How to Stay Motivated and Thrive as a Chiropractor
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
Hey chiropractors! Staying motivated daily is key to achieving success in chiropractic practice. As a chiropractor myself, I know how challenging it can be to maintain motivation in this fast-paced and demanding profession. Here are some tips on how to stay motivated daily in your chiropractic practice:
- Set clear and achievable goals: As chiropractors, we all have different goals we want to achieve in our practice. Whether it’s increasing patient volume, improving patient outcomes, or expanding our services, it’s important to set clear and achievable goals. Break down your goals into smaller, actionable steps, and track your progress regularly. Celebrate each milestone you reach, no matter how small it may be.
- Find your purpose: Knowing your purpose as a chiropractor can provide you with the drive and motivation needed to serve your patients to the best of your abilities. Take some time to reflect on why you became a chiropractor, and how your work aligns with your values and beliefs. This can help you stay focused on your mission and inspire you to keep going, even during challenging times.
- Create a routine: Establishing a routine can help you stay organized and focused in your chiropractic practice. Start your day with a routine that includes patient assessments, adjustments, and follow-up care. Set aside time for administrative tasks, such as record-keeping and billing, and make time for personal and professional development.
- Surround yourself with positivity: The people you surround yourself with can have a significant impact on your motivation levels. Surround yourself with positive and supportive colleagues who inspire you to be the best chiropractor you can be. Attend conferences, seminars, and networking events to connect with like-minded individuals and learn from experts in the field.
- Celebrate your successes: Celebrating your successes, no matter how small they may be, can provide you with the motivation needed to keep going. Take time to reflect on patient success stories and recognize the hard work and effort you put in to help your patients achieve their health goals.
- Practice self-care: Practicing self-care is essential for maintaining motivation and avoiding burnout in chiropractic practice. Make sure to prioritize self-care activities, such as getting enough sleep, exercising regularly, and taking time for hobbies and relaxation. This can help you recharge your batteries and bring your best self to your practice every day.
- Stay focused on the present: Chiropractic practice can be demanding, and it’s easy to get caught up in the past or worry about the future. Staying focused on the present moment can help you stay motivated and provide the best care for your patients. Focus on the patient in front of you, and try not to get overwhelmed by the bigger picture.
Staying motivated daily in chiropractic practice requires effort and commitment, but it is essential for achieving success and providing the best care for your patients. By setting clear goals, finding your purpose, creating a routine, surrounding yourself with positivity, celebrating your successes, practicing self-care, and staying focused on the present, you can maintain a consistent level of motivation and thrive in your chiropractic practice.
Seven Essentials For Growth in Chiropractic Practice
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
Listening to my mentors and chiropractors of old was the greatest thing I ever did for growing my chiropractic practice. Twenty five (plus) years later, I can tell you these 7 Essentials continue to return dividends.
- Wake Up Early
- Affirmations
- Cold Shower Mondays
- See New Patients
- Workout Daily
- Plan Your Meals
- Live in Gratitude
Awaken your animal spirit and start your week right!
Wake Up Early – before anyone else in your home (I like between 3:30am to 4:30am). This provides an opportunity to set your week, and this is essential to do on Monday (if you see patients that day).
Affirmations – If you’re not doing affirmations, you’re affirming failure, it’s that simple. Get on what works for you and get to it.
The most powerful affirmation I had for years in practice was…
2 in the morning, 2 in the afternoon
Cold Shower Monday – Where do you think all these guru bros got this idea? Chiropractors have been sharing this tip for decades, and it works. Set your intention (like a new patient Monday morning) and take cold showers until the intention is fulfilled. This is magical.
See New Patients – Notice the pattern here? Waking up early is about seeing new patients, morning affirmations are about seeing new patients, cold showers are about seeing new patients. Guess what’s going to happen?
Workout Daily – As chiropractors, we are blessed to be moving nearly all day. We have to stay fit mentally, spiritually, and physically. Some form of daily movement (besides adjusting loads of patients daily) is essential. Lift, run, Pilates, yoga, stretch, etc. Unfit chiropractors do not last, get on it daily.
Plan Your Meals – What’s going to separate you from the carb loaded half a sleep doctor down the street? Plan your meals for the week (I love Sunday for this most) and make it a routine you follow. Bonus if you do this for others in your household. Whoever brings in the groceries, runs the home.
Live in Gratitude – I save the best for last and the old timers know this one best. There’s momentum in doing all the things I mentioned above. Live in gratitude that everything you are seeking in practice is seeking you. Follow the routines, do the work, put in the effort.
Have an amazing day!
Setting Business Goals and SWOT Analysis
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
Setting goals is an important part of running any successful business. Goals give your business direction, help you stay focused, and provide a way to measure progress and success. Whether you’re just starting out or you’re an established business looking to grow, setting clear and achievable goals can help you achieve your desired outcomes.
While this applies to Chiropractic Businesses, I’m generalizing for others visiting that may want to learn more about how we set goals in practice.
Before you start setting goals, it’s important to take the time to assess your current situation and identify your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. This process, known as a SWOT analysis, can help you understand your business’s unique position and determine the best course of action.
Once you’ve completed your SWOT analysis, you’re ready to start setting goals. Here are some tips to help you get started:
- Make sure your goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. This acronym, known as SMART, is a common framework for setting goals that are clear and actionable.
- Start with long-term goals and work your way down to shorter-term goals. This will help you break down your overall vision into manageable steps and make it easier to track your progress.
- Involve your team in the goal-setting process. Your employees are a valuable resource and their input can help ensure that your goals are realistic and achievable.
- Prioritize your goals and focus on the ones that will have the biggest impact on your business. It’s better to concentrate on a few key goals than to try to tackle too many at once.
- Be flexible and adapt to changes. Your business is likely to face challenges and obstacles along the way, and it’s important to be able to adjust your goals and strategies as needed.
- Review your goals regularly and make adjustments as needed. This will help you stay on track and make sure you’re making progress towards your desired outcomes.
- Celebrate your successes and learn from your failures. Goal-setting is a process, and it’s important to recognize your achievements and use setbacks as opportunities for growth and improvement.
Setting business goals can be a challenging but it is an essential and rewarding process. By taking the time to assess your current situation, identify your priorities, and set specific, achievable goals, you can give your business the direction and focus it needs to succeed.
Wishing you all the best of success!
The Benefits of Waking Up Early
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
The benefits of waking up early are numerous and well-documented. For many people, starting the day early can provide a sense of accomplishment and productivity that can set the tone for the rest of the day. Let’s explore some of the key benefits of waking up early, along with some tips for making the most of your mornings.
One of the primary benefits of waking up early is that it can give you more time in the day to focus on your goals and priorities. When you start the day early, you have the opportunity to tackle your to-do list and make progress on important tasks before the demands of the day begin to pile up. This can help you feel more in control of your time and your life, and can make it easier to achieve your goals.
Another benefit of waking up early is that it can help you establish a healthy morning routine. When you start the day early, you have the time to prioritize self-care and focus on activities that can help you feel energized and ready to tackle the day ahead. This might include things like exercise, meditation, or simply taking a few minutes to enjoy a cup of coffee or tea in peace and quiet. By establishing a healthy morning routine, you can set the stage for a more productive and fulfilling day.
In addition to providing more time and a healthy routine, waking up early can also help you improve your physical health. When you start the day early, you have the opportunity to get a good night’s sleep, which is essential for maintaining good health. Adequate sleep can help boost your immune system, improve your mood, and even help you maintain a healthy weight. Furthermore, when you start the day early, you’re more likely to have time for physical activity, which can help you stay fit and healthy.
Waking up early can also have psychological benefits. For many people, starting the day early can help reduce stress and anxiety. When you get a head start on the day, you’re less likely to feel rushed and overwhelmed, which can help you stay calm and focused. Additionally, the early morning hours are often quieter and more peaceful than the rest of the day, which can provide a sense of solitude and tranquility that can help you start the day with a clear mind.
Waking up early can also provide social benefits. When you start the day early, you have the opportunity to connect with friends and loved ones before the demands of the day begin to intrude. This can help you build and maintain strong relationships, which can have a positive impact on your overall well-being. Starting the day early can also give you the opportunity to be a role model for others, showing them the benefits of waking up early and inspiring them to establish their own healthy morning routines.
So, how can you start waking up early and reap the benefits for yourself? Here are a few tips to get you started:
- Start small. If you’re not used to waking up early, it can be overwhelming to try to jump right into a 5:00 a.m. wake-up time. Instead, start small and gradually adjust your wake-up time. Try setting your alarm 15 minutes earlier each day until you reach your desired wake-up time.
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine. In order to wake up feeling rested and refreshed, it’s important to get a good night’s sleep. To do this, establish a relaxing bedtime routine that will help you wind down and prepare for sleep. This might include things like reading, listening to calming music, or practicing relaxation techniques like deep breathing.
- Avoid screens before bed. The blue light emitted by electronic devices can disrupt your body’s natural sleep patterns.
Nearly every chiropractor I know wakes up early so they can start the day with energy to serve patients. Ask your chiropractor about the importance of getting a good nights sleep, getting up early, and getting adjusted regularly.
Discover the Power of Self-Awareness with Carl Jung
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
Self-awareness is a crucial aspect of personal growth and development. Let’s explore Carl Jung’s theory of the psyche and how understanding the unconscious mind and integrating the various parts of the psyche can lead to psychological balance and individuation.
Self-awareness, or knowing oneself, is a crucial aspect of personal growth and development. It involves understanding our thoughts, feelings, behaviors, and values, and how they influence our actions and interactions with the world around us.
Carl Jung, a Swiss psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, developed a theory of the psyche that placed great importance on the concept of self-awareness. Jung believed that understanding the unconscious mind and integrating the various parts of the psyche was key to achieving psychological balance and individuation, or becoming the unique individual we were meant to be.
According to Jung, the psyche is made up of three main components: the ego, the personal unconscious, and the collective unconscious. The ego is the conscious part of the psyche that represents our sense of self and is responsible for our thoughts, perceptions, and actions. The personal unconscious is made up of all the thoughts, feelings, and experiences that we are not currently aware of, but that still influence our behavior. The collective unconscious, on the other hand, is made up of archetypes and symbols that are shared by all humans and represent universal experiences and themes.
Jung believed that to truly know oneself, we must explore and understand all three parts of the psyche. This involves acknowledging and accepting both the positive and negative aspects of our personality, as well as understanding the deeper meaning and purpose behind our actions and behaviors.
One way to do this is through the practice of self-reflection, or taking the time to think about and examine our thoughts, feelings, and behaviors. This can be done through journaling, meditation, or simply taking a few moments each day to reflect on our experiences.
Another important aspect of knowing oneself, according to Jung, is understanding and embracing our unique individuality. This involves discovering and expressing our own values, beliefs, and passions, rather than conforming to societal expectations or the expectations of others.
Jung also believed that exploring our dreams and the symbols and themes that appear in them can be a powerful tool for self-discovery. He believed that dreams contain important messages and insights from the unconscious mind and can help us better understand ourselves and our place in the world.
After 25+ years of chiropractic practice, I’ve found knowing oneself is a continuous process of self-exploration and self-discovery. By taking the time to understand and embrace all aspects of our psyche, including both the light and the shadow, we can better understand our unique individuality and live a more fulfilling and authentic life.
Use Common Sense When Shopping Classifieds
Classic CREW Chiropractic Photos from Panama Missions
I’ve been searching through old hard drives since Lina told me about plans for a 2020 CREW Chiropractic Mission to Panama.
Continue reading1998 CREW Chiropractic Panama Mission Video
In 1998 CREW (Chiropractors Restoring Energy Worldwide) traveled to Panama for a 2nd Mission Trip.
Continue readingHumanitarian Chiropractic Mission to Panama June 2020
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
There’s likely no topic I’ve covered more on Planet Chiropractic than CREW Missions to Panama. I’m very excited to be sharing the following information from Lina, Craig, and Stew.
22-28 June
JOIN US IN JUNE 2020
You’ve heard so much about Panama Mission trips over the years, so now is the time to stop observing history, and be a part of making it.
CREW (Chiropractors Restoring Energy Worldwide) in alliance with Life West, The office of the First Lady of Panama, & the Ministry of Health and Fundacion Omar Alfanno have set dates for the next Humanitarian Chiropractic Mission to Panama for June 20-28, 2020.
During the 3rd mission in 1998, 147 DCs served 385,000 patients, and the next in 1999 with 73 DCs a full 175,000. It will be the first time since then that we will cover the entire country. We are looking to bring the same energy in 2020 by having a highly motivated group of 250 chiropractors.
THE SHORT VERSION OF THE DETAILS:
- The mission is only available to registered DCs (local legalities). You will need to have graduated from an accredited Chiropractic College and must be able to show a copy of your diploma / degree OR your current practice license.
- Your completed registration along with fee must be received no later than April 15. We have created an online form with integrated Paypal. Only when the Paypal transaction is complete is your registration complete. Once processing begins (ie after April 15) there can be no refund or transfer of registration fees.
- You are responsible for arranging & paying for your flights to Panama City, to arrive latest June 20th, and depart earliest June 28th. There will also be additional hotel / meal costs which will be confirmed as soon as possible. You are responsible for arranging a travel visa if required for your nationality.
- All DCs are required to adjusted upper cervical in a normal chair. There are no other techniques or adjusting tables suitable.
Don’t be the one who wished they had been there, JOIN US!
