For Seth and Megan Bullock, chiropractic is more than a career path. Now students at Sherman College of Chiropractic, they’ve been immersed in the chiropractic lifestyle since day one.

“We were born into chiropractic. That’s all we’ve known since the very beginning,” Megan shares. “It’s always been part of our lifestyle and our family.”

Their dad, Dr. Jacob Bullock, serves as ICA Representative Assembly member for Kentucky, and their uncle, Dr. Ted Bullock, is also a principled chiropractor. But it’s not just family tradition that drives them; it’s conviction.

“We’ve grown up only with the chiropractic thinking,” Megan says. “Especially as you go through big events like COVID… you really learn that’s not how most people think. We really wanted to make sure we could bring that to our own families.”

A deep-rooted desire to serve led them to Sherman College and to participating in the International Chiropractors Association (ICA).

As Seth said, “Our main driver behind that has been Dad’s always talked about just being involved. And there’s no better organization to be involved in than ICA.”

Through ICA, Megan and Seth are finding support, mentorship, and a powerful way to stay grounded in chiropractic’s foundational principles, especially in the pressure cooker of student life.

“You get overworked and flooded with all the material… and it’s so easy to lose your why,” Seth said. “ICA really gives us tools to be able to…focus on what truly matters.”

Megan added,  “While you’re in school, you’re in such a bubble. I wish our world was exactly like our school every day—but that’s just not the reality. Being a part of ICA… they’re going to help you learn how to transition into the real world and teach your community.”

SICA Club at Sherman College

And now, the Bullock siblings are bringing that mission directly to campus:

“In case you didn’t know, we do have a club that just started at Sherman. The Student ICA Club is so excited to be on campus, and we can’t wait to reach out to all of the students and begin sharing all that the ICA has to offer,” said Megan, the club’s vice president.

From adjusting tables beside the kitchen to leadership on campus, the Bullocks are a living example of how legacy and leadership go hand in hand.

Are you a student who believes in chiropractic’s unique philosophy, science, and art? The ICA is your place to lead and grow.

Learn more at https://www.chiropractic.org/ica-membership/ 

Sherman College of Chiropractic

On June 14, 2025, Sherman College celebrated its 149th commencement ceremony, conferring Doctor of Chiropractic degrees on 49 graduates from the June and September cohorts. 

In a heartfelt address, Sherman President Dr. Jack Bourla inspired graduates to carry forward the college’s 52-year legacy of excellence and community impact. The keynote speaker, Dr. Bobby Findley, a longtime Sherman instructor and case doctor, infused the ceremony with wisdom, humor, and clinical insight, grounded in generations of chiropractic tradition. 

Student addresses were delivered by Nofar Gabay Nugent (Israel) and Riley Block (Virginia). 

High honors included Academic Achievement Awards to Nugent and Alex Annis, Service Distinction to Lauren Haar, and Clinical Excellence Awards to Jessica Haven Wood-Duncan and Block. 

Kyle Lange received the esteemed B.J. Palmer Philosophy Distinction Award, exemplifying the spirit of principled leadership.

Life Chiropractic College West

On June 13, 2025, Life Chiropractic College West hosted its 87th Commencement Ceremony—one that will be remembered not only for celebrating the newest class of chiropractic graduates, but for ushering in a powerful new chapter in the college’s legacy.

The two-day celebration in Hayward, California, began with a Champagne Reception and Awards Banquet on Thursday, followed by Friday’s Commencement, where 81 students received their Doctor of Chiropractic degrees, and one earned a Master of Science in Diagnostic Imaging.

In a historic first for the institution, the ceremony featured a live presidential transition, as outgoing President Dr. Ron Oberstein passed the presidential robe and colors to incoming President Dr. Peter Kevorkian—marking a poignant moment of leadership, legacy, and Evolution.

Keynote speaker Dr. Donny Epstein, renowned in the field for his visionary work, delivered an electrifying address, reminding graduates:

“Each of us stands on the shoulders of someone else—and remember, there will be thousands who stand on yours. May the fruit that comes after you be richer than we could have ever imagined.”

Academic honors were awarded to Spring 2025 Valedictorian, Ryan Guenette, Summer 2025 Valedictorians Brianna Connor and Darcy Hiebert, along with Salutatorians Lauren Eads (Spring) and Jaron Hua (Summer). The event was emceed by Provost Dr. Scott Donaldson, and featured musical performances by the Brass View Quintet and graduate Daniela Reyes.

