base, but most sign a non-compete clause so you can't take patients with you. Few people in my class planned to start their own practice right away. It's usually a money issue..."
Have you reached your goal with your practice? "I'm not there yet. We're seeing about 80 people a week. My goal is 300."
Is that number typical? "There's a low percentage of chiropractors who see 300 or more a week..."
Do you have a most memorable moment? "I went to India on a clinic abroad trip. I had a 'miracle case,' a 24-year-old who could barely walk, barely speak, his eyes diverged to opposite corners of his sockets. They brought him in for low back pain. I adjusted him three times. The second day he was saying the word 'doctor.' By the third day he was speaking in complete sentences, walking without assistance and his eyes had coordinated."
What affected him? "I think he had a nerve compression in his neck and information from his brain was not getting to where it needed to get. I just happened to be the person who saw him. It's not that I think I'm so great, but I can do this."
What's the difference between chiropractors and MDs? "To get an MD, I would have to go to school two more years. The difference is we don't do minor surgeries or prescribe medication. I can do a physical, order tests and MRIs and blood work. But my treatment consists of adjustments and therapies."
What's the most common problem you treat? "Headaches and low back pain."
What's the most common treatment? "I have stretches that I have them do or I do an adjustment and then recommend exercises. I do manual techniques. I use my hands. I move the bone so it helps relieve the pressure on the nerve. You do a very small adjustment."
To see rest of article and picture:
http://www.thestarpress.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070603/BUSINESS/706030327/1046
Were you a non-traditional student? "I had been out of school for nine years and was going on 30. But non-traditional students are very common at chiropractic schools. People decide later in life to go..."
You decided to open your own practice? "The dream is to open your own practice. It doesn't happen a lot. Most of the students in my class did associateships with another doctor for a year or two. You want to build a patient base, but most sign a non-compete clause so you can't take patients with you. Few people in my class planned to start their own practice right away. It's usually a money issue..."
Have you reached your goal with your practice? "I'm not there yet. We're seeing about 80 people a week. My goal is 300."
Is that number typical? "There's a low percentage of chiropractors who see 300 or more a week..."
Do you have a most memorable moment? "I went to India on a clinic abroad trip. I had a 'miracle case,' a 24-year-old who could barely walk, barely speak, his eyes diverged to opposite corners of his sockets. They brought him in for low back pain. I adjusted him three times. The second day he was saying the word 'doctor.' By the third day he was speaking in complete sentences, walking without assistance and his eyes had coordinated."
What affected him? "I think he had a nerve compression in his neck and information from his brain was not getting to where it needed to get. I just happened to be the person who saw him. It's not that I think I'm so great, but I can do this."
What's the difference between chiropractors and MDs? "To get an MD, I would have to go to school two more years. The difference is we don't do minor surgeries or prescribe medication. I can do a physical, order tests and MRIs and blood work. But my treatment consists of adjustments and therapies."
What's the most common problem you treat? "Headaches and low back pain."
What's the most common treatment? "I have stretches that I have them do or I do an adjustment and then recommend exercises. I do manual techniques. I use my hands. I move the bone so it helps relieve the pressure on the nerve. You do a very small adjustment."
To see rest of article and picture:
http://www.thestarpress.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070603/BUSINESS/706030327/1046
Dehydration Cause of Headache and Back Pain?
Doctor of Chiropractic Claims Dehydration is Primary Cause of Chronic Headache and Back Pain
After 12 years of clinical practice both in New York and Texas, Dr. Daniel Bettiol is hanging up his white coat forever to promote the healing benefits of proper body hydration.
Dr. Daniel Bettiol is leaving the profession of Chiropractic to pursue his clinically-tested belief that the primary causative factor in Headaches, Neck & Low Back pain is Dehydration of the tissues and the inability to eliminate accumulated Metabolic wastes from the body.
While treating over 3,500 patients and delivering over 120,000 chiropractic adjustments, Dr. Bettiol observed that over 90% of his patients were inadequately hydrated. "My most consistent finding was that 100% of my chronic Headache and Low Back patients were severely dehydrated. Many of these patients acknowledged an absolute disdain for drinking water," says Dr. Bettiol. "For those patients who adopted my daily water regimen, an immediate decrease in pain symptomology was observed. That result was too consistent to be a coincidence."