WHAT YOU NEED TO DO NOW
- Decide that you are ready to serve and complete your registration ASAP
- If you‘re not already a member ask to join the FB group “CREW Panama”, we won‘t add you until you have completed step 1
- As soon as you’re ready, book your flights according to our information and using this form forward that to us asap.
NOTE: you should all know this already, but there is a reason we write it. Ensure that the [email protected] is added to your favourites and our emails not landing in junk. For ease of communication PLEASE once you have started an email thread, try to keep that going rather than creating a new email every time. Remember we are coordinating up to 250 people, help make our life easy.
THE LONG VERSION OF THE DETAILS:
There is a long history of wonderful things happening in Panama, and we welcome the chance to return and bring a wealth of experience to the people of Panama. Chiropractors will be sent to all 10 provinces and each group will likely have quite different experiences. There will be groups in cities, small towns, and local villages. Some will be in a hotel the entire week, others may be on stretchers in huts. DCs will be in service from Monday to Friday, and typically from 9am-3pm.
POINT ONE
The registration requirements set by Panama means that only registered DCs may participate. It’s always great having keen student participating but the government sets the rules on this one.
POINT TWO
The registration form link is here, please remember that we will be looking to coordinate up to 250 DCs, so ensure you complete the form correctly, and pay attention to ongoing notices and information. To streamline the process we’ve created an entirely online registration, since we can then collate all information without copious emails to track down. If you are a DC couple please indicate on your forms as we try to keep couples together unless you have no particular preference. We have found through experience that the best energy happens also when the tour groups are not selected based on friendship or special request, we tend to select groups on a somewhat energetic / innate basis.
If you wish to bring partners / family then we ask you to first consider the following
- our expectation is that you are there to serve, not to be on a family holiday
- You will need to cover all extra costs
- If the children are of childcare age, then you must arrange that yourself at your cost. We will not offer assistance to get this organised, we have enough to do. Otherwise generally the older the child the better
With these criteria met, having a family along can be an incredibly rewarding experience for everyone. Otherwise however, the reality is that a mission is not necessarily the best environment to have your family along, so please consider carefully before deciding to do so.
POINT THREE
Transfers to / from the airport and the hotel will be arranged for the 20th and 28th only, therefore as soon as you have booked your fares we require this information. There is a separate online form for you to use to send us this information, you’ll find it here.
If you decide to arrive prior to the Saturday 20th or stay after Sunday 28th then you will need to make all of your own arrangements regarding accommodation and airport transfers. Uber is freely available in Panama City so it might pay to ensure you have this on your cell/mobile phone for private trips. Sunday 21st and Saturday 27th will be necessary travel days for some, therefore your arrival should be 20th latest, earliest departure 28th.
POINT FOUR
One registration form per DC please. Each submission is set so that the complete registration fee must be paid, so do not combine payments on one registration submission. Your fee will cover t-shirts (likely 3), transport costs (there will be internal flights / busses etc) depending on what part of the country you are serving in. It will also cover some of the food costs at the ‚base‘ Hotel. However you will need to budget for additional costs, and these will vary depending on your location. Water and lunches will be provided during your service.
POINT FIVE
If you’ve heard about the Panama missions, but especially if not, it’s useful to recall that early on there were no clear guidelines on how to adjust, but after a short few hours a group decision was reached where everyone was to adjust upper cervical chair, and nothing else. That tradition remained solid for every mission since and will continue in 2020. It is likely the reason for the amazing healings and miracle stories that have come out of Panama. If you’ve been on a mission where every DC is doing something different, you’ve likely seen how energetically disruptive this can be. On a practical note, there simply is not the possibility to have any type of adjusting table available, especially for the number of DCs we expect to participate. So if you can adjust, with your hands (not activator), in the chair, then we welcome your registration. This is a structural adjusting mission trip. Alternatives to this are unfortunately not possible in Panama, so you should consider some of the other amazing missions trips around the world that do cater for more diverse adjusting environments.
POINT SIX
The primary avenues of communication will be email and the CREW Panama facebook page. It will be your responsibility to stay up to date with information. This applies especially to those of you who are not so inclined to use FB, Ultimately if you do not then you may miss out. It‘s important to realise how challenging it is to organise such a venture, and your cooperation is essential.
If you‘ve made it through to here, awesome! We expect to see you in Panama! If you know for certain, please complete your registration early rather than last minute, and also share this information amongst your colleague so that everyone has the opportunity to join.
The sooner we receive registrations the sooner we can confirm with the government what regions we can visit, with hotels to get better rates, and with the universe to serve more people, so please don‘t delay.
ADIO
Lina, Craig & Stew
Coronavirus Chiropractic Contingency and Exposure Plan
By Harry Engel
If you have employees or patients, it is prudent to create a set of action and contingency plans to protect the staff, your patients and your practice from the Coronavirus. Even though we’re exposed to viruses every day as patients come in and out of our offices, and yet we don’t get sick, this Coronavirus seems to be different from the flu. Hopefully it is more benign. As doctors, we have our philosophies of health. As business owners, we need to be prudent about managing risks and protecting the business. The following is an actual plan developed for a multi doctor clinic in California:
Our plan of action has 3 separate elements: A plan to protect our staff. A plan to protect our patients. A plan to protect the practice.
Inherently, we understand that there is a scientific and emotional component to managing the effects of the Coronavirus outbreak. Making sure your employees and patients FEEL safe is just as important as making sure they are safe.
We identified the following key points:
- There is a very good chance that the virus will impact our community.
- Data on this virus is not reliable. There are a number of indicators. Governments slant the data. Media uses it to increase their traffic. We are liking independent sources like Virology Down Under.
- Even though the mortality rate will most likely be substantially lower here than it is in other countries, just one fatality from our clinic would impact us in a horrid way.
- It seems like the most vulnerable are the elderly, very young and those with weak or compromised immune systems.
- The hysteria will most likely be worse than the virus, comparatively speaking, particularly when you look at deaths from other sources.
- As the virus hit pandemic levels in communities in other parts of the world, we have seen complete shutdown of industry, education and travel. People have chosen not to be in spaces where there are other people.
- If this occurred in our community we could see a substantial drop in patients venturing out in public.
- Symptoms mimic the flu: fever, cough and difficulty breathing.
- Cal-Osha (California Worker Safety Board) has decreed we need a plan
- Written Exposure Control Plan and Procedures.
- As business owners we need a plan. As Doctors we need to know how to make sure our patients are properly cared for. If the virus fails to cause us issues, we have been prudent, and perhaps helped a few people avoid the flu.
Protecting the staff:
- Identify staff that have weak immune systems.
- These employees should not show up to work.
- We need to better understand if they can collect unemployment, disability or if we need to keep them on payroll.
- Be vigilant to patients that may carry the virus. Notify management/Doctor immediately.
- Identify potential exposures, evaluating the cause, determine who was exposed, provide care as needed, improve procedures as we learn.
- Educate the staff:
- Signs and symptoms
- Protection process
- Protection equipment, proper use, handling, disposal, limitations
- Activities that may cause exposure
- Physical protection.
- Monitor staff temperatures – if they have a fever they go home.
- Masks.
- The CDC and others seem to indicate that masks do not offer significant protection
- Masks may actually increase risk.
- Masks will provide some protection against spreading the virus if the person wearing the mask has the virus
- Masks will show the public that we are doing something, so they offer emotional support.
- We will make them available to the staff who desire to wear them.
- Antimicrobial wipes.
- We’ve ordered wipes for patients to use, to minimize the spreading of the virus by touch.
- Wipes can also be used by staff to sanitize as necessary.
- Hand sanitizer stations.
- Front Desk
- Doctors area
- Therapy
- Anti-Microbial Spray
- Spray bottles in all staff areas.
- Provide the doctors with stylus so that they don’t need to touch the touch screens.
- Ultraviolet lighting
- Still in the research stage, but seems to be prudent, and cost effective.
- Installed in the AC system
- Installed in the patient bathroom with a timer/photo sensor so that they turn for a period of time on every time the light goes out, and turn off when the light is turned back on.
- Still in the research stage, but seems to be prudent, and cost effective.
- Essential oils
- We know we’ll get flack for this, but it’s been on our list for a while to have a scent for the office.
- Thieves oil has a reputation for killing viruses as do other oils.
- Prevention:
- Build the immune system.
- No Sugar! No honey, corn syrup or any other sugar. That means read the labels, because there’s tons of sugar in processed foods. And that means no alcohol.
- 1,000 units vit C daily
- 5,000 units Vit D daily. If they haven’t been taking it, start with a heavy dose for the first week to kick start.
- Get adjusted.
- Keep taking other immune supports like chlorella, probiotics.
- Educate staff on how to avoid contact and spreading of the virus.
- Wash
- Sanitize
- Elbow sneeze
- Do not touch the face
- Be cognizant of what you are touching.
- Make sure their household is prepared with adequate supplies of food, water, medicines/supplements and hygiene tools.
- Educate their children and others living in their homes.
- Build the immune system.
- What to do if you start feeling like crap.
- Notify manager
- Go home
- Stay home until the office manager agrees that you can come back.
- Take oil of oregano
- Consider Oscillococcinum homeopathic remedy
- High doses of vitamin C, follow the protocol on the handout.
- Colloidal silver
- Lauricidin
- Follow medical advice.
- Be aware that going to the ER or Urgent care might expose you to the virus, which could be a problem if your symptoms are perhaps related to the flu or other condition.
Protecting Patients:
- Educate patients that they are responsible for their own health. Teach them how to protect themselves, their families and friends. Use our Staff plan as the basis for their education.
- Dry erase boards
- Handouts
- Workshops
- Social media
- Provide antimicrobial wipes for them to use to wipe the face section of the table and any other sections of the table they desire to wipe, as well as any electronics they may touch.
- Leave the front door open if weather permits so patients don’t have to touch the handles (and improve air cirulation).
- Regularly spray sections of the office that patients come in contact with.
- Explain our plan so they understand we are taking action to protect them.
Protecting the Practice.
- The practice needs to survive the following scenarios:
- Substantial drop in patient visits
- Substantial decrease in staffing (Doctors and staff)
- Unknown length of time for the practice to recover
- As patient volume drops
- Overhead must drop congruently and immediately.
- Temporary Layoffs, doctors and staff
- Cutting expenses
- Negotiate overhead wherever possible
- This will be dynamic
- Overhead must drop congruently and immediately.
This posted document is a work in action. We’ve shared it with our staff. We have ordered supplies. We are educating our patients.
Living in Harmony with Coronavirus
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
In nearly 25 years of chiropractic practice I’ve yet to miss a day in the office due to illness. This isn’t a brag, it’s not boastfulness, and I’m not saying I won’t die. I am fully aware of the impermanence of my flesh, and I know my physical death will come.
What this is, is my truth. I don’t expect anyone to eat as I do, live as I do, or talk as I do. I mention this now as I hear more people speak (think) of Coronavirus.
I’ve long lost count of how many people have asked if I’ve had a flu vaccine, or other vaccines (as I’ve traveled extensively providing chiropractic care to people and animals in other countries). The answer has always been the same.
I’ve been asked what types of medications I would take and what nutritional supplements I consume. This answer too has always been the same.
This is not about me, I hesitate to even share the following, for concern of misunderstanding and disbelief. I ask no one to believe anything. This is how I live.
Mindfulness, Meditation, Nutrition, Chiropractic Care
My heart is at peace with all of creation. To me, that means I have no desire to battle anything (including you), at anytime. I am at peace with the seen as well as the unseen. Viruses and bacteria are not out to get me, if I become a host to their environment, it’s nothing personal.
As a chiropractor who adjusts the cervical spine mostly supine, I make close face to face contact with people each day.
For years people have coughed in my face, apologizing for the cold or flu they have, or are getting over. I’ve never said this, but it’s like them apologizing for having dirty feet, when I am here to wash them.
That’s my number one, my purpose to serve is bigger than anything else known.
I eat a mostly raw and primarily plant based diet (but haven’t always). My main philosophy is to eat minimal to no commercially made products (things with more than one ingredient). I consume little to no sugar and barely drink alcohol.
I eat with gratitude (as maximal as possible) and without emotion (as minimal as possible).
I meditate on what I consume. I give thanks to the food, I give thanks to those who harvest it, I give thanks to those who transport it, I give thanks to those who brought it to market. I do my best to visualize the families of those who have provided me with this nutrition, and I wish them and their family my deepest gratitude.
For example: I visualize a big rig truck driver sitting at dinner with their family, eating with money provided somehow connected to the purchases I make. I visualize them being healthy, prosperous and safe. I visualize the family gathered together in a state of joy. This takes only seconds to do.
So for me, it’s not only what I eat, but what I think about what I eat.
I see my chiropractor at least two times per week. I don’t expect everyone else to do this, I don’t even expect other chiropractors to do this, it’s just what I do and have done for more than 20 years.
Isn’t that supposed to be my number one? Nope. My truth tells me that if I had 100% mindfulness manifesting in matter, there’d be no interference to correct. I’m not there yet.
I do daily practices to be mindful of my thoughts. I hold no hate for anyone or anything. I watch no television. I participate in nearly zero social media. I have no gym membership.
When not in the office I shovel dirt, chop wood, and carry water. I live on large acreage and can be up at 4 am doing morning chores. It’s not uncommon that I’m in bed asleep before 8 pm.
I meditate about as many hours a day as the average person watches television.