From the heartfelt farewell by Dr. Ron to the inspiring vision of Dr. Peter, Life West’s 87th Commencement served as a bold reflection of the college’s commitment to chiropractic’s future—and to shaping graduates ready to Give. Do. Love. Serve.

Life University

The June 20th, 2025  graduation ceremony at Life University in Marietta welcomed 104 new doctors of chiropractic, along with 94 students who received their Bachelor’s degree and 24 who received their Master’s degree. President Dr. Brian McAulay and Dr. Jaime Davis, Interim Vice President for Academic Affairs, presided over the event. 

Ellis Anthony Davis was honored as the class Valedictorian of the class receiving their Bachelor’s degree, with Doctor of Chiropractic class Valedictorian Miriah Ghislaine Martin. 

Other awards included: Salutatorian – Trenton Zachary Ward, Chiropractic Philosophy Distinction – Michael Christopher Panzarino, Clinic Excellence – Dustin Charles Biggerstaff.

These students were recognized for expressing the Three Life U Values: 

Lasting Purpose: Ellis Anthony Davis, Integrity: Jessica J. Brannan, Vitalism: Hamad Haider Shirazi

At this last graduation, Life University welcomed a fourth member to a family’s plate on the Generations Wall, honoring their father and 3 sons who have graduated from Life University in the last 3 years. They will return next year to welcome their fifth and final brother from the program! There are 70 families currently honored on the wall and all the funds raised from the Generations Wall go to the Generations Legacy Scholarship fund for Life University Students.

Palmer College of Chiropractic – Davenport Campus

The birthplace of chiropractic honored 73 new D.C. graduates at its Class #252 commencement on June 20, 2025. 

The president and faculty saluted the academic excellence and philosophical conviction of this diverse cohort from 28 states and countries. 

Valedictorian honors went to Ryan Timothy Hayter, Tyler Lee Watermann, and Cameron Jay Whitehead, while Colin Connors and Makayla Kaytlynn Kulow earned Salutatorian distinction. 

Eleven graduates were recognized for Academic Excellence, and six earned Summa Cum Laude honors. The Virgil V. Strang Philosophy Award, a hallmark of principled dedication, was awarded to Robin Ostermeier, with Marie Le and Jonathan Hunter Wigington also nominated. 

These graduates now carry forward the legacy of Palmer and the vision of chiropractic’s founders.

Palmer College of Chiropractic – Florida Campus

Palmer Florida’s 77th commencement on June 20 celebrated 44 new Doctors of Chiropractic, representing 15 regions across the globe. 

Dr. Misty Lagasse, a Palmer alumna, delivered the keynote address, igniting a spirit of service and integrity in the graduates. 

Academic accolades included Valedictorian honors for Adam Marogil and Ethan Shim, and Salutatorian for Matthew Gabriel. Eric Daniel Varga received the Virgil V. Strang Philosophy Award, while Miranda Rose Torres earned the Clinical Excellence Award. The James Buerkle Memorial Award was presented to Olivia Anne Cramer-Chavarria, and Alexis Marie Hannah was recognized with the Research Honors Award. 

With 21 graduates earning honors distinctions and 10 achieving Academic Excellence, this class exemplifies the bright future of principled chiropractic.

We also congratulate graduates of other schools with earlier spring commencements. 

Cleveland University Kansas City held its spring commencement on April 24th, 2025. 

As these new doctors take their place in the world, the ICA stands ready to support them with mentorship, leadership opportunities, and a principled global community. We celebrate their achievement and the lifelong service they are prepared to give to humanity through specific, scientific chiropractic care.

We are dedicated to serving chiropractic students during their education journey and throughout their professional careers. 

Learn more about our Student (ICA) program here: https://www.chiropractic.org/ica-membership/ 

ICA CEO, Dr Edwin Cordero stated: “I want to be clear—what’s happening in Montana is exactly why Dr. B.J. Palmer founded the ICA and charged us with guarding the Sacred Trust. This fight was a warning shot—and we all know it won’t be the last. But let me assure you, the ICA will always rise to the occasion and stand firm for principled chiropractic, just as we’ve done throughout this entire legislative battle in Montana.”