Dr. Bettiol is determined to continue the work of Fereydoon Batmanghelidj, M.D., who wrote the blockbuster 1992 best-seller, Your Body’s many cries for Water. Dr. Batmanghelidj died in 2005, but his signature slogan "You are not Sick, you are Thirsty---Don’t treat thirst with Medications" lives on. "Dr. Batmanghelidj warned the public back in the 1980s that America’s thirst for Soda, Coffee, and Sugar-filled drinks would create a huge population of unhealthy and obese people," says Dr. Bettiol. "To say his prediction was accurate would be a gross understatement."
Bettiol begins his new journey with the firm opinion that ALL water is not optimum for health. His extensive research has shown that Tap, Bottled, Charcoal-filtered, Distilled and Reverse Osmosis Water is NOT the ideal Water for long-term health and healing. "America has ignored the miraculous healing being experienced by the Koreans and Japanese with Ionized Alkaline Water," says Bettiol. "Where Bill Gates vision was a computer in every home, my lifetime mission is to get an Alkaline Water Ionizer in every home throughout the world. That would not only eliminate obesity, chronic pain and the need for useless Medication, Surgery & Radiation...it would singlehandedly cut our annual $1.5 Trillion health care costs by 90%."
"I would rather people spend more time with their families, their hobbies and the work they love, than sit in a doctor’s office for four hours waiting for a Doctor visit they really DON’T NEED."
After 12 years of clinical practice both in New York and Texas, Dr. Daniel Bettiol is hanging up his white coat forever to promote the healing benefits of proper body hydration.
Dr. Daniel Bettiol is leaving the profession of Chiropractic to pursue his clinically-tested belief that the primary causative factor in Headaches, Neck & Low Back pain is Dehydration of the tissues and the inability to eliminate accumulated Metabolic wastes from the body.
While treating over 3,500 patients and delivering over 120,000 chiropractic adjustments, Dr. Bettiol observed that over 90% of his patients were inadequately hydrated. "My most consistent finding was that 100% of my chronic Headache and Low Back patients were severely dehydrated. Many of these patients acknowledged an absolute disdain for drinking water," says Dr. Bettiol. "For those patients who adopted my daily water regimen, an immediate decrease in pain symptomology was observed. That result was too consistent to be a coincidence."
Dr. Bettiol is determined to continue the work of Fereydoon Batmanghelidj, M.D., who wrote the blockbuster 1992 best-seller, Your Body’s many cries for Water. Dr. Batmanghelidj died in 2005, but his signature slogan "You are not Sick, you are Thirsty---Don’t treat thirst with Medications" lives on. "Dr. Batmanghelidj warned the public back in the 1980s that America’s thirst for Soda, Coffee, and Sugar-filled drinks would create a huge population of unhealthy and obese people," says Dr. Bettiol. "To say his prediction was accurate would be a gross understatement."
Bettiol begins his new journey with the firm opinion that ALL water is not optimum for health. His extensive research has shown that Tap, Bottled, Charcoal-filtered, Distilled and Reverse Osmosis Water is NOT the ideal Water for long-term health and healing. "America has ignored the miraculous healing being experienced by the Koreans and Japanese with Ionized Alkaline Water," says Bettiol. "Where Bill Gates vision was a computer in every home, my lifetime mission is to get an Alkaline Water Ionizer in every home throughout the world. That would not only eliminate obesity, chronic pain and the need for useless Medication, Surgery & Radiation...it would singlehandedly cut our annual $1.5 Trillion health care costs by 90%."
"I would rather people spend more time with their families, their hobbies and the work they love, than sit in a doctor’s office for four hours waiting for a Doctor visit they really DON’T NEED."
Friday, June 1, 2007
Laptops = Backache (7)
Booming sales of laptops have led to a surge in the number of computer users with back and muscle problems, experts have warned.
Girls as young as 12 are being diagnosed with nerve damage caused by slouching over screens, a group of leading chiropractors said.
Millions of others are at risk of "irretrievable damage" to their spines, necks and shoulders because of poor posture when using laptops, it was claimed.
Back specialists say as many as four in five patients have chronic nerve damage caused by working on portable PCs.