Ultimately, it’s not the chiropractic care, it’s not the nutrition, it’s not the meditation, and not even the mindfulness. It’s rather paradoxical, and yet it is.
I wish you boundless health, and I wish you everlasting happiness.
How My Dog Taught Me Walking Meditation
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
People increasingly ask me what kind of mediation I practice. While I don’t have a formal name to describe my methods, I have combined (and modified) a number of techniques over the past several years.
Thanks to a furry angel in my life, I currently incorporate an ancient sacred paw method of contemplative walking forest mediation. Here’s a story of a meditation master and her student.
About 7 years ago I moved from the city of Los Angeles to the Southern edge of the Sequoia National Forest in Kern County, California. I had 3 aging Labrador retrievers at the time, two yellows, and the youngest one a chocolate lab named Jubilee.
Jubilee was my everywhere dog, she traveled with me on commutes to my chiropractic office near Venice Beach.
Back in the forest, she was incredibly fond of walking the numerous deer trails that crossed our land. Our routine was to get up at 5 am, have breakfast, and go for our first morning walk. Jubilee would always lead the way.
Jubilee had a method of choosing what trail to walk (and when) that was only known to her, I just followed along. Deer, coyotes, bear, lions and bobcats used the trails at night, providing her much sense stimulation during the day.
About the same time I moved to the forest’s edge, I had increased my mediation practice to 3 times per day. Initially, I found myself eager (impatience) to get these “dog walks” over with so I could get back home and sit in silent meditation.
Slowing her pace, or stopping for a long sniffing session, Jubilee had no part of it. She’d occasionally turn and give me a “we’re not done” look and then continue on deeper into the woods. My frustration always ended in loving surrender.
We did this 3 times a day, without fail. I could be chopping wood or shoveling dirt midday and she’d walk up to me with that “let’s go” look. I’d stop what I was doing and we’d head off into the woods, only to repeat the routine again before sunset.
Sometimes we were gone for an hour. I’d be in the forest, following this crazy dog to nowhere, bending my body under bushes and branches, along trails made by four legged forest dwellers. When it was time to turn back she’d change direction and head for home. I followed.
One day I decided to carry my mala beads and repeat a silent chant while we walked the forest. Up to this point I had been doing “bead meditation” every morning for about 15 minutes, usually sitting in a chair or on the edge of a couch.
As my methods progressed, I became aware that the words used during my walking morning chant were “playing” in my head (like the last song you’ve heard) regardless of what I was doing. This continued long after the walking meditation was over. Old thought patterns became chant patterns, and chant patterns became new thought patterns. I began to hear thought far more clearly (or differently) than before.
After several months of this practice, I eventually graduated into a contemplative state while in walking meditation. I was aware that Jubilee knew something that I didn’t, or that I wasn’t seeing. This led to an awakening in relationship to all the wildlife of the forest, and the forest itself. My eyes (and ears) tuned.
Late February 2019 a big storm came through on a Saturday night. Sunday morning Jubilee was eager to hit the path, even though she was near 14 years old and her daily pace had slowed significantly. On this particular morning she practically bounced about while returning from our walk, grabbing a stick along the way and trudging through our flooded muddy driveway (see above photo), on the way back to the house.
As Jubilee aged, I’d watched her struggle along the path (as she had watched me), but on this day she was celebrating life like I hadn’t witnessed before. Back in Los Angeles two days later, while another thunder and lightning storm electrified our atmosphere, Jubilee passed away.
It was several days till I was home in the forest, placing her cremated remains in a jar on the porch (next to the other dogs), and hanging an engraved “Jubilee” wind chime a patient gave to me after hearing of her passing.
As the wind blew softly the chimes began to sing, and a “let’s walk” voice resonated the air. I began walking along a trail into the woods, silently with thoughts of love and jubilation for all the angels in my life. I was about a mile in when I simultaneously became aware of deciding to turn back, and the presence of my dog looking back at me from further up the trail, signaling to keep going.
Like the snake and the rope (absolute reality and the reality we see), I could see Jubilee on the trail ahead, and I continued on. I bent under the branches of an oak tree and stood to face a mule deer buck paused mid step and staring back at me.
The eyes with which I saw this deer, were the same eyes that looked back at me, we both just stood and gazed. At some point I waved and he decided that was too much movement, he turned and hurried off.
While returning home I was aware of a pull back to known reality, while my now fading from sight dog walked by my side saying “that’s what I’ve been trying to show you.”
By the time I was home my meditative state was being challenged by conditioned ideas, the strongest being that this phenomena I had experienced was random chance and emotion, not to happen again. Seeing the dog was illusion, and the deer, just a deer.
Known reality conditioning persisted, but I also felt markedly different, I was tingling for hours. I’ve experienced meditative phenomena before, but this was new.
Evening came and educated me became convinced it was best I do walking meditation in a completely different direction, so that I wouldn’t have a similar experience, or bother the deer. Less than a quarter mile in (and still tingling) I look up from my meditative path and there’s a buck looking back at me.
I didn’t speak, I didn’t wave, I didn’t chant. He twitched his ears towards me and flared his nostrils, but otherwise remained still. Maintaining eye contact, he turned to the right and then the left, and calmly walked off the trail.
To someone watching this from a distance, or viewing it on a trail camera, this may have all appeared rather ordinary. I’ve since discovered the extraordinary is often times hidden in the most ordinary of outward occurrences.
I awoke the next day and began in a seated meditation, purposely not walking. I was aware of hesitation and excitement, and my conditioned mind was unsettled.
I could feel a challenge arising. If this was truth you’d have walked in mediation, conjured up a dog and a deer, and thought you were so cool. But you aren’t cool, this isn’t real, and you’ve been wasting a lot of time. Prove me wrong, I dare you.
This was me, talking to me, in my own head, and it was nasty. Prove me wrong played in the background for about 5 hours, until I finally headed off to walk the forest.
What up to this day had grown into peaceful contemplative walking mediation, was now me walking and trying to meditate, while someone criticized me the entire way. I walked. Where’s your deer now? I walked. Dumb ass. I walked. It ain’t gonna happen. I walked. Nothing. I returned back home. Some walking mediation that was. You even asked for a sign, how pathetic.
I stood in my driveway, the tormentous mind battle now over, and oddly feeling a deeply incredible sense of calm. Life was normal (mundane existence) again. Anyways, I had chores to do.
A mind at ease, I turned and… a buck, in the driveway, walking directly towards me. He approached and paused about 8 feet away, holding my gaze. There was no criticism, no celebration, no chatter. There was a deep tonal calm.
That moment opened a doorway on my meditation. My walking mediation has since advanced beyond what I had ever anticipated, and I’ve been able to carry the vibration over to my day activities. It’s a lifetime work in progress.
If I look (project outwards) for things, they may not be seen. If I am receptive, I see (receive via sight) wonders unfold.
We’ve been taught that animals can smell fear. My experience says all emotion (and thought) can be sensed. Anger, greed, lust, hate, disgust, trust, awe, surprise, etc.
I’m working on being a better smelling human.
New Beginnings in Asbury Park New Jersey 2020
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
While nearly the rest of the world was watching the Super Bowl, this past weekend I attended the New Beginnings intensive in Spring Lake, NJ. I was seeking the heart of chiropractic and my heart told me where I could find it.
My heart was so filled with fire that I plunged (literally) into the Atlantic Ocean (wearing only my underpants) and the fire didn’t go out. As I sit, this fire continues to burn. The fire will always burn, as this principle is alive within. ADIO.
I’m really excited about the May (and October) 2020 New Beginnings Chiropractic events in Asbury Park New Jersey.
I have committed to be there in May and October this year, and I’m looking forward to seeing you there.
May 15-17 are the dates (Friday – Sunday) for the next New Beginnings, held at the Berkeley Oceanfront Hotel in Asbury Park.
There’s going to be an excellent lineup of speakers (I LOVE the New Beginnings Speaking Format) and Dr. Gerry Clum will be receiving a Lifetime Achievement Award.
Thinking about my plunge into the Atlantic, which I did along with fellow chiropractors, I’m reminded that I’ve walked on fire with the same people.
You can get more information and get registered via the New Beginnings website. I’ll see you in New Jersey!
Being Alert to Classified Ad Scams 2020
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
The following email was forwarded to me by the Planet Chiropractic office, originating from a chiropractor via email.
URGENT: Multiple scammers!
I’ve had two scam attempts on my Chiropractic Equipment For Sale ads. Richard Walls ([email protected] and also [email protected]) and now Cynthia Fenwick are their email aliases. This is the email they end up sending. Richard sent me a check from a law firm for $4000 more than my asking price. He wanted me to deposit it and then send the extra to the ‘mover’ through Zelle/Paypal.
This scam works by getting the seller (in this case the doctor) to cash the check and then wire the money back to the mover before the check is found to be fraudulent. Wire transfers like Zelle cannot be revoked whereas the cashing of the check can.
Now Cynthia sent me the exact same email. Please alert others who’ve posted.
This is what the scammers send via email. The poor spelling has been left unchanged, this is already a good sign of a scam attempt.
Thanks for the information, i will need your honest and trust to end up this transaction. I will like to know if i can trust you with my money, … please i want you to remove the item from sales list i will get back to you with the tracking # from UPS so that you will know when to expect it.I include the mover funds along with your payment cos they need to pick some valuable item for me in your area. We are New on this site and you are the first person to know from this Site, We are a very good Christian family and GOD Fearing , all we believe in is TRUST and Loyalty .. So when you receive the check get your item fee and the rest goes to the mover guy so that it will be delivered directly to my house and LET ME KNOW IF I CAN trust you with this transaction.
Kindly get the post removed and get back to me asap.
This is by far the most popular classified ads scam I’ve seen on the internet over the past 20 years. They go after every site they can, including this site and craigslist.
When selling, basic common sense rules apply. If it seems to good to be true, it likely is. Chiropractors buying equipment would most likely purchase items using an office check from a business that can be verified. Google maps is helpful here.
When students are purchasing items, hopefully they identify themselves as such. I like to reply to students and get info on where they are attending school, when they expect to graduate, where they plan to practice, etc.
Chiropractors that don’t have an office address, such as someone starting a practice or opening a new location, offer an opportunity for getting more information before payment is received. Ask questions that are chiropractic specific and do not proceed if you feel uncomfortable about the transaction.
Emails from rich uncles and cousins that want to purchase equipment for their family chiropractors are scams, no matter how much we’d like to believe they are real.
I’m sharing this for people that may have been searching to confirm these email addresses. Scammer emails I’d watch out for include: [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected], [email protected]
Thank you to everyone that participates in keeping the classifieds community in order (not just on this site, but worldwide).
Sherman Chiropractic College Lyceum 2020
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
Happy 2020! January is a great time to plan chiropractic travels, and I like to get as many conferences and trips on my calendar as I can. My goal is to get the bulk booked before the month is done. Dr. Jillian Farrell (Director of Continuing Education at Sherman College of Chiropractic) sent me an email with a terrific event for a 2020 chiropractic calendar. Sherman Chiropractic College Lyceum 2020.
Roaring into the Future: Register Now for Sherman College Lyceum
From Dr. Farrell: The continuing education department at Sherman College of Chiropractic is “Roaring Into the Future” at Lyceum 2020 and will be hosting its annual continuing education and homecoming event on campus in beautiful Spartanburg, SC, from April 30 to May 2 (Thursday through Saturday).
We’re puttin’ on the ritz in new facilities for you to learn from leaders in chiropractic in a variety of topics spanning philosophy, art, science and principles of practice. In addition to CE in the classroom, the weekend will feature an alumni gathering, a 5K race, and the Great Gatsby Gala.
Registration is now open! Registration cost for a D.C. to attend is $459, but if you hurry, you can get our early bird special price of $359 if registered before February 29, 2020.
As a Sherman Lyceum attendee, I can tell you it’s a terrific event. The campus is awesome to visit (check out the student center) and the hotel is a perfect place to catch up with other chiropractors, talking philosophy into the night. The students are full of excitement and everyone is super friendly.
The campus address is:
Sherman College of Chiropractic
2020 Springfield Road
Spartanburg, SC 29316
The Official Lyceum Hotel address is:
Downtown Spartanburg Marriott
299 N Church St, Spartanburg, SC 29306
Phone: 864-596-1211 (Ask for Sherman Lyceum Block)
Book Early – Room block was sold out in 2019!
ONLINE HOTEL BOOKING – CLICK HERE!
Standard Room Rate of $142/Night Plus Tax & Fees
Below I have listed a sampling of topics and speakers for 2020 Lyceum.