Background: Chiropractic legislator Greg Oblander first introduced HB 500 and then HB 929 when the Montana Legislative session opened in January for its 90-day session. The process of introducing and seeing it signed into the law by the Governor has many steps; and as we learned in Montana a bill that has been voted down in committee can be resurrected and a bill that is tabled in committee can be ‘blasted’ to the floor.

The ICA was ‘boots on the ground’ in Montana with Board Member, Dr. Hugo Michael Gibson and Assembly Representative Dr. Donald Gibson both attending and testifying at the State Board meeting the House hearing, and the Senate. Additional ICA doctors in Montana also testified.  They were backed up with the ICA home office, most specifically our CEO and Executive Director.  ICA’s CEO, Dr. Edwin Cordero provided testimony via zoom and the ICA submitted extensive written testimony to both the House and Senate. We did significant outreach first in the House and then in the Senate.  While the legislature does not meet again until 2027, ICA will continue our engagement in Montana. 

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Falls Church, VA — The International Chiropractors Association (ICA) is proud to announce the release of a contemporary definition of vertebral subluxation, following an extensive and collaborative effort within the profession. The new definition is: 

“A chiropractic vertebral subluxation is a potentially reversible or preventable alteration of spinal motion segments from normal alignment or function associated with adverse neurophysiological activity that can be connected to whole person health.” 

This milestone represents a step forward in unifying the profession around language that supports clinical relevance, scientific clarity, and policy alignment. 

“I was so honored to chair a committee that was created by Dr. Selina Sigafoose Jackson to develop a contemporary definition of subluxation that would be accepted by the majority of the profession,” said ICA President Dr. Joe Betz. “It was a more difficult project than anticipated, but I believe the committee produced a definition that is perfectly worded to satisfy the researchers, academics, practitioners and policy makers. 

“The new contemporary definition of subluxation is vital because it aligns chiropractic care with current scientific understanding, enhancing credibility within healthcare. It provides a clearer framework for patient care, research, and communication, strengthening the profession’s role in modern health systems.” 

The definition is the result of months of deliberation, review of scientific literature, and consultation across diverse sectors of the chiropractic community. It is designed to support greater understanding and consistency in chiropractic education, clinical practice, research, and health policy. 

As chiropractic continues to advocate for non-drug, non-surgical approaches to health, the ICA believes this modernized definition will help chiropractors communicate and contextualize vertebral subluxation in today’s healthcare landscape. 

For more information, visit www.chiropractic.org.

A chiropractic vertebral subluxation is a potentially reversible or preventable alteration of spinal motion segments from normal alignment or function associated with adverse neurophysiological activity that can be connected to whole person health.

Media Contact: 
Beth Clay, Executive Director 
bclay@chiropractic.org 
(703) 528-5000 

Fox News broadcast a story in which our own ICA Council on Pediatrics President, Dr. Lora Tanis was quoted regarding chiropractic care for babies. The story, “Ohio baby ‘smiling again’ after chiropractic adjustments, parents say — but is it safe?” shared the amazing but – as our Pediatrics Diplomate doctors know – all too common story of a child who benefited from chiropractic care. The second story “How a ‘chiropractic adjustment’ finally helped Max Muncy return to the Dodgers” shares the story the integral role of chiropractic in the combined health professions efforts to return a star professional athlete to the lineup.

Both stories detail how chiropractic was not the first line of care, but the care of last resort – and in the pediatrics story, as we always see, a medical doctor with no training in the science, art, or philosophy of chiropractic is quoted with an attempt to plant doubt in the public’s mindset about the safety and benefit of chiropractic care across the lifespan.

It is times like these that I am reminded that we – the ICA and the chiropractic profession – need to constantly be responsible for defining ourselves and not allow others to take that power and responsibility from us.

Don’t let others define you. Don’t let the past confine you. Take charge of your life with confidence and determination and there are no limits on what you can do or be.

Michael Josephson, Founder of Josephson Institute of Ethics

The International Chiropractors Association has been and remains the moderate voice in the chiropractic profession. We stand stalwart in our protection and promotion of the chiropractic profession as a separate and distinct profession with its own science, art, and philosophy. We unapologetically respect and protect this system of healing and the underlying premise that it is founded on – that identification and correction of the vertebral subluxation removes the barriers of communication from the brain to every cell in the body so that the body’s own innate is freed up to focus on recovery and optimal health and life expression.