The problem is being driven by falling prices and the increasing availability of wireless technology, which makes portable computers more attractive.
Laptop sales in PC World went up by more than 25 per cent last year.
In addition, laptops used at work are not subject to the same health and safety regulations as desktop computers.
This makes it more likely they will be used incorrectly.
A common problem is perching a laptop on the legs so users stare down at the screen and put strain on their necks, spines and legs.
London-based chiropractor Michael Durntall was among those calling for more research into the issue.
He said he had seen dozens of Xrays showing signs of degeneration in the joints of regular laptop users.
Mr Durntall added: "Mothers bring in their 12-year-old daughters suffering back pain and when they arrive I can see their slumped posture straight away.
"I also see many people in their twenties and thirties with a dowager's hump - a rounding at the base of the neck - after only a few years of looking down at a small screen while sitting slumped on a chair for long periods."
Rishi Loatey, a chiropractor from Wembley, North-West London, said he often treated back and neck pain caused by using a laptop on the move, such as on a train...
Compete Article
Girls as young as 12 are being diagnosed with nerve damage caused by slouching over screens, a group of leading chiropractors said.
Millions of others are at risk of "irretrievable damage" to their spines, necks and shoulders because of poor posture when using laptops, it was claimed.
Back specialists say as many as four in five patients have chronic nerve damage caused by working on portable PCs.
The problem is being driven by falling prices and the increasing availability of wireless technology, which makes portable computers more attractive.
Laptop sales in PC World went up by more than 25 per cent last year.
In addition, laptops used at work are not subject to the same health and safety regulations as desktop computers.
This makes it more likely they will be used incorrectly.
A common problem is perching a laptop on the legs so users stare down at the screen and put strain on their necks, spines and legs.
London-based chiropractor Michael Durntall was among those calling for more research into the issue.
He said he had seen dozens of Xrays showing signs of degeneration in the joints of regular laptop users.
Mr Durntall added: "Mothers bring in their 12-year-old daughters suffering back pain and when they arrive I can see their slumped posture straight away.
"I also see many people in their twenties and thirties with a dowager's hump - a rounding at the base of the neck - after only a few years of looking down at a small screen while sitting slumped on a chair for long periods."
Rishi Loatey, a chiropractor from Wembley, North-West London, said he often treated back and neck pain caused by using a laptop on the move, such as on a train...
Compete Article
IDD Therapy Offers Non-Surgical Back Pain Relief
There is an innovative treatment option at the Advanced Physical Medicine Center locally in Fairview, N.J.
"There are only a handful of these machines in Bergen County," explains Dr. Michael Arber, a chiropractor at the center, who administers non-invasive Intervertebral Disc Decompression (IDD) therapy. "The best part about the equipment is that it's not just temporary relief. It actually reduces the size of disc injuries and helps the surrounding soft tissue return to normal function."
Thanks to IDD Therapy, a non-surgical treatment, approximately 85 percent of people can relieve back pain symptoms without drugs or surgery. This revolutionary technology is ideal for herniated or bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, sciatica and acute or chronic back pain.
IDD therapy is deployed via the Accu-SPINA System, and works to reshape the spine using computer technology to apply traction to spots causing lower back pain. The traction provides a negative pressure that allows fluid, blood and nutrients into the affected discs that cause pain. In other words, as each challenge is introduced to the body, it supports muscles and ligament tissue to retone itself, re-educating the neuromuscular system and relieving pain. The typical treatment is 18 to 24 treatments over eight weeks, and each session lasts 30 minutes.
"It's not painful. Once on the machine, a lower harness pulls at a specific angle and tension to alleviate the area of stress," says Dr. Arber. "While IDD therapy is not currently reimbursable by insurance carriers, the cost of getting lower-back surgery is far greater. And IDD therapy is non- invasive."
Dr. Arber says a lumbar MRI and an exam is all that is needed to determine if IDD therapy is right for a patient.
The Advanced Physical Medicine Center specializes in chiropractic care, physical therapy, paint management and massage therapy. Located in Fairview, N.J., the facility has numerous certified professionals including chiropractors Michael Arber, BS, DC, DAAPM, and David Berk, BS, DC, MS, CCSP.