Specific Chiropractic for the Elderly – Octavio Terrazas
The Chiropractic National Anthem – Terry R. Yochum
Chiropractic Neurology: What Have We Learned and Where are We Going? – Michael Hall
Spondylolisthesis in Contact Sports: When is it Safe? – Terry R. Yochum
Human Trafficking: An Overview – Brian McCoy
Biohacking the Brain through Chiropractic – Monique Andrews
WIC Jam Session – Focus on Families: 20/20 in 2020 – Nalyn Marcus
Innate Forces and “Apps” for Upgrading the Human OS – Donny Epstein
Truth – An Adaptive Strategy – Mitzi Schwartzbauer
What you Need to Know about Chiropractic History – Simon Senzon
Philosophy and Science Can Get Along: Keeping the TIC in a High-Volume Office – Jason Sabo
Practical Adaptability: A Coalescing of Chiropractic Philosophy and Research – Amy Haas
The Pendulum is Swinging: A Look at our History, Future and Why You Should Care – Bharon Hoag
President’s Welcome and State of the College Address – Edwin Cordero
Chiropractic: A Glorious Future? – Christopher Kent
The Responsibilities and Challenges for the Doctor of Chiropractic – Anthony Carrino
Coordination and its Clinical Application – Rick Brescia
TATS: The Art of the Specific – Grant Dennis
The Process of Discovery: Seeing What Others Have Seen Before and Thinking Something New – Stan Pierce
Chiropractic in the First Thousand Days – Linda Slak
Making a Difference in Chiropractic: The Philosophy and Practice of Caring for Animals – Jay Komarek
Review of the Thompson Technique – Thomas Kolarik
The ADD Forum: Psychotropic Disorders – Sal Martingano
Epidemiology of Subluxation – Curtis Fedorchuk
Infinite Principles – Jami Karr
Cone Beam CT: Applications and Utilization Now and in the Future – Tyler Evans and Matthew Richardson
A ‘Bad Bite’ can lead to a ‘Wicked Fall’! – Chris Chapman
Documentation and Coding for 2020 and Beyond – David Smith
Cervical Analysis and Cervical Chair Setups – Rick Brescia
Diagnosis Made Easy – Rebecca Boles
Safe travels and cheers to a spectacular 2020!
Cleveland University Kansas City Homecoming 2019
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
Happy Summer! The folks at Cleveland University in Kansas City wanted me to remind you that Homecoming 2019 is going to be in October this year. There’s an opportunity to earn up to 20 hours of continuing education credit, and meet up with fellow colleagues for food, drink and fun.
Homecoming is a 3 day event taking place October 11 – 13. There’s going to be a Friday night happy hour event from 5-7 pm and an awards event on Saturday night.
This years hotel is the Marriott Kansas City Overland Park located at 10800 Metcalf Avenue, Overland Park, Kansas 66210.
It is a tradition to honor graduates celebrating class reunions during homecoming weekend. This year graduates from the 1959, 1969, 1979, 1989, 1999, 2009 classes will be introduced and you’ll get to hear their chiropractic stories.
Presenters include Drs. Mark Pfefer, Don Sharnowski, Jeffrey Tucker, Brian Jensen, Steven Gould, Patrick Starkey, Alan Sokoloff, Stuart MCIntosh, William Moreau, Carl Cleveland III, and more.
Get all the details on the Alumni Homecoming Page on the Cleveland University site.
The 2019 Planet Chiropractic Awards
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
The nominations were made, the votes were counted, the interviews were conducted, and the winners are finally announced. I know you’ve all been hanging like a chad in suspense of who this years award winners would be. Wait no more. Here are your 2019 Planet Chiropractic Awards winners.
2019 Chiropractor of the Year – Ron Oberstein, D.C.
2019 Chiropractic Educator of the Year – Christopher Kent, D.C., J.D.
2019 Communicating Chiropractor of the Year – Tanya Reynolds, D.C.
2019 Veteran Chiropractor of the Year – Dr. Jay Holder
Making the decision to receive a chiropractic education sets one apart from the masses. It provides one the opportunity to go forth and serve those same masses, bringing them into the oneness of our being, and opening their eyes and hearts to the possibilities that become present, when one expresses life from the inside out.
These four individuals are a living expression of greatness in chiropractic, their dedication is simply amazing.
I raise my pisiform in salute!
Planet Chiropractic Chiropractor of the Year 2019
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
This is incredibly exciting. I am thrilled to announce the 2019 Planet Chiropractic Chiropractor of the Year award goes to Dr. Ron Oberstein, D.C. – President of Life Chiropractic College West.
2019 Chiropractor of the Year – Ron Oberstein, D.C.
Dr. Oberstein graduated from Life Chiropractic College (now Life University) in 1981 and has owned private practices in both Boston and San Diego with a total of 37 years of hands-on practice, with a focus on family wellness care. He also provided care for elite athletes, celebrities, and heads of state – helping them to achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Dr. Oberstein was a member of the Life Chiropractic College West Board of Regents from 1991 to 2016, including two years as the Chairman of the Board. In October 2016, he became the interim president of Life West and in August 2017 he was named the third president of Life Chiropractic College West.
Dr. Oberstein brings extensive experience and vision to the Life West community. He has rejuvenated the connection within the campus to the principles of lasting purpose; giving, doing, loving and serving from our own abundance. Dr. Oberstein’s focus on developing chiropractors who are truly prepared for success in practice puts the clinical experience at the heart of Life West’s educational experience. His leadership honors the strong philosophical legacy of Life West while creating a cultural shift to bring Life West grads to the forefront of chiropractic leadership and cultural authority. Dr. Oberstein lectures at venues worldwide on the scientific validation of chiropractic and the safety and effectiveness of the chiropractic adjustment. He strongly conveys the vitalistic chiropractic story with an deep understanding of the salutogenic health model and its incredible value for patient care.
He and his wife of 30 years, Dr. Mary Oberstein, have practiced together since 1986, serving multitudes of patients and mentoring new graduates. They travel the world spreading the chiropractic message, and they also started a non-profit organization delivering chiropractic care globally to children and adults in need with a focus in Tijuana, Mexico. He is the past Vice President of the International Chiropractors Association, currently serves on its board and is significantly involved in many facets of engagement and professional development in the chiropractic community. Dr. Ron Oberstein has three daughters, Lauren, Morgan and Sydney, who are all chiropractors.
Without even words (he speaks through action) this chiropractor has had a huge impact on my life.
When I was a student in chiropractic school during the 1990s, Ron Oberstein was one of the chiropractors that would make the drive to speak to students during our Philosophy Club or Student ICA lunch breaks. While other local chiropractors did so, Dr. Ron drove from San Diego to Los Angeles and back to dedicate one hour with us.
For me, those days were nearly 25 years ago, and I stand here today in a continued state of awe and inspiration.
It was through Dr. Ron Oberstein that I met Herbert Ross Reaver, James Sigafoose, Ian Grassam, and Fred Barge.
With my deepest gratitude, thank you for everything you have done and do.
Communicating Chiropractic with Dr Tanya Reynolds
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
I am absolutely delighted to announce the 2019 Communicating Chiropractic Award goes to Dr. Tanya Reynolds of Los Angeles, California.
Communicating Chiropractor of the Year 2019
When it comes to communicating with Millennials (Generation Y) the chiropractic profession has much to learn. So much of our communication follows patterns established throughout or chiropractic history. Symptom based marketing, brand pumping, and old school ads have crudely been transformed into clunky social media campaigns, in hopes of reaching the next generation of patients or future chiropractors.
Tanya Reynolds, D.C.
Meet somebody doing things different. Dr. Tanya Reynolds is an expression of life and love from the inside out.
I have traveled the planet throughout my years in chiropractic and Dr. Tanya (often refereed to as Dr. T by her patients) and I have crossed paths many times. Our first encounter was working side by side providing chiropractic care during the 2004 Chiropractic Panama Mission. She adjusted like the best of them and exuded a passion for serving humanity.
I’d be in Atlanta for a conference and see her there. I’d be in Florida for a conference and see her there. I’d be in Phoenix for a conference and see her there. When the notification on her winning this award hit my inbox, I smiled and thought “of course.”
Dr. Reynolds online presence shows a practice that is loving, warm and friendly (and she is very effective at delivering results). Her use of Instagram shows a simple yet effective way to share the benefits of Chiropractic in a way that works for our younger generations.
Dr. Reynolds is a 2001 graduate of LIFE University.
I sent off a few questions for Dr. Tanya and I’m sharing them here.
How would you describe your style of practice?
I would say my style of practice goes beyond the modus operandi of many other chiropractors in that it is focused on structured correction – utilizing x-rays, motion studies and post x-rays. Even more important for me, however, is connecting to the emotions and long-term goals of the patient – teaching them that mindset and positivity play a huge role in living a full life and that chiropractic is preventative, rather than simply a band-aid for when they’re in pain. To my mind, using chiropractic to chase the symptom is just taking an expensive aspirin.
Millennials seem to understand that they can take an active role in their health much better than my generation does, so I’ve made it my focus to teach them now how to take care of their bodies so that they can educate their friends and family members that on-going chiropractic care is critical to a body’s optimal performance. I hope to help them realize (make a true shift in their paradigm) that taking their future children to see a Chiropractor is just as important (if not MORE) as taking them to see a Pediatrician.
I’ve always subscribed to the adage, “give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day. Teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime.” Once someone becomes our patient, we empower him or her with the tools to take control of their health and well being. We do this by embracing a holistic approach – offering workshops on nutrition, breath work, yoga and meditative practices, etc. to educate our patients in a comprehensive way about how integrating all of these factors will allow them to be the best versions of themselves.
Do you feel the practice is any different now compared to when you started?
My inspiration and the core principles of my practice have always been the same, but over the years I have added resources to address the patient questions that come up again and again. In tandem with other health professionals whom I consider the best in their field, I have created and hosted workshops that curate the information that my patients need in order to address all their questions and concerns.
From one Los Angeles Chiropractor to another, I am ecstatic to know you are serving our city with such dedication. May your light forever flow.
Christopher Kent Awarded 2019 Chiropractic Educator of the Year
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
To the man that held my hand through the unknown world of chiropractic school, I am super excited to announce the 2019 Educator of the Year Award goes to Dr. Christopher Kent.
Chiropractic Educator of the Year 2019
Christopher Kent, D.C., J.D.
Dr. Christopher Kent is the Director of Evidence-Informed Curriculum and Practice at Sherman College in Spartanburg, South Carolina.
Christopher Kent is a chiropractor and an attorney. He is the co-founder of CLA, Inc., owner of On Purpose, LLC, and President of the Foundation for Vertebral Subluxation. His passion for facilitating human empowerment led him to the chiropractic profession, where he has served as a practitioner, educator, author, lecturer, and researcher. Dr. Kent graduated from Palmer College in Davenport, IA, in 1973.
Following graduation, Dr. Kent joined the Palmer faculty. While at Palmer, he was elected president of the faculty senate and worked as a principal investigator in the research department. After leaving Palmer, he entered full time practice, and qualified as a specialist in chiropractic diagnostic imaging. He was named a Fellow of the College of Chiropractic Imaging, and completed visiting fellowship programs in magnetic resonance imaging. Dr. Kent also served as an associate professor at Palmer-West in California. He is an active member of the State Bar of California and is admitted as an attorney of the U.S. District Court, Southern District of California.
Dr. Kent is known within the chiropractic profession for his dedication to defining the science, art, ethics and philosophy of chiropractic for students and doctors of chiropractic. He is the author of books, textbook chapters and articles in peer-reviewed and popular journals. He serves on the editorial boards of the Journal of Pediatric, Maternal & Family Health and the Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research.
No stranger to winning awards, Dr. Kent was awarded Presidential Award of Merit – 1989 – Palmer West, International Chiropractors Association (ICA) “Chiropractic Researcher of the Year” in 1991 and selected ICA “Chiropractor of the Year” in 1998. He received the Larry Webster Lifetime Achievement Award for his work in pediatric chiropractic in 2000 and Life University’s first Lifetime Achievement Award in 2007. He is former chair of the United Nations NGO Health Committee, the first chiropractor elected to that position.
Holding my hand (via cassette tapes) through chiropractic school, I listened to Dr. Kent and Dr. Patrick Gentempo on my way to and from chiropractic school nearly everyday.
Through Dr. Kent I learned that clinical excellence in chiropractic did not require selling out to a mechanistic approach. Life is better knowing Innate Intelligence has your back.
Thank you and congratulations from an On Purpose Alumni, class of 1998!
Veteran Chiropractor of the Year 2019
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
I am very happy to announce that the 2019 Planet Chiropractic Veteran Chiropractor of the Year award goes to Dr. Jay Holder.
Veteran Chiropractor of the Year 2019 – Dr. Jay Holder
Jay M. Holder, D.C., CAP, CASAP, DACACD, FICA has been practicing chiropractic in Miami, Florida since 1976.
Dr. Holder is the first American to receive the Albert Schweitzer Prize in Medicine from the Albert Schweitzer-Gesellschaft, Austria. No stranger to awards, Dr. Jay has been named Chiropractor of the Year by the Florida Chiropractic Association and Researcher of the Year by the Florida Chiropractic Society.
Dr. Holder is Adjunct Faculty at Sherman College; Adjunct Professor at St. Martin’s College, Milwaukee and Postgraduate Faculty at Life University in Marietta, Georgia.
Dr. Holder held appointment to the faculty at the University of Miami, Center for Addiction Studies & Education and Nova Southeastern University, and held appointment as Postgraduate Faculty at numerous chiropractic colleges including National College, Life College, Parker College and Life West.
Dr. Holder is a board member of the International Certification & Reciprocity Consortium; Former Executive Board Member of the Council on Chiropractic Practice, and is the Chairman of the Israel Certification Board of Addiction Professionals in Jerusalem, Israel. He is the Co-Founder/Director of the Japan Certification Board of Addiction Professionals in Kawasaki, Japan.
To date, Dr. Holder has earned 4 degrees, holds several licenses in various health care disciplines and maintains multiple board certifications. Dr. Holder has been honored by the 103rd Congress of the United States, and by many state governments, as well as by several foreign governments for his research and treatment strategies.