You, as a doctor of chiropractic or chiropractor, hold within your hands the ability to facilitate health through the chiropractic adjustment. It is time to recognize and give voice to the fact that chiropractic care is both patient-centered and evidence-based.

History shows us that assumptions made about chiropractic care have been wrong. An example of that is the long-standing presumption within states that providing coverage of chiropractic care for lower back pain-related injuries in Worker’s Compensation Programs would increase costs. In the 1990s, many states, faced with dramatically increasing medicals costs in Workman’s Comp claims, restricted reimbursement of chiropractic care because they believed the assumption of increased costs without evidence. Fast forward a quarter century and the Workman’s Compensation Research Institute (WCRI) conducted a study to determine if this the assumption was true. The findings were published in 2022 and reported that the average medical cost-per-claim for injured workers with lower back pain who were treated exclusively by a chiropractor was 61% less than for those who received no chiropractic treatment. Another finding of this study was that the utilization of chiropractic – and the resulting cost savings – was higher in states where the individual was able to choose their course of care rather than the employer or the state.

Research is Something to Get Excited About: The growing research record on the clinical- and cost-effectiveness of chiropractic validates the call from the chiropractic community and the public to improve and increase access to chiropractic care more equitably in federally managed or funded health systems and programs, particularly Medicare. While regular chiropractic care has a whole person effect, it is most widely known as a first line of care for back and neck pain and that is where most of the research evidence exists so far. As you know, chiropractic care falls into the category of “conservative care” from chronic and acute pain issues and is considered preferable as a first line of care over pharmacological and more invasive medical interventions.

While chiropractors use the term “chiropractic adjustment,” many researchers use “spinal manipulation therapy” or SMT. Data show that those who seek chiropractic care first are more than 50% less likely to fill an opioid prescription. In 2004, back pain accounted for more than $100 billion in annual US health care costs and is the second leading cause of physician visits and hospitalizations.[1] By 2014, the costs for back pain annual were in excess of $200 billion.[2] The costs continue to increase.

Below is a small snapshot of some of the important studies pointing to the value of chiropractic and its cost-savings.

Thirty years ago, research concluded that if chiropractic care were insured to the extent of other medical specialties, it would likely emerge as a first option for many patients with certain medical conditions. They also believed this could result in a decrease in the overall treatment costs for these conditions. The outcomes from economic assessment conducted at the College of William & Mary and the Medical College of Virginia of mandated health insurance coverage for chiropractic treatment within the Commonwealth of Virginia found chiropractic care to be a lower cost option for back-related ailments. The study reported that:

• The low cost of chiropractic is due not to its low rate of use, but to its apparently offsetting impacts on costs in the face of high rates of utilization.
• Formal studies of the cost, effectiveness, or both of chiropractic, usually measured against other forms of treatment, show it to compare favorably with them.
• By every test of cost and effectiveness, the general weight of evidence shows chiropractic to provide important therapeutic benefits, at economical costs.
• Additionally, these benefits are achieved with apparently minimal, even negligible, impacts on the costs of health insurance.[3]

More recent studies conclude:

2022: Health care utilization and costs for low back pain:

• Total cost of care was lowest for individuals who first saw a chiropractor ($5093) compared to primary care physicians ($5660) and highest for individuals who saw Orthopedic specialist ($9434) first.
• Expensive MRIs have been shown to be used more by Orthopedic specialists (Ortho) and physical medicine and rehabilitation doctors (PM&R), with significantly less MRI for chiropractors (Chiro) over the 1-year follow-up.
• The variances seen in early- and long-term opioid prescriptions rates are concerning given the ongoing opioid crisis. The study demonstrated that patients first seeing Emergency Medicine physicians (EM), PM&R, and advanced practice registered nurse (APRN) initially had higher early and long-term opioids prescription rates than Chiros.[4]

2022: A first of its kind study in France of participants who presented with chronic musculoskeletal pain and depressive symptoms in a hospital setting. Most participants were satisfied with the chiropractic care they received at the hospital and would recommend it for varied reasons. One participant stated, “In terms of efficiency, for me it was quite spectacular, it did me a lot of good, so I highly recommend it.”[5]

2021: An analysis of Medicare healthcare expenditures for patients who received long-term treatment of chronic low back pain (cLBP) with either opioid analgesic therapy (OAT) or spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) (chiropractic). Adults aged 65 to 84 who initiated long-term treatment for cLBP via OAT incurred lower long-term costs for low back pain but higher long-term total healthcare costs under Medicare compared with patients who initiated long-term treatment with SMT.[6]