"There are only a handful of these machines in Bergen County," explains Dr. Michael Arber, a chiropractor at the center, who administers non-invasive Intervertebral Disc Decompression (IDD) therapy. "The best part about the equipment is that it's not just temporary relief. It actually reduces the size of disc injuries and helps the surrounding soft tissue return to normal function."
Thanks to IDD Therapy, a non-surgical treatment, approximately 85 percent of people can relieve back pain symptoms without drugs or surgery. This revolutionary technology is ideal for herniated or bulging discs, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, sciatica and acute or chronic back pain.
IDD therapy is deployed via the Accu-SPINA System, and works to reshape the spine using computer technology to apply traction to spots causing lower back pain. The traction provides a negative pressure that allows fluid, blood and nutrients into the affected discs that cause pain. In other words, as each challenge is introduced to the body, it supports muscles and ligament tissue to retone itself, re-educating the neuromuscular system and relieving pain. The typical treatment is 18 to 24 treatments over eight weeks, and each session lasts 30 minutes.
"It's not painful. Once on the machine, a lower harness pulls at a specific angle and tension to alleviate the area of stress," says Dr. Arber. "While IDD therapy is not currently reimbursable by insurance carriers, the cost of getting lower-back surgery is far greater. And IDD therapy is non- invasive."
Dr. Arber says a lumbar MRI and an exam is all that is needed to determine if IDD therapy is right for a patient.
The Advanced Physical Medicine Center specializes in chiropractic care, physical therapy, paint management and massage therapy. Located in Fairview, N.J., the facility has numerous certified professionals including chiropractors Michael Arber, BS, DC, DAAPM, and David Berk, BS, DC, MS, CCSP.
iPods, Blackberries a Literal ‘Pain in the Neck,’
With the increasing popularity of cell phones, Blackberries, I-Pods and handheld games, Americans are spending a lot of time peering down at their laps. While the gadgets are a source of entertainment and help keep people connected to friends and coworkers, handheld devices are also a source of muscle pain and injury, according to the American Chiropractic Association.
“I have seen a dramatic increase in the number of people complaining of pain as a result of their handheld devices,” said Dr. Keith Overland, a chiropractor from Norwalk, Conn. Dr. Overland says most of his patients don’t realize how much looking down at a gadget can worsen neck, back and shoulder problems.
“We actually ask patients to hold the device in their hands and then take a look at the way they’re holding their body,” Dr. Overland noted. “We can see almost immediately the cause of their pain – poor posture and overused muscles.”
To help lessen muscle soreness caused by popular handheld devices, Dr. Overland and the American Chiropractic Association suggest the following:
Practice good posture when using any handheld device. Sit in a chair that provides solid back support and keep feet comfortably on the floor.
Spend 10 minutes or less with your head tilted down looking at the device, and when possible hold the gadget at eye level.
When at home or in the office, connect the device to your keyboard or computer.
Take frequent breaks and alternate activities that use different muscle groups.
Watch for warning signs of overuse such as headaches, fatigue or muscle pain.
“I have seen a dramatic increase in the number of people complaining of pain as a result of their handheld devices,” said Dr. Keith Overland, a chiropractor from Norwalk, Conn. Dr. Overland says most of his patients don’t realize how much looking down at a gadget can worsen neck, back and shoulder problems.
“We actually ask patients to hold the device in their hands and then take a look at the way they’re holding their body,” Dr. Overland noted. “We can see almost immediately the cause of their pain – poor posture and overused muscles.”
To help lessen muscle soreness caused by popular handheld devices, Dr. Overland and the American Chiropractic Association suggest the following:
Practice good posture when using any handheld device. Sit in a chair that provides solid back support and keep feet comfortably on the floor.
Spend 10 minutes or less with your head tilted down looking at the device, and when possible hold the gadget at eye level.
When at home or in the office, connect the device to your keyboard or computer.
Take frequent breaks and alternate activities that use different muscle groups.
Watch for warning signs of overuse such as headaches, fatigue or muscle pain.
Spinal Manipulation Beneficial for Neck Pain
A new literature review finds evidence that patients with chronic neck pain enrolled in clinical trials reported significant improvement following chiropractic spinal manipulation, according to a March/April 2007 report in the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics (JMPT).