He is the creator of Torque Release Technique® and the Integrator™ the first chiropractic adjusting instrument to receive an FDA 510K. Chiropractic’s first positive documentary by a major television network was on Torque Release Technique. He conducted the first government funded study on Cranial Nerve Augmentation (CNA) in the U.S. establishing the Foundation Point System, Limbic System and the Addiction Axis Line in CNA, often referred to as Cranial Nerve Auriculotherapy.
At the age of 14, Dr. Holder began his experience in research in neurotoxins at the University of Miami School of Medicine. He established the Brain Reward Cascade and Reward Deficiency Syndrome relationship that supports the role of the subluxation in “State of well-being and human potential”. The 1993 U.S. Senate compared Dr. Holder’s success in research to Michael Jordan’s performance in basketball.
Dr. Holder is the author of 2 texts (Reward Deficiency Syndrome & Handbook of Abusable Drugs) and author of many published scientific papers and research studies. He also holds many patents as inventor of medical and chiropractic devices.
Thank you for your many years of dedication and service!
How I Became a Chiropractic Extreme Sports Expert
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
It all started with a bike ride.
It was 2001, and a June Friday morning in Venice Beach, California. I was out for a meditative bike ride on my black Schwinn beach cruiser. While riding and having visions of bringing chiropractic to the world I came across what appeared to be a massive set construction project on the beach. There were tents and stages, scaffolding and advertising banners, and tons upon tons of dirt.
I ventured in for a closer look and saw guys raking and shoveling the dirt into place while kids rode down 50 foot ramps on BMX bikes, testing jump conditions. They were preparing for a BMX and Skate Extreme Sports Event, the first in Los Angeles. My chiropractic sense to serve welled up inside and I internally shouted to myself… “This event needs a chiropractor.”
I looked for whoever was directing people to get things done, approached him and asked “who’s the event chiropractor?” He gave me a way too busy to be bothered look and then rattled off several reasons there was no chiropractor for the event. My internal voice went silent, and then it welled right back up.
My mind raced. In getting chiropractic to the world, I’d been travelling on humanitarian missions to Panama and Costa Rica during the past 4 years, and I had promised myself I’d bring the spirit of the mission home.
This event was happening in my backyard, I was a Venice local, how could I let this go? I persisted, highlighting the importance of chiropractic care and athletic performance and my mission to get chiropractic to the world. He was uninterested and preoccupied. He turned to me and said “look, if someone were going to volunteer and …” Without hesitation I said “I’ll see you tomorrow!” He hadn’t even finished and I was getting back on my bike to race home and get ready to rock!
Opportunity hits the pavement.
Saturday morning I was up early, meditating and doing affirmations, and preparing for the unknown of the day. It was a short walk to the beachfront event from my house and I arrived with my portable chiropractic table in hand, eager to make this day happen.
The lead organizer was high up in a tower announcing the days event over a loudspeaker while participants on skateboards got a feel for ramps and the jumps below. I stood at the fence waiting and silently directing thought at the back of the organizers head, hoping he’d soon turn around. When he finally did turn my way I must have had the biggest I’m ready to go to work smile on my face. He gave me a smile killing look, turned his head away, and carried on.
Dejection filled my being and I nearly choose it as reality when I heard a slam and collective gasp from the crowd of spectators that had been gathering. A kid about 12 on a skateboard miscalculated a jump and had face planted onto the concrete, now apparently out cold.
I looked up to see the lead organizer with his jaw dropped. He turned to look at me and I was already jumping the fence. I got down on the ground and applied skills I’d learned working with varsity football players. All was quiet (but it wasn’t). I gave him my best, and eventually we got up together to walk it off. The crowd cheered and I heard something over the loudspeaker about the doctor being on top of it as we walked towards the riders tent. (BTW: That kid went on to accomplish great things in the world of skateboarding.)
The first person to meet us was the kids dad. He said thanks, we chatted, and I turned to discover the organizer standing at my side, ready to show me where I was setting up my table for the day.
I walked out of the tent to go fetch my table and found myself face to face with a news reporter asking me questions about the hazards of extreme sports and the dangers involved for those who participate. Here I was (a sudden voice of authority) defending skateboarding, BMX, the event, and extreme sports in general.
Everything happens for a reason.
I had grown up with a skateboarding is not a crime mentality and the reporter encounter just brought my own biased emotions back. I’d had my share of broken arms, sprained wrists, fractured ribs, and ankle injuries. I had no idea how every injury I’d had as a kid would play a role in my clinical career, and on this day.
My personal BMX experience was short lived (but essential). At about age 13 I attempted a dirt jump the local kids were completing. I came up short, handle bars turned, hit the dirt and cracked my ribs as I fell onto my bike. On day one in my world of extreme sports I learned this was called casing a jump. I saw several riders that had cased jumps that day, and I innately knew exactly how to approach the injuries.
Over go for it.
When I wasn’t adjusting or assessing injuries in the tent, I was up on a platform, studying the body mechanics of the riders. I began to clearly see different postures and mechanics from skilled riders vs kids on the platform for the first time. The pros appeared and acted calm, the amateurs had a nervous tension about them (like I did the day I broke my ribs).
There was one kid in particular who had cased a jump during the practice runs, and I had him on my adjusting table later that morning. He was complaining about aches in body parts (foot, shoulder, etc.) but he didn’t have any major injuries. I was palpating his spine and could feel the nervous energy, I told him to breathe.
When he sat up he shared his concerns about the jumps and I found myself in a role that has affected my personal life and professional practice immensely. I shared that I’d been watching riders from atop of the ramp, and that I’d been seeing a pattern in their behavior. In chiropractic we have a saying “be one with the bone” and I said calmly, “be one with your bike.” Choose whoever you think is the best rider on the platform, and ride out after him, and go down that ramp faster than he did.
This kid went down the ramp just after one of best (and most famous) BMX riders on the planet completed his jump. He rode fast, cleared it, landed it, and the crowd went wild. Other riders ran out to him to give high fives and hugs, it was a great sight. He ended up winning prizes that day, and so did I.
I assessed and adjusted quite a few people that weekend, professional athletes and amateurs, skateboarders and BMX riders, and I had a blast. I had volunteered for the event and yet the rewards came, both physically and emotionally. I went home Sunday night determined to better know the evolving world of extreme sports.
What you think about.
Monday morning came and I was in the office, high off of the weekends event, adjusting patients and internally excited about this wonderful world I had entered. I was less than an hour into the workday when someone new came in with complaints about his low back and right foot after his weekend activity. What are the odds this guy tells me he was out riding motocross in Gorman (California’s second largest off-highway vehicular recreation area) and now he’s pretty banged up? Some people would say the odds are 100%.
This particular patient worked at a local motocross dealer (where I eventually got my motorcycles) and he rode a lot. We talked bike ergonomics, riding, jumping, chiropractic, and injury recovery. Within a week the manager was in my office (also a rider), and then the owner.
I now refer back to that day as Motorcycle Monday. It was as if my entire first weekend working with extreme sports athletes was simply preparation for what was coming my way. Most of the local motorcycle dealers near my office (there are several) are closed on Mondays, and many locals go out to places like Glamis, Rasor Road, and Gorman on the weekends to ride. Monday morning in my office for chiropractic care became a natural extension to their weekend activities.
American flags are flying.
The Core Tour was coming back to Venice Beach for the finals the weekend of September 14th, 2001. I’d been in communication with several riders since June and I made arrangements for them to get in office assessments and adjustments before the tour started. Word had spread and a few brought along friends. Now I had pro extreme sports athletes being assessed and adjusted in my practice.
When it was all said and done, I had worked the Core Tour over four years from 2001-2004, with a focus on BMX and skateboarding. I meet amazing people and learned much more about performance and human mechanics than I had known previously, and I was just getting started.
Possibility loves preparation.
In the summer of 2003, The X Games came to Los Angeles for the first time. Athletes participating began calling me a few weeks before to schedule coming to the office while in the city. While I didn’t officially work for the X Games, I provided care to a number of participating athletes in the office, and at the event that summer. The X Games returned to Los Angeles in 2004 and continued to be hosted in the Los Angeles area until 2013. The proximity of my chiropractic practice to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) turned out to be great for athletes visiting the area, and it wasn’t uncommon for them to visit directly from the airport.
My office walls became adorned with photos of athletes I’d worked with, and those photos remained on the walls until we remodeled the office in March of 2017.
If you’re still reading this.
Quite a few things had to happen in a universe of possibilities and probabilities in order for me to be here writing about this nearly 2 decades later (it’s been a wild ride). The event had not officially started when the kid had fallen off of his skateboard. If it were 10 minutes later, staff paramedics would have been first to the scene, and I’d have a different story to tell.
The Atlanto Calcaneal Connection
I’ll get into the clinical components (upper cervical calcaneal correlation) of what I learned and how I’ve applied it in my practice in another post. Needless to say, at the time I began providing care (chiropractic centered – subluxation based – alignment and performance care) there were no certifications and no extreme sports seminars a provider could attend (that I was aware of), although continuing education towards a solid foundation in chiropractic technique and extremity work has long been available.
For Reference
2001: Core Tour – Venice Beach, California (June 23 – 24, 2001)
2001: Core Tour Finals – Santa Monica, California (Sep 15-16, 2001)
2002: Core Tour – Venice Beach, California (June, 2002)
2003: X Games IX – Staples Center & LA Coliseum, Los Angeles (August 14–17, 2003)
2004: X Games X – Staples Center, Home Depot Center, Long Beach Marine Stadium, Los Angeles (August 5–8, 2004)
2005: X Games XI – Staples Center, Los Angeles (August 4–7, 2005)
2006: X Games 12 – Staples Center, Home Depot Center & Long Beach Marine Stadium, Los Angeles (August 3–6, 2006)
2007: X Games 13 – Staples Center, Home Depot Center & Long Beach Marine Stadium, Los Angeles (August 2–5, 2007)
2008: X Games 14 – Los Angeles (July 31 – August 3, 2008)
2009: X Games 15 – Los Angeles (July 30 – August 2, 2009)
2010: X Games 16 – Staples Center, Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum & L.A. Live, Los Angeles (July 29 – August 1, 2010)
2011: X Games 17 – Los Angeles (July 28–31, 2011)
2012: X Games 18 – Los Angeles (June 28 – July 1, 2012)
2013: X Games Los Angeles 2013
Practicing Chiropractic in Amazing Vietnam
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
I love seeing that people are willing to go out and serve new communities with chiropractic care. Everyday I see chiropractors posting classified ads related to the regions they work in, and it inspires me to know they are making positive change in this world. This post comes from another Dr. Michael who is practicing chiropractic in Vietnam.
I am Dr. Michael.
I wanted to share my experiences working in Southeast Asian countries. I’ve been working in Asia for eight years. I’ve worked in both Indonesia and Vietnam. Both countries have offered me enormous opportunities for growth personally and professionally.
Working abroad definitely has its ups and downs. Especially as I have been working where chiropractic is not fully established as a profession. But I believe that the downsides are less than the upside of experiencing the adventure and excitement of rapidly growing Asia.
I’m currently working in Vietnam which has just opened its doors to Chiropractic. This offers an excellent time for chiropractors with a sense of adventure to enter into this market where people are hungry for new approaches to health care. The impediments we experienced in the west such as insurance issues and competition are not present. People can afford treatment and see the value of this treatment.
Starting work in Vietnam was quite overwhelming due to the language barriers, but working inside the clinic, I found that it was effortless as we always had translators and a team of 60 staff who are very highly trained professionals from medicine and physiotherapy.
This experience was unique as I was used to working in a clinic of 6 staff and jumping up to 60 staff in Vietnam was quite a novelty. The clinic I am involved with in Hanoi is over four levels and has state-of-the-art equipment. This has been quite a learning experience for me even after being in practice for 25 years. I have learnt more about the use of Electrophysical Therapies and their use in clinical practice. Fortunately, I have been able to travel throughout Vietnam and experience its incredible beauty, its nature, the delicious food, the friendly people, contrasting cultures and the excitement of big cities like Hanoi.
Life is never dull when working in a foreign country and it satisfies that need for a variety in life that we crave.
It’s very common for people to walk up to you in the street and want to talk with you and the Vietnamese are very friendly, and they want to know more about our lives in our home countries.
After travelling to many Asian countries, I have found Vietnam to be quite different. They aren’t so pushy or looking to get something out of you, and you feel very safe walking around the streets.
Business in Vietnam is quite remarkable and fast-moving, and I think it will be a strong force in Asia in the years to come.
It’s challenging to describe working in Asia. It is quite different from western culture. I believe the best thing is to go and travel there first and try to pick up some work and see if it sits well with you. I must say that it does take a good six months to transition into working there due to the language barrier and a different style of thinking. It can be frustrating to try to explain something and then have something utterly different show up at the table. But that is the beautiful thing about travelling; there is such an opportunity to learn and grow.
I love the clinic that I’m involved with at ICCARE Hanoi. It is by far the biggest and best in Vietnam in my humble opinion, and so it’s an excellent place to look for future opportunities.
Feel free to contact me at my email, and I will give you a rundown on working in Vietnam.
[email protected]
Dr. Michael Bishopp
California Chiropractic Association Sponsors AB 888 Opioid Legislation
Sacramento, California – The California Chiropractic Association (CalChiro) is pleased to sponsor AB 888, which seeks to reduce the over-reliance on prescription opioids by integrating nonpharmacological treatments to pain management care plans and, most importantly, ensures that patients are making well informed decisions before an opioid is prescribed. AB 888 was introduced by Assembly member and Chair of the Business and Professions Committee Evan Low.