2021: Chiropractic is a leading conservative management approach to chronic primary back and neck pain. This study notes that SMT as a preferred conservative management approach increasingly recommended by conventional medical organizations.[7-9]

2021: The Journal of the American Medical Association provides the following patient recommendation: “For patients with chronic low back pain, priority should be given to nondrug treatments combined with exercise. According to the ACP, therapies to combine with exercise include multidisciplinary rehabilitation, acupuncture, mindfulness-based stress reduction, tai chi, yoga, motor control exercises, progressive relaxation, electromyographic biofeedback, low-level laser therapy, cognitive behavior therapy, and spinal manipulation.”[10]

2020: A study analyzing chiropractic care versus physical therapy (PT), found:

• Higher satisfaction rates in patients visiting chiropractors.
• In the short term, chiropractic care is a more cost-effective alternative compared to PT for the treatment of acute low back pain. Chiropractic resulted in a lower cost ($48.56).
• Chiropractic had a higher daily adjusted life years (DALY) than the PT over a one-month treatment period and five months follow-up.[11]

Sources Cited:

1. Legorreta, A.P., et al., Comparative analysis of individuals with and without chiropractic coverage: patient characteristics, utilization, and costs. Arch Intern Med, 2004. 164(18): p. 1985-92.
2. Ma, V.Y., L. Chan, and K.J. Carruthers, Incidence, prevalence, costs, and impact on disability of common conditions requiring rehabilitation in the United States: stroke, spinal cord injury, traumatic brain injury, multiple sclerosis, osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, limb loss, and back pain. Arch Phys Med Rehabil, 2014. 95(5): p. 986-995 e1.
3. Schifrin, L.G., Mandated Health Insurance Coverage for Chiropractic Treatment: An Economic Assessment, with Implications for the Commonwealth of Virginia. 1992, The College of William and Mary: Virginia.
4. Harwood, K.J., et al., Where to start? A two stage residual inclusion approach to estimating influence of the initial provider on health care utilization and costs for low back pain in the US. BMC Health Serv Res, 2022. 22(1): p. 694.
5. F, M., et al., Characteristics, expectations, experiences of care, and satisfaction of patients receiving chiropractic care in a French University Hospital in Toulouse (France) over one year: a case study. BMC Musculoskelet Disord, 2022. 23(1): p. 229.
6. Whedon, J.M., et al., Long-Term Medicare Costs Associated With Opioid Analgesic Therapy vs Spinal Manipulative Therapy for Chronic Low Back Pain in a Cohort of Older Adults. J Manipulative Physiol Ther, 2021. 44(7): p. 519-526.
7. Gevers-Montoro, C., et al., Clinical Effectiveness and Efficacy of Chiropractic Spinal Manipulation for Spine Pain. Front Pain Res (Lausanne), 2021. 2: p. 765921.
8. Foster, N.E., et al., Prevention and treatment of low back pain: evidence, challenges, and promising directions. Lancet, 2018. 391(10137): p. 2368-2383.
9. Corp, N., et al., Evidence-based treatment recommendations for neck and low back pain across Europe: A systematic review of guidelines. Eur J Pain, 2021. 25(2): p. 275-295.
10. Traeger, A.C., A. Qaseem, and J.H. McAuley, Low Back Pain. JAMA, 2021. 326(3): p. 286.
11. Khodakarami, N., Treatment of Patients with Low Back Pain: A Comparison of Physical Therapy and Chiropractic Manipulation. Healthcare (Basel), 2020. 8(1).

Falls Church – September 11, 2023 – A groundbreaking study recently published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine by several members of the International Chiropractors Association (ICA) sheds light on the interplay between chiropractic care and the immune system. The study, “Observation of Changes in Secretory Immunoglobulin A (SIgA) after Upper Cervical Adjusting Techniques,” investigates the effects of upper cervical adjusting techniques (UCATs) on the levels of secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) in the body. Conducted by a team of experts led by Philip R. Schalow, DC, DCCJP, this research delves into previously uncharted territory, exploring how chiropractic care influences the immune response through SIgA variations. 