According to Howard Vernon, DC, PhD, the review’s chief author, “The results of the literature review confirm the common clinical experience of doctors of chiropractic: neck manipulation is beneficial for patients with certain forms of chronic neck pain.”
As part of the literature review, Dr. Vernon and his colleagues reviewed nine previously published trials and found “high-quality evidence” that patients with chronic neck pain showed significant pain-level improvements following spinal manipulation. No trial group was reported to remain unchanged, and all groups showed positive changes up to 12 weeks post treatment. No trial reported any serious adverse effects.
This literature review did not include studies involving patients with acute neck pain, neck and arm pain, neck pain due to whiplash, or those with headaches. In this review, chronic neck pain was defined as being a minimum of 8 weeks duration.
Researchers also found that mobilization therapy was beneficial in improving patients’ pain levels, with many achieving full recovery after six to seven weeks of treatment; however, the current evidence did not support a similar level of benefit from massage therapy.
Neck pain is a very common complaint – approximately 15 percent of women and 10 percent of men are estimated to have chronic neck pain at any one time. According to a report issued by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners, 18 percent of chiropractic patients list neck pain as their chief complaint.
Spinal manipulation, commonly referred to as a chiropractic adjustment, is the main therapeutic procedure performed by doctors of chiropractic. The purpose of manipulation is to restore joint mobility by manually applying a controlled force into joints that have become hypomobile.
Chiropractors practice a hands-on, drug-free approach to health care that includes patient examination, diagnosis and treatment. Chiropractic is widely recognized as one of the safest non-invasive therapies available for the treatment of back pain, neck pain, headaches and other neuromusculoskeletal complaints. In addition, a significant amount of evidence shows that the use of chiropractic care for certain conditions can be more effective and less costly than traditional medical care.
The Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, the premier biomedical publication in the chiropractic profession and the official scientific journal of the American Chiropractic Association, provides the latest information on current research developments, as well as clinically oriented research and practical information for use in clinical settings.
According to Howard Vernon, DC, PhD, the review’s chief author, “The results of the literature review confirm the common clinical experience of doctors of chiropractic: neck manipulation is beneficial for patients with certain forms of chronic neck pain.”
As part of the literature review, Dr. Vernon and his colleagues reviewed nine previously published trials and found “high-quality evidence” that patients with chronic neck pain showed significant pain-level improvements following spinal manipulation. No trial group was reported to remain unchanged, and all groups showed positive changes up to 12 weeks post treatment. No trial reported any serious adverse effects.
This literature review did not include studies involving patients with acute neck pain, neck and arm pain, neck pain due to whiplash, or those with headaches. In this review, chronic neck pain was defined as being a minimum of 8 weeks duration.
Researchers also found that mobilization therapy was beneficial in improving patients’ pain levels, with many achieving full recovery after six to seven weeks of treatment; however, the current evidence did not support a similar level of benefit from massage therapy.
Neck pain is a very common complaint – approximately 15 percent of women and 10 percent of men are estimated to have chronic neck pain at any one time. According to a report issued by the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners, 18 percent of chiropractic patients list neck pain as their chief complaint.
Spinal manipulation, commonly referred to as a chiropractic adjustment, is the main therapeutic procedure performed by doctors of chiropractic. The purpose of manipulation is to restore joint mobility by manually applying a controlled force into joints that have become hypomobile.
Chiropractors practice a hands-on, drug-free approach to health care that includes patient examination, diagnosis and treatment. Chiropractic is widely recognized as one of the safest non-invasive therapies available for the treatment of back pain, neck pain, headaches and other neuromusculoskeletal complaints. In addition, a significant amount of evidence shows that the use of chiropractic care for certain conditions can be more effective and less costly than traditional medical care.
The Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, the premier biomedical publication in the chiropractic profession and the official scientific journal of the American Chiropractic Association, provides the latest information on current research developments, as well as clinically oriented research and practical information for use in clinical settings.
House Passes Bill for Expansion of Chiro in VA
America’s veterans are one step closer to gaining expanded access to chiropractic services after the U.S. House of Representatives passed legislation on May 23 that includes a provision to expedite expansion of the chiropractic benefit through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) health care system. The bill was approved 421:1.
