Subluxation: dogma or science?

ObjectiveThe purpose of this paper is to discuss various statements related to chiropractic identity from1 D. D. Palmer2; selected chiropractic organizations, associations, and colleges; and3 attitudes and perceptions of chiropractic from chiropractic students, practitioners, and patients.DiscussionFor comparison purposes, identity statements and perceptions from the various chiropractic associations and colleges, as well as from students and patients, were explored. Identity statements for chiropractic were searched in various sources such as Palmer’s 1910 textbook, recent literature on viewpoints from chiropractic students and practitioners, and websites for chiropractic colleges and organizations. Palmer taught that the chiropractor’s focus was on vertebral subluxation. Today, a number of chiropractic colleges and organizations continue to include the vertebral subluxation model in their instruction, with a majority of students and practitioners subscribing to the model. Conversely, a number of other colleges and organizations portray chiropractic as being essentially about the treatment of back and neck pain, which is what patients associate with chiropractic. However, settling on any particular identity for the chiropractic profession will likely be met with resistance by some, given the plethora of opinions among chiropractic professionals as to what the identity of the chiropractic profession should be. Common ground between the different factions within the chiropractic profession might be found in a unifying expression such as “functional neurology.”ConclusionWhen a profession’s identity is not clear with respect to its area of interest and mission, then the public may be less inclined to seek its services. Identifying the chiropractic profession with a focus on vertebral subluxation would give the profession uniqueness not duplicated by other health care professions and, therefore, might legitimatize the existence of chiropractic as a health care profession. An identity having a focus on vertebral subluxation would also be consistent with the original intent of the founding of the chiropractic profession.

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Analysis and Adjustment of Vertebral Subluxation as a Separate and Distinct Identity for the Chiropractic Profession: A Commentary

Hart

2016

“…A fierce sense of individuality, a fear of being subsumed, a determination to uphold the traditions and philosophy of chiropractic, and a history of persecution have all contributed to chiropractic’s persona. However, internal division and disagreements over philosophy have prevented a clear sense of professional authority from emerging 19 . All too often, external criticism of the chiropractic profession has led it to “circle the wagons and fire inward,” much to the delight of its detractors.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Spinal Health: The Backbone of Chiropractic’s Identity

Brown

2016

ObjectivesThe purpose of this commentary is to explore the concepts underpinning professional identity, assess their relevance to chiropractic, and propose a model by which a strong identity for the chiropractic profession may be achieved.DiscussionThe professional identity of chiropractic has been a constant source of controversy throughout its history. Attempts to establish a professional identity have been met with resistance from internal factions divided over linguistics, philosophy, technique, and chiropractic’s place in the health care framework. Consequently, the establishment of a clear identity has been challenging, and the chiropractic profession has failed to capitalize on its potential as the profession of spine care experts. Recent identity consultations have produced similar statements that position chiropractors as spinal health and well-being experts. Adoption of this identity, however, has not been universal, perpetuating the uncertainty with which the public regards the chiropractic profession.ConclusionTo gain public and professional acceptance, chiropractic must be unequivocal in declaring its scope, expertise, and intent. Failure to do so will lead to obscurity as other professions acquire necessary skills and position themselves as the custodians of spine care.

“…Intraprofessional feuds have raged over just how exclusive this focus should be 26 . Much like the evolution of the subluxation concept, the approach to health promotion, disease, and injury has evolved at LACC.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

“…Ninety-four percent of SM for which reimbursement is sought in the United States is delivered by doctors of chiropractic 26, 28. Keeping in mind that SM is a primary treatment approach, the development of exceptional palpation skills is a fundamental diagnostic proficiency taught at LACC.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Professional Identity at Los Angeles College of Chiropractic

Kimura

Russell

Scaringe

2016

ObjectiveThe objective of this article is to describe chiropractic professional identity as espoused by the Los Angeles College of Chiropractic.DiscussionProfessional identity is a construct that begins formation prior to career selection, can be considered the backbone of health care education, and has been linked to career success. Los Angeles College of Chiropractic’s professional identity is shaped by a philosophy of health care that is focused on vitalism, holism, naturalism, therapeutic conservatism, critical rationalism, phenomenology, humanism, and interprofessionalism. Other distinguishing aspects include portal-of-entry professionals with broad diagnostic skills; a focus on spine care; promotion of public-health; and delivery of manual treatments.ConclusionThe chiropractic professional identity at the Los Angeles College of Chiropractic focuses on serving the needs of the people who entrust their health to its graduates and will continue to evolve on the basis of many factors, such as politics, social perceptions, and economic conditions.