SIgA is a significant immunoglobulin found in mucosal secretions, contributing to the immune system’s first line of defense against pathogens. This research not only provides insights into the immune response but also highlights the potential implications for the broader understanding of chiropractic care’s effects on health and wellness. 

The study’s key findings include: 

1. Positive Impact of UCAT Treatment: The research demonstrates a substantial increase in SIgA levels within 30 minutes after a UCAT treatment at the craniocervical junction (CCJ). This immediate elevation indicates a potential activation of the immune system following the chiropractic procedure. 

2. Temporal Nature of the Response: While the increase in SIgA levels is temporary, it signifies the potential of chiropractic care to trigger a systemic immune response for a brief period after treatment. 

3. Longitudinal Investigation: Unlike previous cross-sectional studies, this research takes a unique approach by investigating SIgA levels longitudinally in human subjects, offering new insights into the dynamics of the immune response over time. 

Dr. Schalow said, “Our study opens a new chapter in understanding the intricate relationship between chiropractic care and the immune system. The immediate elevation of SIgA levels following UCAT procedures underscores the potential impact of these specific chiropractic procedures on immune responses. Our study opens a new chapter in understanding the intricate relationship between chiropractic care, the immune system and mental health.” 

The implications of this study resonate with both the chiropractic and medical communities, raising questions about the broader effects of chiropractic care on health and wellbeing. As SIgA levels reflect not only the mucosal immune system but also systemic immunity, the findings suggest that chiropractic care might have broader implications for immune modulation. 

Chiropractic care’s influence on the nervous system is also explored in the study. The intricate connections between the nervous, immune, and endocrine systems have long been subjects of scientific inquiry and this research contributes by indicating a possible link between chiropractic adjustments and immune responses mediated by the central nervous system. 

Project supervisor Dr. Julie Mayer-Hunt said, “We are just scratching the surface of understanding how chiropractic care may impact the immune system through neurological pathways. This study sparks further exploration into the complex mechanisms underlying these effects.” 

The study acknowledges its limitations, such as the small sample size and the two-week follow-up period. However, it provides a foundation for future research in this exciting field. To read the entirety of the study, click here. 

This novel study underscores the dynamic nature of healthcare research, revealing new perspectives on the potential whole-body effects of chiropractic care. As the healthcare landscape continues to evolve, research efforts like this contribute to a deeper understanding of the body’s interconnected systems and the role chiropractic care might play in enhancing overall wellbeing. 

FALLS CHURCH, VA, USA, April 4, 2023/EINPresswire.com/ — Dr. Curtis Fedorchuk, Author of Groundbreaking Study on Pediatric Spondylolisthesis Presenting at the Annual Convention of the International Chiropractors Association April 22nd

The International Chiropractors Association (ICA) is pleased to announce Dr. Curtis Fedorchuk will be presenting at the 2023 Annual Convention being held in Las Vegas April 20-22. Dr. Fedorchuk is the lead author of the 2021 paper, “Prevalence of Cervical Spondylolisthesis in the Sagittal Plane Using Radiographic Imaging in a Pediatric Population: A Cross Sectional Analysis of Vertebral Subluxation”[1], featured as the Journal of Radiology Case Report’s cover story.

This is the first paper reporting on the epidemiology of subluxation in children. With 342 subjects, the study is currently the largest x-ray study ever published on pediatrics and subluxation.

The researchers’ finding that regular spinal radiographic exams may help identify serious spinal conditions in their pre-symptomatic state is significant. It highlights the need for doctors of chiropractic to check children regularly prior to symptom onset, to prevent more serious conditions from developing. Dr. Fedorchuk’s research team provides valuable insights into the early detection and management of pediatric spondylolisthesis, a condition which affects many young people.

This study has far-reaching implications for the chiropractic profession and provides a solid foundation for further research into the field.

“This is the first time the prevalence of subluxation has been documented and published, and it shows children can sustain injury and have no symptoms,” said Dr. Fedorchuk. “Isn’t that what we drive home to students in school? Don’t treat symptoms, find subluxations. When the bones shift forward, truly out of alignment, that is something that needs to be addressed. The neurological implications with abnormal biomechanics are well documented and thus it is imperative they receive proper care.”

This is an important step in studying and treating subluxation in children.

“This is only the beginning,” said Dr. Fedorchuk. “We have bigger data sets in the thousands, already analyzed that are going to be published soon.”

The ICA Convention is a unique opportunity for chiropractors to come together, learn from experts in the field, and discuss the latest research and developments in chiropractic care.