Over the last 15 years, there has been a dramatic increase in the acceptance and use of prescription opioids for the treatment of chronic, non-cancer pain despite serious risks and a lack of evidence about their long-term effectiveness. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has estimated that between 1999 and 2016, more than 200,000 people died in the United States from overdoses related to prescription drugs. The CDC also found that in 2016, 116 people died every day from opioid related overdoses and 11.5 million misused prescription opioids. Overdose deaths involving prescription opioids were five times higher in 2016 than in 1999.
The sheer magnitude of America’s prescription opioid abuse has evoked visceral responses and calls to action from public and private sectors. Opioid prescribing guidelines, like the CDC’s Guideline for Prescribing Opioids for Chronic Pain, already recommend the exploration of non-opioid therapeutic options or if opioids are prescribed they should be combined with non-opioid therapies. The California Health Care Foundation’s (CHCF) Changing Course: The Role of Health Plans in Curbing the Opioid Epidemic states that alternative treatments to opioids, including chiropractic care, have been found to play an important role in the delivery of cost-effective, non-drug services in both acute and chronic stages, as complementary to traditional treatments. The CHCF study notes that some health plans now authorize non-opioid treatment services for select diagnoses and that the cost of these services is offset by savings in opioid prescriptions.
Nonpharmacological treatments, such as chiropractic care is a proven safe, long-term, solution to pain that reduces or eliminates the need for opioids and reduces surgical interventions. The Department of Veteran Affairs (VA) has been implementing specific nonpharmacologic therapies recommended by several clinical guidelines. As noted in Opioid Use Among Veterans of Recent Wars Receiving Veterans Affairs Chiropractic Care, a key set of the recommended therapies–spinal manipulation, massage, acupuncture, exercise, and patient education–are the core components of multimodal chiropractic care in the VA. From 2012 to 2016, the number of veterans receiving an opioid for any reason decreased approximately 25%, and one component of the VA’s approach has been expanding access to nonpharmacological pain therapies.
“As the opioid crisis continues to wreak havoc in California families, CalChiro has moved to sponsor legislation requiring nonpharmacological avenues be considered before writing that first, often critical prescription,” states Danny Gambino DC, President of the California Chiropractic Association. “We have always aimed to alleviate pain and suffering without deadly, addictive medications. In fact, studies have shown a 55% reduction in opioid prescriptions if a doctor of chiropractic is sought out first.”
As trained medical professionals and longtime advocates of nonpharmacologic pain management, we strongly support AB 888’s mission to increase interdisciplinary approaches to the opioid crisis that will facilitate practices that will not only improve health outcomes but also decrease over-reliance on opioids. In order to adequately address the opioid crisis in California we must look at evidenced based treatment options, like non-pharmacological providers, as well as other mechanisms designed to stop opioid addiction in the first place. CalChiro believes this bill will allow multidisciplinary teams to begin working together to find pain management options that will bend the curve on opioid addiction.
William Updyke, DC, California Chiropractic Association Past President adds, “AB 888 will require any initial opioid prescription include a full informed consent to provide a much needed level of transparency. Patients deserve to be educated about the dangers of opioids prior to filling a prescription.”
Visit the CalChiro page for more information on AB 888.
About California Chiropractic Association
Established in 1928, CalChiro is a not-for-profit organization supporting thousands of doctors of chiropractic and students across California. Visit www.calchiro.org; call 916.648.2727.
You Have Been Misled By Medical Propaganda
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
Like many chiropractors that have been in practice for awhile, I have accumulated boxes of chiropractic books, pamphlets, tapes, videos, photos, and other media. While spring cleaning and sorting through some of those materials I came across a 1970s patient education pamphlet authored by Bob Sottile, D.C.
Dr. Bob Sottile practiced chiropractic in New Jersey and was deeply involved in the creation of Life Chiropractic College (today known as Life University). He was a regular speaker at Dynamic Essentials, and active politically via the Garden State Chiropractic Society and the International Chiropractors Association.
The text from the pamphlet is posted here with permission from the Sottile family (spine photo by me).
CHIROPRACTIC FIRST – MEDICINE SECOND – SURGERY LAST
And Here’s Why In A Nutshell
Bob Sottile, D.C., F.I.C.A.
The purpose of this booklet is to dispel incorrect information and medical propaganda concerning Chiropractic and its role in health care. It is hoped that this knowledge will aid all those who read this booklet in understanding what Chiropractic is, when it should be used and most importantly, why it should be used from infancy on.
Chiropractic is not a treatment for aches and pains. That’s its least important role. Its greatness and importance to the healthcare of the world is paramount, in its approach to health and well being. Chiropractic care embraces health. Medical care embraces disease care.
In the following pages it is hoped that you will be able to decide for yourself: Do I want health or do I want disease treatment? The choice is yours.
Bob Sottile, D.C., F.I.C.A.
Do You Want HEALTH or Relief?
There is a BIG DIFFERENCE!
The dictionary defines health as “Soundness of body; freedom from disease; well-being.” Relief is defined as “alleviation of pain; something that relieves pain.”
If one were to take some type of pain medication to relieve a toothache, the pain may disappear temporarily and give relief. However, at the expense of a little relief, what would happen to the tooth in the meantime? That’s right. The problem would progress and the tooth would eventually rot. Now it would have to be removed. This is a typical. easy-to-understand example of what relief is and its consequences.
Relief is a very dangerous thing. It gives US a false sense of well being or health. If relief comes in the form of temporary alleviation of symptoms. when the symptoms return. we again act to do what worked before. This is dangerous.
In the pages that follow, I will explore the philosophy of right and wrong, the law of cause and effect. and then let you decide what’s best for your body. both physically and mentally.
We have been brainwashed in the therapeutic type of treatment since birth. We have been told when we have a symptom or group of symptoms we should go to the doctor (M.D.). We tell him our symptoms. he examines us, possibly runs some tests, makes a diagnosis, and prescribes some type of treatment to render relief.
Now, let’s look at this scenario as it happens thousands of times per day the world over.
First of all, lets examine what a symptom is. Anything that you feel is abnormal is a symptom whether it be pain, swelling, constipation, diarrhea, a cough, a fever, nervousness, irritability, congestion, and so on. In order for a symptom to occur, two things must happen first. Number one is the cause. You have to understand that every effect (symptom) must have a cause. Now. that cause may be in your body for months or even years in some cases. That cause then gives rise to a condition which also may be present in your body for any length of time until the cause is finally felt. So it must be emphasized here that the symptom may very well be the third stage in the disease process, and NOW you are going to your doctor – at THIS late stage.
Now the doctor asks you some questions, such as: Where does it hurt, how long has it hurt, what did you do to cause the problem, does it hurt more in the a.m. or p.m., does it hurt constantly or on and off and a few other worthless questions. Worthless because you already had answered these questions in the case history form with one hundred and twenty-nine other questions which took you thirty-five minutes to complete. The doctor just wants you to feel like he’s really interested in your problem. Following this comes the standard routine of taking the blood pressure, weighing you, listening to your heart and lungs and looking into your eyes and ears. I Could never understand why doctors follow this routine even if the complaint is pain in the big toe. I guess they have to justify their fees in some way. Oh, yes, add to this the routine blood test which just about everyone gets plus any other test he or she may order. You know, the EKG to see if the heart could be causing the big toe pain. That’s a quick ninety bucks right there.
After all this nonsense, the time has come for the diagnosis; the 85% incorrect guess of what you have. “Di” means two and “agnosis” from the word agnostic, or don’t believe. So … diagnosis = two don’t know – you and the doctor. Eighty-five percent of all diagnosis is incorrect.
Now comes the treatment, which is also a guess. You know … “Take this and see me in two weeks. If you’re not better, we’ll try something else.” Really scientific, isn’t it? The next question by the patient is. “What caused this problem, doctor?” This brilliant scientific genius answer, “Well, your tests are negative. I just think it’s your age.” And you, the patient ask, “My other toes are the same age, why don’t they hurt?” His face becomes a blank stare as he doesn’t know what to say, so he avoids the answer and states that the prescription he’s ordered for you should give you some relief.
If you’ve ever listened carefully to these miracle workers’ answers, you really begin to get the gist that modem scientific medicine doesn’t deal with causes, just effects. “It’s your age, it’s your weight, it’s stress, it’s the weather, it’s the pollen, and so on… Medicine always tries to change the environment to aid man’s sick body instead of making the man’s body stronger with better resistance and better immunity so that it can deal with and adapt to environmental changes.
You always hear, “This will give you temporary relief,” or “We’ve got it under control,” or ‘This should help you.” Relief is not health. Being under control is not health. These statements merely indicate that the cause of the problem has not been eliminated, therefore restoring the body to health has not been achieved.
Just as taking a prescription for the toothache covers up the real problem and causes the tooth to further decay, taking any drug or medication to cover up a condition or disease process can give relief while the organs continue to decay.
This is the reason why the latest statistics show that one of every three Americans have chronic disease.
There is absolutely no rhyme or reason in covering up warning signs. If your smoke detector went off, would you heed its warning or disconnect it so it wouldn’t bother you anymore? Symptoms are warning signs that something is not working correctly in the body. It’s the cause that must be eliminated. As a result, the symptom will then leave. Stop putting sponges under leaky roofs. Fix the roof.
Let’s examine this further with some specific examples that occur every day. A child has a runny nose, teary and red eyes and episodes of sneezing. Mom calls the family M.D. She brings the child in for an examination. It’s determined that he has an allergy. But, they must now go to an allergist. You see, he specializes in allergies. Every part of your body needs a specialist who goes to school for twenty-five years and specializes in two square inches of your body. You know – the audiologist for the heart, the respiratory expert for the lungs, the proctologist for the rectum, and so on. It seems as if the definition of a specialist should be “a doctor who knows more and more about less and less.”
Back to the allergist. He examines the child, runs a battery of tests and determines that the child is allergic to pollen, house dust, cats, dogs, and grass. He now suggests that the child should be given shots to relieve his allergy symptoms. Nothing is done to eliminate the cause of the allergies. Why is it that this child has three brothers, two sisters, a mother and a father, all living in the same house, and they ALL breathe the same air, and are exposed to the same pollen, dust, cat, dog, and grass as the child, yet they do not suffer from the same allergies? Is it these things in the environment, or is the real cause the child’s low resistance and immunity? Isn’t his body too weak to cope with these irritants? And, furthermore, what is the cause of these weaknesses? It’s a nervous system that is being interfered with causing this lowered resistance. How does this occur? From subluxations in the spine which interfere with the transmission of normal nerve impulses responsible for chemical, enzymal and hormonal cellular metabolism. What are these subluxations. you ask? Good question. Subluxations are spinal vertebrae that have come out of normal alignment, thus putting pressure on the nerves they house, decreasing their effectiveness. It has been proven at the university of Colorado by Chung Ha Sub, Ph.D. that the weight of a quarter on a nerve can decrease the impulses of that nerve up to 60%. So you can imagine the effects of a vertebrae impinging on the nerve.
Let’s face it, if pollen caused allergies, we would ALL have allergies since we all breathe pollen. If hay caused hay fever, all farmers would have hay fever. If cats and dogs caused allergies, all the veterinarians treating such pets would have allergies. And if grass caused allergies, all lawn maintenance people would be in trouble. Absurd, isn’t it? Again, medicine putting the blame on the environment instead of man’s weakened state. Now let’s take a look at some other medical symptomatic relief attempts that do not make sense. And, oh, by the way, now medicine is finally beginning to see their mistakes, even if only to a slight degree.
You have a cough. It’s bothersome. The doctor prescribes cough medicine or you go to the drug store and buy some over-the-counter cough syrup. What is a cough anyway? You might answer it’s a symptom. Well you’re correct. However, what you don’t realize is there are some good symptoms. A cough is produced as your body’s innate attempt to cleanse the lungs of various toxins due to an irritant So why are you attempting to stop the body from doing its job? Because you have been brainwashed that this was the correct thing to do. Well, it wasn’t. Now you know better, don’t you?
It’s the same thing with a cold You are not sick when you get a cold. It’s merely the body’s way of detoxifying itself. After all, where would all the mucus go if it didn’t have a way out? Fortunately, the nose runs, sneezing occurs and the body is doing its job. But now you’re going to stop this process? You take cold medication to “dry up” the cold. Again, leaving the body with toxins that would have been excreted, and oh yes, “dried up.”
One more example comes to mind and this is really bothersome to me. Let’s say you child has a temperature. Oh, let’s say it’s 103°. What is a “temperature?” It’s one of our body’s most dynamic defenses. The body responds to an invasion of foreign bodies and irritants by creating additional heat to bum out the infection. I think that is wonderful. But what have you been taught to do? Tylenol, aspirin, ice, cold baths, alcohol robs, and medication to get the temperature down – against the body’s wishes. So now you’ve forced the temperature down and the thermometer reads 98.6. Wow! That’s over with. What have you done to eliminate the cause of why your temperature was raised by the body?