The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) and the Association of Chiropractic Colleges (ACC) lobbied successfully for passage of the bill, HR 1470, which requires the VA to have a chiropractor on staff at no fewer than 75 major VA medical centers before the end of 2009 and for all major VA medical centers to have a chiropractor on staff before the end of 2011.
“I am proud that ACA and ACC spearheaded the advocacy efforts in support of HR 1470,” said ACA President Dr. Richard Brassard. “The health and well-being of our nation’s veterans is one of America's most important obligations. This legislation builds and expands on ACA’s previous work with Congress and will greatly improve the availability of chiropractic care to veterans young and old.”
Congressman Bob Filner (D-Calif.), a strong supporter of extending chiropractic care benefits to military retirees as well as active-duty personnel, worked closely with the ACA in securing support for the legislation. As Chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, Rep. Filner’s leadership was essential to securing House passage of the bill.
According to remarks contained in the March 12, 2007, Congressional Record, Rep. Filner said that when writing the legislation he worked closely with “chiropractic patients, particularly our veterans, who know the benefits of chiropractic care and bear witness to the positive outcomes and preventative health benefits of chiropractic.”
“I also was pleased to work with the American Chiropractic Association (ACA), the nation’s largest chiropractic organization and the national voice of doctors of chiropractic and their patients,” Rep. Filner said.
Through previous congressional action, chiropractic care is now available at 30 VA facilities across the country; however, in the more than 120 facilities without a chiropractor on staff, the chiropractic care benefit that Congress authorized for America’s veterans remains virtually non-existent. Detroit, Denver, and Chicago are a few examples of major metropolitan areas without a doctor of chiropractic available at the local VA facility.
ACA leaders believe that integrating chiropractic treatment into the VA health care system would not only be cost-effective, it would also speed the recovery of many of the veterans returning from current operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. A 2006 report from the Veterans Health Administration indicates that nearly 42 percent of veterans returning from the Middle East and Southwest Asia who have sought VA health care were treated for symptoms associated with musculoskeletal ailments – the top malady of those tracked for the report.
HR 1470 is now headed to the Senate for consideration.
The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) and the Association of Chiropractic Colleges (ACC) lobbied successfully for passage of the bill, HR 1470, which requires the VA to have a chiropractor on staff at no fewer than 75 major VA medical centers before the end of 2009 and for all major VA medical centers to have a chiropractor on staff before the end of 2011.
“I am proud that ACA and ACC spearheaded the advocacy efforts in support of HR 1470,” said ACA President Dr. Richard Brassard. “The health and well-being of our nation’s veterans is one of America's most important obligations. This legislation builds and expands on ACA’s previous work with Congress and will greatly improve the availability of chiropractic care to veterans young and old.”
Congressman Bob Filner (D-Calif.), a strong supporter of extending chiropractic care benefits to military retirees as well as active-duty personnel, worked closely with the ACA in securing support for the legislation. As Chairman of the House Veterans Affairs Committee, Rep. Filner’s leadership was essential to securing House passage of the bill.
According to remarks contained in the March 12, 2007, Congressional Record, Rep. Filner said that when writing the legislation he worked closely with “chiropractic patients, particularly our veterans, who know the benefits of chiropractic care and bear witness to the positive outcomes and preventative health benefits of chiropractic.”
“I also was pleased to work with the American Chiropractic Association (ACA), the nation’s largest chiropractic organization and the national voice of doctors of chiropractic and their patients,” Rep. Filner said.
Through previous congressional action, chiropractic care is now available at 30 VA facilities across the country; however, in the more than 120 facilities without a chiropractor on staff, the chiropractic care benefit that Congress authorized for America’s veterans remains virtually non-existent. Detroit, Denver, and Chicago are a few examples of major metropolitan areas without a doctor of chiropractic available at the local VA facility.
ACA leaders believe that integrating chiropractic treatment into the VA health care system would not only be cost-effective, it would also speed the recovery of many of the veterans returning from current operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. A 2006 report from the Veterans Health Administration indicates that nearly 42 percent of veterans returning from the Middle East and Southwest Asia who have sought VA health care were treated for symptoms associated with musculoskeletal ailments – the top malady of those tracked for the report.
HR 1470 is now headed to the Senate for consideration.
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