“ICA is pleased to provide a forum for the top scientists in chiropractic to present to the profession,” said Beth Clay, ICA Executive Director. “Dr. Fedorchuk’s research underscores the importance of regular chiropractic care including for children. He will be speaking on Saturday and sharing the latest research.”

For more information on the ICA’s 2023 Annual Convention and to register, please visit https://icaevents.org/convention2023.

1. Fedorchuk, C., et al., Prevalence of Cervical Spondylolisthesis in the Sagittal Plane Using Radiographic Imaging in a Pediatric Population: A Cross Sectional Analysis of Vertebral Subluxation. J Radiol Case Rep, 2021. 15(6): p. 1-18.

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Dr. Chestnut is the founder and lead faculty member of the ICA’s Council on Evidence-Based and Lifestyle certification program, which replaces the former ICA Wellness Council, founded by Dr. Chestnut in 2004.  In addition to receiving his Doctor of Chiropractic degree from Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in 2000, Dr. Chestnut holds a Master of Science in exercise physiology with a specialization in neuromuscular adaptation, a Bachelor of Education, and the Evidence-Based Chiropractic and Lifestyle Practitioner certification from the ICA.

Dr. Chestnut has lectured to both practitioners and the public around the world on the scientific evidence regarding the clinical effectiveness and safety of chiropractic, the neurophysiological effects of VSC/motion unit dysfunction and chiropractic adjustment, the validity and logic of the chiropractic health paradigm, the evidence of the primary causal impact of lifestyle on health, and the clinical implementation of evidence-based assessment and care. Dr. Chestnut is a recipient of the ICA “Researcher of the Year” for 2005, “Educator of the Year” for 2007, the Stuart Rynsburger Award for Outstanding Service to Chiropractic from the United Chiropractic Association in the U.K. for 2016, and the Canadian Chiropractic Scientist of the Year Award from Life University in 2020.

In making the announcement, Dr. Sigafoose-Jackson said, “The evidence is clear: globally, 80% of chronic diseases are related to lifestyle, and as chiropractors we have an integral role in helping curtail this epidemic of preventable illness and suffering. Dr. Chestnut has taken a leading role in post-graduate education for doctors of chiropractic in this important field.”  

The ICA is hosting a webinar with Dr. Chestnut on August 22, 2022: “The Importance and Relevance of Lifestyle with Respect to Baseline Health, Immune Function, and Current and Future Pandemics.” See more information and register here.

The ICA is the oldest continuously active international chiropractic organization in the world. Founded in 1926 by Dr. B.J. Palmer, the ICA represents the chiropractic community, and supports and advances the interests of chiropractic, chiropractors, and the patients they serve through advocacy, research, and education.

Throughout its long history, the ICA has continued to educate and inform the public, other health care professions, and health policy makers on the principles and definitions of chiropractic to foster clarity for a broader understanding and acceptance of the profession as a distinct healing philosophy, science, and art. To learn more about the ICA, please visit, https://www.chiropractic.org.

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June 16, 2022 (Falls Church, VA)  This past weekend, Julie Mayer Hunt, DC, FCCJP, DICCP of Mayer Chiropractic in Clearwater, Florida was named the Upper Cervical Researcher of the Year at the FORUM – the ICA Council on Upper Cervical Care Annual Conference held at the Hilton Marietta, Georgia Conference Center.  Dr. Mayer Hunt was honored for her long history of leadership in advancing basic and clinical research in the field of upper cervical chiropractic. Her latest published study is entitled, “Secretory Immunoglobulin A and Upper Cervical Chiropractic: A Preliminary Prospective, Multicenter, Observational Study”[i]  This study breaks new ground in expanding our understanding of the effect of the upper cervical adjusting techniques on the immune response.  

On learning of Dr. Mayer Hunt’s award, Dr. Selina Sigafoose Jackson, ICA Board President stated, “Dr. Mayer Hunt is such a gift to our profession AND to the ICA. Having such a mind on our board and in our profession allows for the opportunity to advance our profession in ways that we always knew could happen but now IS happening. Thank you, Dr. Mayer Hunt for your dedication and discipline to the rigors of science and documentation that is proving what we all know, Chiropractic Works!”