Let’s pursue this a little further. Let’s talk about bacterial infections and the application of medicine’s germ theory. And by the way, it’s not the germ LAW, it’s THEORY. That is because in order for it to be the germ LAW, it would have to work on every individual. But it didn’t. Concentrated doses of bacteria were injected into individuals. Some became ill, but others noticed no effects. So, therefore, it was theorized that some individuals were not susceptible because their resistance was higher. How to become one of those with higher resistance will be addressed in later pages. Let’s go back to infectious diseases. The question I ask you is: “Do germs cause disease?” My answer to you is, “No, germs do not cause disease!” If germs caused disease we’d all be infected within a couple hours after we were born. The air is full of bacteria. Our bodies’ fluids are laden with bacteria. Just take a sample of your saliva and look at it under a microscope. You would be amazed at the number of “little critters running around. And, if you’re not aware of it, there are good bacteria and not-so-good bacteria. Now your doctor gives you an antibiotic. How does that antibiotic know which are the good guys and which are the bad guys? It doesn’t. So, harm is done. Besides, medicine is now admitting that antibiotics don’t work anymore. They say it’s because the germs are bigger and badder than before. They won’t admit to the truth. Antibiotics have been used, or should” I Say overused, to such degrees that our bodies have become intolerant. Again I say, what caused the infection?
Let’s examine this germ theory which, by the way, medicine has backwards. This is the simplest and most logical way I can explain it, so that all who read this booklet can clearly and easily see what we’re attempting to share with you.
There are two garbage pails. One is clean and one is dirty and full of garbage. My question to you is this: “Where do the flies go?” To the dirty garbage pail, you would answer. Yes, you’re correct. Now my second question is, “Did the flies cause the garbage, or did the garbage cause the flies?” You’re right again. Of course, the garbage caused the flies. So let me ask you, did the bacteria cause the infection, or did the infection cause the bacteria? Now you pause, don’t you. Because you’ve always been told the bacteria caused the infection. Well, you’ve been taught wrong again. Bacteria are scavengers. They migrate to inflamed, damaged, dead. and infected tissue to feed. This is the environment they grow and multiply in. So when the medical geniuses microscopically examined cultures and found them laden with bacteria, they incorrectly summarized that the bacteria caused the infection. So they give antibiotics to wipe out the bacteria. But one thing remains. The poor environment we talked about. You know – the dirty garbage pail. So what happens? Several months later the same infection returns. And the same procedure is again followed. And, of course, the same results occur. That’s why you hear so many times about individuals having reoccurring problems. The poor child with ear infections, the mother with reoccurring bladder infections, the young man with sinus infections that keep coming back. Again – treatment of symptoms, not alleviation of the cause. It” s like taking some spray to the dirty garbage pail. The flies leave for awhile and then return because the garbage pail is still dirty.
I hope I have succeeded in explaining to you in a simple manner, how you have been misled.
I was watching a college wrestling match. One wrestler almost had his opponent pinned. All of a sudden, he began to hyperventilate and rolled over on his back, gasping for air and coughing. His coach jumped onto the mat and administered a spray into this young man’s mouth. In a short time, the boy was able to get up. He began breathing normally after several deep breaths. He sat on the bench shaking his head in disgust. I, as a spectator, also shook my head in disgust. This young man has battled asthma since he was seven years old. He was now twenty, suffering with asthma for thirteen years. Of course, the treatment to reduce these attacks is medication again, to control the condition or to give symptomatic relief. I walked over to his parents. You could see how upset they were. I introduced myself to them and asked if they would take some advice or rather, would listen to some. They were all ears. They, too, have suffered enough with their son’s condition. I started off by telling them that last year, 56.2 billion was spent in this country on asthma alone. I then went on to explain that the medication offered, at best. only symptomatic relief. They agreed, as they have seen these attacks repeatedly over the past thirteen years. I then proceeded to explain to them that asthma was a spasmodic condition of the lungs which was caused by a lack of nerve supply which controlled the muscular walls and bronchial tubes. I then went on to explain that this diminished nerve supply was due to vertebral subluxations. As I continued my story I could see the look in their eyes change. They were nodding their heads in an up and down fashion. I asked them about their son’s past history. All his problems had been with his lungs. He had many episodes of bronchitis and coughed a lot, especially at night. One other thing. As an infant, he fell off the dressing table. They told me they wanted me to check his spine. We made an appointment for the next day. Examination of his spine revealed severe spinal subluxations. X-rays confirmed these problems. A program of regular care was started. In four months, this young man was off all medication. We had corrected the cause of his problem; his lungs now had a healthy nerve supply. They were again healthy like they should have been. His last year in college was great for him. No asthmatic attacks, no more medication and all the way to the semi-finals and the state tournament. More importantly, if the nerve supply in the lungs had been allowed to progressively worsen, other more serious problems such as lung cancer might have occurred. The parents also came, as did their daughter. They’ve all enjoyed natural health.
As I promised earlier, I would now like to talk about causes.
Do you know what directs the formation of a child in the womb of a woman in two hundred and seventy days? It’s the brain and the nervous system which orchestrates this miraculous event. In each stage of the development of the fetus. the brain and nervous system are in charge. And by the way, what are the first two things formed in the fetus? That’s right. The brain and the spinal cord, because from there all life and control comes. Then the spine is formed to house and protect them. All of the organs are then formed in nine months and a miracle is born.
Now let me ask you this. I think the body is pretty intelligent to do this, don’t you? Don’t you think if this body of ours can create a child that it is intelligent enough to heal and restore health? Don’t you also believe it’s intelligent enough to cure a cold or an infection or any other disease? or course it is. Think about this. If you break your right arm, does the body send the extra calcium to heal the left arm? No. It knows a fracture has occurred and in order to heal, calcium is sent right to the site of the fracture. We take these things for granted. We seem to expect our bodies to do the things that are necessary for health. It makes our heart beat, makes our lungs expand and contract, detoxifies, produces insulin at the levels needed, produces hormones and enzymes and converts the food we eat into healthy living tissue and then eliminates the waste not utilized. Pretty amazing, you’ll have to agree. When we cut ourselves, we heal from the inside out. And when we get sick, in order to become healthy we must get well from the inside out. Chiropractic has always maintained this, whereas medicine has always felt that with their symptomatic relief treatments that you must heal from the outside in. They are wrong – very wrong.
How does our body work? How does it get sick or diseased and how does it become healthy again? We know that the brain and the nerves control all functions. Every organ, tissue and cell is controlled by the nervous system. There is not one function of this body that is not controlled by the nervous system. The brain sends its impulses or “life” down the spinal cord, out the nerves into every organ, tissue and cell. This “life force” or “life energy” must be 100% to its destination. If it is, then where it controls will function at 100% efficiency. Less than 100% efficiency is disease. How can it become less than 100% you ask? Due to subluxation. As we stated earlier in this text, the weight of a quarter on a nerve can cause up to a 60% decrease in the function of a nerve. A vertebrae impinging on a nerve will cause this and even more than 60% life shut off.
Suppose every nerve in your body was functioning at 100% efficiency into every organ, tissue and cell. What would you think your health would be like? You’re right – you would have optimal health. This has occurred because you’ve become subluxation free, you would have a clean garbage pail. The flies (germs) wouldn’t be able to do damage. Symptoms would be gone, not because they were covered up but because they were eliminated, life was restored and the body was able to heal from the inside out as it was intended. You now also have God-given natural immunity – the only true immunity and not artificial so-called immunity from vaccinations. And best of all, the only side effect of natural immunity is health.
Now maybe you can understand why children should be adjusted from birth on. Subluxations occur during the birth process. The head of the fetus is used as a battering ram against the wall of the uterus. Then the twisting of the baby’s head upon delivery all contribute to subluxations at birth. In fact, there is recent medical research showing that sudden infant death syndrome has been attributed to subluxations of the atlas and axis vertebrae, the top two vertebrae in the neck. Make sure that you and your children stay as subluxation-free as possible for as long as you wish optimal health.
Spinal subluxations do not only occur during birth. Babies begin to crawl. They bang their heads on the coffee table. Then they begin to walk and fall a thousand times. They fall off their skates, their bicycles, and so on. All of these shocks are absorbed into the spine, causing subluxations.
Other factors causing subluxations are poor posture, poor work habits, stress, toxins, lack of rest, lack of proper nutrition, among others. That is why it is so important to be checked regularly for subluxations.
The only specialist knowledgeable in locating and removing subluxations is a doctor of chiropractic. Other physicians may use manipulation, but manipulation is not an adjustment. An adjustment is a specific movement to decrease pressure on the nerve being impinged. Great study and training is necessary for such an important. precise procedure.
I hope you now have a better. more well-informed concept of what we in Chiropractic set out to achieve. We wish for all patients to be subluxation free. It is our hope that more people of all ages will experience better health without the use of dangerous drugs, and many times unnecessary surgery.
We do not heal nor do we cure. No doctor does. However, we take no credit for your well being. We give all of that credit to the intelligence of your body and the innate wisdom it possesses. That is why we always say: “Chiropractic First, medicine second, and surgery last.” It’s as simple as that.
“We must recognize that many ailments or diseases are enormously accelerated in their improvement by spinal care; indeed, many a cure thereby becomes for the first time possible… without a conservative vertebral therapy as a basis of treatment, general medicine cannot go on. We do not have to call our activity Chiropractic, but we do have to go to the Chiropractors for instruction.” – K.R. von Reques, M.D.
Do This Ten Minute Simple Exercise Daily
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
I am extremely grateful to mentors that have helped guide me along my path. This 10 minute simple exercise in mindfulness comes from the entity known as SETH aka Jane Roberts. I am posting it here for those that are seeking it.
Pretend that you are on a lighted stage, the stage being the room in which you now sit. Close your eyes and pretend that the lights have gone out, the setting has disappeared and you are alone.
Everything is dark. Be quite. Imagine as vividly as you can the existence of inner senses. For now pretend that they correspond to your physical ones.
Clear from your mind all thoughts and worries. Be receptive. Very gently listen, not to physical sounds but to sounds that come through the inner senses. Images may begin to appear. Accept them as sights quite valid as those you see physically.
Pretend that there is an inner world and that it will be revealed to you as you learn to perceive it with these inner senses.
Pretend that you have been blind to this world all your life and are now slowly gaining sight within it.
Do not judge the whole inner world by the disjointed images that you may at first perceive or by the sounds that you may at first hear, for you will still be using your inner senses quite imperfectly. Do this simple exercise for a few moments before sleep or in the resting state.
It may also be done even in the midst of an ordinary task that does not take all of your attention. You will simply be learning to focus in a new dimension of awareness, taking quick snapshots, as it were, in a strange environment.
Remember that you will only be perceiving snatches. Simply accept them, but do not attempt to make any overall judgments or interpretations at this stage. Ten minutes a day to begin with is quite sufficient.
Michael’s Notes: I have found that this and similar practices can well be incorporated into daily tasks (as suggested), I will leave it to you to decide when is best to add this simple practice to your day.
Chiropractic Associate Opportunities Spring 2019
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
One of the top reasons chiropractors visit the Planet Chiropractic Classifieds is the search for employment opportunity. Chiropractors are posting positions available for associates, and recent grads (and those seeking alternatives to current practice) are seeking to fill those positions.
Back in October, Harry Engel highlighted several amazing associate opportunities in a post that featured ads posted at that time. While those positions have likely been filled, I selected a few recently posted associate ads to share this month. While there’s plenty of US positions to fill, I chose a few locations from across the planet.
Tasmania, Australia
Tasmania, an isolated island state off Australia’s south coast, is known for its vast, rugged wilderness areas, largely protected within parks and reserves.
The ad is from Outback Chiropractic, and they are looking for good quality adjusting chiropractors to join their team in Australia. The clinic has multiple adjusting rooms, digital X Ray and well trained CA’s. They practice mostly manual adjusting techniques, Gonstead and Diversified.
Kolkata, India
Kolkata (formerly Calcutta) is the capital of India’s West Bengal state. Founded as an East India Company trading post, it was India’s capital under the British Raj from 1773–1911. Today it’s known for its grand colonial architecture, art galleries and cultural festivals. It’s also home to Mother House, headquarters of the Missionaries of Charity, founded by Mother Teresa, whose tomb is on site.
Dr. Kevin Mernissi (of 3C Chiropractic) is seeking 2 motivated chiropractors to start the first chiropractic clinic in Kolkata. You will have the chance to work in a friendly environment in the fastest growing country in the world. This is a great opportunity for talented DC to enjoy the beauty of India while earning money. Great career opportunity. Newly graduated Doctor are welcome to apply.
Lima, Peru
Lima, the capital of Peru, lies on the country’s arid Pacific coast. Though its colonial center is preserved, it’s a bustling metropolis and one of South America’s largest cities.
Dr. Adam Heying is advertising a once in a lifetime chiropractic opportunity to live along the Pacific coast for FREE, eat daily in one of the culinary capitals of the world (also for FREE), learn and grow alongside up and coming chiropractic superstars in your OWN office, along with making great money and being able to save most of what you earn in the gorgeous South American city of Lima, Peru. The office at Centro Quiropractico McLellan is seeking two full-time long-term associates, that preferably speak Spanish.
I noticed recent associate wanted ads for the Philippines and Vietnam as well. You can browse all the current employment related ads here and hit up the main classifieds on this page.
Have an awesome day!
My Dog Died Chiropractic Visit
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
It happened again this week. Phone call made to office so a family can come get adjusted. It’s not their regularly scheduled day. The reason for the visit wasn’t due to low back pain, a car accident, neck pain, or a contagious event of sciatica. It was something else.
They enter the adjusting room, like they have many times before. The oldest daughter begins the conversation with a socially accepted (something I’ll cover here later) reason for the visit. Mom follows up and mentions they put the family dog down earlier in the day. The room fills with tears.
