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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