Study Objective:  The objective of the study was to observe changes in secretory IgA (SIgA) after providing an adjustment to the craniocervical junction, using an upper cervical adjusting technique. Five different techniques were used: Atlas Orthogonal, Blair, Knee Chest, NUCCA, and Orthospinology, and all adjusting doctors had extensive experience in their technique and have achieved either a Diplomate or Fellow status in the ICA’s Chiropractic Craniocervical Junction Procedures program. SIgA was measured in saliva samples. Participants were recruited from five chiropractic practices between January and June 2019.

Why was SIgA Measured?  Measuring SIgA was selected because it is a key component of the innate immune system, which provides a nonspecific, first-line defense against numerous pathogens. SIgA is the most abundant immunoglobulin in the human body and plays an important role in protecting mucosal surfaces in the intestines, respiratory tract, and urogenital tract from microorganisms. As microorganisms typically enter the body via these mucosal surfaces, the role of SIgA in protecting them is crucial in preventing illness.

Samples were gathered at three intervals from each patient to measure the SIgA before the patient’s first adjustment, 30 minutes after the adjustment, and again after two weeks. This study found an immediate increase in SIgA after an adjustment to the craniocervical junction. Two weeks after the adjustment, samples indicated that the SIgA returned to baseline.

Additional to the SIgA measurement, the SF-12v2 health survey was also collected before the first adjustment and after two weeks[ii].  This survey is a commonly used measure of health-related quality of life (HRQOL).  Significant improvements were observed in both the physical and mental components of the SF-12v2 health score at the two-week time point. 

This study is among the first to investigate SIgA samples longitudinally in human subjects and may be the first to evaluate SIgA after the upper cervical adjustment. The results of this study have powerful implications for chiropractic. As SIgA is thought to be a marker for the status of not only the mucosal immune system but also systemic immunity, the observed increase in SIgA may indicate activation of the systemic immune system.

A First Step – More Research Needed:  These findings suggest that a systemic immune response is activated within 30 minutes after an upper cervical adjustment in healthy individuals. While future research is needed to explore the mechanism behind this finding, this study serves as a preliminary study for further research into the relationship between immune function and adjustments to the upper neck.

In discussing the study, Dr. Mayer Hunt stated, “This project answers several of our questions, while raising new questions that can be explored in future studies.  These include inquiry into the lifestyle variables influencing outcomes in patients, a greater understanding of why mental health scores improved, and the role of sleep and rest in immune function related outcomes.”

ICA Executive Director, Beth Clay stated, “This study is an example of the powerful outcomes that come from research collaboration among our ICA doctors and the value of multi-site practice-based research. This important study was designed and conducted well before the WHO declaration of a global pandemic.  We caution that no specific claims can or should be inferred or made outright at this time.  This study is a building block that should lead to future studies that replicate and expand upon the information gleaned by this team of experts. While having no direct role in the design or conducting of the study, the ICA is pleased the goals of the  ICA’s Chiropractic Craniocervical Junction Procedures program – increased networking and research participation are coming to fruition.  We also thank the Sherman College of Chiropractic’s Institutional Review Board and all the authors of this important paper.  This study is published ‘Open Access” in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine and is available to be read in its entirety at https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcm.2021.10.003”

[i] Schalow, P. R., Kimball, K. A., Schurger, F. T., Sooley, G. R., Bales, S. P., Rochester, R. P., Brooks, R. T., & Hunt, J. M. (2021). Secretory Immunoglobulin A and Upper Cervical Chiropractic: A Preliminary Prospective, Multicenter, Observational Study. Journal of chiropractic medicine, 20(3), 121–127. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jcm.2021.10.003

[ii] The Short Form Health Survey version 2 (SF-12v2) is a commonly used measure of health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is SF-12v2 is easy to use, reliable, and valid.  Al Omari O, Alkhawaldeh A, ALBashtawy M, Qaddumi J, Holm MB, AlOmari D. A Review of the Short Form Health Survey-Version 2. J Nurs Meas. 2019 Apr 1;27(1):77-86. doi: 10.1891/1061-3749.27.1.77. PMID: 31068492.

Thank you to all of the authors of this important paper!

Are you interested in supporting basic science, practice based, and clinical research related to the chiropractic adjustment? If so, please consider donating today. In 2022, the ICA is seeking to have garnered enough research resources to support research evaluating the immune response of regular chiropractic care as a part of the whole person effect of regular chiropractic care research goals we have.

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