They don’t teach this in chiropractic school.
Although I didn’t consciously know it when I agreed to travel this path, this IS why I am a chiropractor.
I’ve lost count of how many times this scenario has taken place in the office. Dogs, cats, parents, children, spouses, and other loved ones.
It’s not always mentioned when someone gets on the table, but if I listen (listen with my heart and hands) while palpating, the information comes out. I have words to describe what happens to me energetically when their words are spoken, perhaps I’ll share another day.
What I do know is that I’ve been permitted to enter a realm of sacred trust, and I have a greater responsibility to serving that, than anything I can comprehend in this manifest world.
Creating a safe place, a sanctuary, a place of love and healing, has long been an intention for my practice. Yet it was only a few years ago that the realization set in. The office isn’t located anywhere special, it’s simply a collectively perceived physical location where people gather to re-tune and re-balance.
The creation of a safe space, a sanctuary of balanced tone and healing, manifests from within. As healers, we commit ourselves to being well tuned, energetically balanced vessels.
Thank you for being in my field of vibration.
Today Will Be Awesome
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
Today will be awesome. That’s the reminder at the front desk (usually facing towards me) in our chiropractic office. I certainly prefer this line of thinking to the alternative. This isn’t particularly about being positive, although being positive goes along with it. Decades into this mindset, I now see everything as levels of awesomeness. There’s nothing less than an awesome day, and yet there’s nothing greater than an awesome day.
As I write this, I hear music playing… “I have a feeling that tonights going to be a good night.” Why wouldn’t it be? Especially when it was an awesome day.
I search through old planet chiropractic content and I find years of awesome articles, and I’m reminded that this has become my manifest world.
Looking back, I am reminded that I’ve been surrounded by awesome people that have taught me awesome things. I’ve even sent myself letters addressed to the world’s most awesome chiropractor, thanks to habits and behaviours I’ve learned from others. From that I was reminded of Dr. Ian Grassam and his question of your price of greatness.
I then came across this making a difference post from a chiropractic assistant in Canada…
Each day we are given a choice as to how our day will turn out, now I know there will always be circumstances beyond our control. There will always be something or someone out there just dying to get under our skin. It’s your reaction to those situations that will determine your day’s outcome.
Have an awesome day!
Chiropractic Rocks Reno Nevada 2019
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
I am so excited with the chiropractic events I’m seeing on the calendar for 2019 in the US. So many awesome opportunities for chiropractors (and staff) to gather with our family and get filled with spizzerinctum and vitalistic energy.
There’s a rocking chiropractic seminar taking place in March that I wanted everyone to know about. It’s going to be held at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino in Reno, Nevada (spectacular location for a chiropractic conference) on March 28-30 2019.
Photo (by Michael Dorausch, D.C.): Dr. Fred Schofield speaks to a fired up crowd.
Chiropractic Rocks Reno – March 28-30 2019
Grand Sierra Resort and Casino
2500 E 2nd St, Reno, NV 89595
This is a 3 day (Thursday – Friday – Saturday) chiropractic conference.
For those seeking continuing education hours, this event features 14 hours possible CE in 44 states and Canada. CEs have been applied for or are already approved. As always, I recommend DCs check with their state to see what applies and what does not.
The Chiropractic Rocks! events are the brainchild of southern California chiropractor, Dr. Adam J. Del Torto. I absolutely love what Dr. Del Torto is doing, and I know personally how putting on chiropractic events of this size is no easy task. I’m thankful that chiropractors like him are carrying the torch.
Photo (by Michael Dorausch, D.C.) Dr. Leslie Hewitt (former CCA President) speaking at a chiropractic conference.
I’ve attended several great chiropractic events at the Grand Sierra Resort and Casino in Reno. It’s an easy airport to fly to from LAX, and it makes for a great chiropractic road trip if you choose to drive. I remember one year a group of chiropractors in Orange County chartered a bus for a CCA chiropractic event at the same hotel. Talk about dedication.
This conference features a stellar lineup of speakers, including some of my favorites. I may not have included everyone but here is a list of who you can expect to see in Reno.
Jonathan Verderame, Amanda Apfelblat, Susan Blaskay, Anthony Carrino, Barbara Eaton, Neil Cohen, Travis Corcoran, Hailey Jules, Tristan Schaub, Ryan Reider, Jon Petric, James Chester, Peter Morgan, Liam Schubel, Miles Bodzin, Leslie Hewitt, Ron Oberstein, Gus Domenico, George Curry, Del Bigtree, Tim Gay, Dennis Perman, Cliff Tao, Bharon Hoag, Adam Del Toro, Eric Mckillican, Shawn Dill, Ed Osburn, Fred Schofield, Mark Feldman
There will be opening ceremonies on Thursday and breaks provided between the blocks of speaker sessions.
There’s an exhibitor party (Thursday) and an exhibitor bar hour (Friday Night).
There are closing ceremonies and a chiropractic party on Saturday night.
When not in the hotel, get outside for some fresh air and maybe run (or walk) alongside the Truckee River, which is right outside the hotel.
While I added the Reno Chiropractic Rocks event on the events pages, you can go directly to the Chiropractic Rocks site for all the information you require to get registered.
Mark your calendars and get ready to rock!
New Student Center Opens on Sherman College Campus
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
Sherman College of Chiropractic celebrated its commitment to Spartanburg and to principled chiropractic education during the opening of the Thom and Betty Gelardi Student Center February 8 on the college’s 80-acre campus in Spartanburg, SC. About 600 guests attended, with many college alumni and supporters watching via livestream on the college’s Facebook page.
Photo: Dr. Thom Gelardi, Sherman College founder, and Dr. Edwin Cordero, Sherman College president stand in front of the newly completed Gelardi Student Center at Sherman College of Chiropractic.
The Gelardi Student Center underscores Sherman College’s focus on student success and includes a library, bookstore, campus café, large meeting spaces, student study suites, lounge areas and more. The facility will serve as the new campus gateway and arrival point for Sherman College and is the newest physical addition to the Sherman College campus since 2000.
The Gelardi Student Center is named in honor of Dr. Thom Gelardi, who founded Sherman College in 1973, and his wife, Dr. Betty Gelardi, a member of the college’s first graduating class. Dr. Thom Gelardi spoke during the ceremony of the commitment of students throughout the college’s history. “The success of Sherman College’s many events and undertakings was – and still is – due to students volunteering many hours of service and time to the college and its mission,” he shared. “It is indeed a great honor, then, to have our names on this building – a building with a goal of serving the students of Sherman College, the future of the chiropractic profession.”
Aside from its clear purpose of serving Sherman College students, the Gelardi Student Center is also designed to serve the local community. “This facility strengthens Sherman College’s commitment to serving humanity and reinforces our commitment to Spartanburg,” explained Sherman College President Edwin Cordero, D.C. “Serving others is a key component of our mission, and we are committed to becoming an even stronger positive force in our community.”
The Gelardi Student Center is just one aspect of the college’s campus master plan, which represents a $21 million investment for Spartanburg. Aside from this significant economic impact, the center’s event space will be available for community use. The college will begin taking reservations beginning this fall for events to be held in 2020 and beyond. The meeting facility can be broken down into three separate meeting spaces or used as one large event space with a total capacity of 650 if set up with auditorium-style seating.
During the ceremony, Dr. Cordero shared Sherman College’s commitment to serving Spartanburg by providing quality, affordable chiropractic care to upstate residents and free services to those who are underserved or in financial need. In addition, Sherman College students and employees support many local organizations and nonprofits through volunteerism and board leadership. The college makes a significant economic impact on the Spartanburg community by employing about 100 area residents and attracting more than 400 students from 41 states and 20 countries.
Sherman College broke ground the 22,000-square foot facility in November 2017, sparking transformational change on campus and beginning the next phase of its campus master plan and ongoing capital campaign. In addition to the construction of the Gelardi Student Center, Sherman College’s ambitious campus master plan has included a complete renovation of Scallon Hall, the college’s main classroom building, and a renovation of the Olsen Building, which houses executive offices. A labyrinth was also added to campus.
Ongoing and future plans include updates to the Chiropractic Health Center, which serves 35,000 patient visits each year to residents of the Upstate, and further enhancing the campus plaza and campus drive to welcome visitors, open up green spaces, and showcase the college’s 80-acre campus.
Sherman College has doubled its enrollment since 2013 under Dr. Cordero’s leadership, and anticipates continued growth over the next decade. As one of just 18 chiropractic colleges in the nation and the only one in the Carolinas, Sherman College’s doctor of chiropractic program is unique in its approach to health care and known globally for producing doctors who are highly skilled in their delivery of care.
Dr. Cordero said the college’s expansion plan is designed to meet the demand for skilled, passionate and successful doctors of chiropractic as the profession continues to grow, with increasing numbers of consumers seeking less invasive and more proactive approaches for healthcare.
Sherman College announced its strategic plans for the college in 2017, including the engagement of planning and program management firm Brailsford & Dunlavey to guide the institution’s master planning process. Partners on the Gelardi Student Center included construction firm Harper Corporation and architects at Lord Aeck Sargent.
Post and Media Provided By Sherman Chiropractic Media Relations
Life West Response to ACA Choosing Wisely X-Ray Guidelines
From: Life West Communications
Life Chiropractic College West Responds to the ACA’s ‘Choosing Wisely’ X-Ray Guidelines
In direct opposition to the Choosing Wisely initiative that has been delivered by the American Chiropractic Association, Life Chiropractic College West believes firmly in the use of spinal imaging for patient safety and the detection of Vertebral Subluxation, at the doctor of chiropractic’s discretion.
The ACA states in its Choosing Wisely statement that physicians and patients should question routine use of spinal imaging for patients with acute back pain of less than six weeks, especially in the absence of certain red flags. It is Life West’s position that in addition to performing a patient history and diagnostic workup, it is both the duty and responsibility of the chiropractor to perform any further diagnostic tests, including X-ray if indicated.
Patients may have underlying conditions that are not readily explained by their consultative history and/or examination procedures. Adding X-ray results or other spinal imaging findings to the data available, when appropriate, may give a clearer picture of the patient’s internal health status and provide different potential avenues of care. The judgment of the chiropractor, when determining the appropriate approach to chiropractic care, is better informed by multiple points of data.
The ACA Choosing Wisely guidelines also fail to take into consideration the many practices and approaches of chiropractic, which employ manual as well as non-force techniques. Any guideline for chiropractic care must consider the diversity of techniques used, as well as the protocols and specificity involved in the care being delivered.
The decision to X-ray a patient must be based upon the case history, examination findings, best available evidence, professional judgment of the chiropractor and the unique features of the individual patient. This decision should be determined by the doctor of chiropractic, who takes responsibility for the safety of the patient and the appropriateness of care given. This should never be determined by a guideline that fails to consider, among other issues, the differences in individual patients and the differences in chiropractic techniques.
Ron Oberstein, DC
President
Scott Donaldson, DC
Vice President, Clinical Operations
Brian Gatterman, DC, DACBR
Health Center Faculty, Radiology
Jamie Motley, DC, DACBR
Health Center Faculty, Radiology
Savannah Shortz, DC, MS, DACBR
Health Center Faculty, Radiology
Life Chiropractic College West
Tel. 510.780.4501 Toll Free. 800.788.4476
25001 Industrial Blvd. Hayward, California 94545 United States
Room 1 Chiropractic Seminar Las Vegas
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
I’m excited to share news about an upcoming chiropractic seminar that features some of my favorite speakers. The event is taking place in Las Vegas (a great location for conferences) on April 19th and 20th, 2019.
I don’t receive as many postcards as I used to for chiropractic seminars but I’m glad I received this one. It’s not the 14 hours of continuing education credit that got me excited (although CE credits at an event like this is awesome). It’s not that the event is in Las Vegas, one of my favorite places for attending conferences, yet that excites me too. It’s not even the speakers, although seeing some of my favorite chiropractic people sharing decades of wisdom at a weekend event is something I love. So what is it?
Vibrational Tone
I’ve known several of these individuals for 2 – 3 decades, and they live and breath chiropractic. You could attend an event with them, wearing earplugs and an eye mask, and your practice would grow. They may talk about topics approved for CE, but if you listen (with your heart) you will hear so much more.
The event is held at the Westin Las Vegas Hotel and Spa (address below) which is just off the center of the Las Vegas Strip. I’ve attended chiropractic events here before. The conference rooms aren’t huge so everyone can gather in one central setting (I find this is KEY). The hotel isn’t huge (and isn’t focused on gambling) which increases the likeliness you can chat/dine with speakers and other attendees.
Speakers have been asked to remain in the conference room for others sessions, which significantly increases tonal vibration and allows for manifestation from higher planes. I have found this is one of the biggest secrets to hosting a powerful event, and the organizer has obviously discovered that too.
Let’s take a look at the postcards other side, addressed to my practice in Los Angeles.
While there’s going to be much more discussed, the highlighted CE stuff features…
- Spine Modeling Studies
- Clinical Chiropractic
- Chiropractic Protocol
- Evaluating the Whole Patient
- Dementia and Brain Health
- Nervous System and Subluxation
- Pediatric Chiropractic
As you can see on the postcard the event is $247 (for DCs) and dates are April 19 and April 20, 2019. Rate is likely an early bird rate so be sure to get on it if you are attending.
I have attended a lot of chiropractic events and have had the good fortune to make incredible friendships as a result. I am truly hoping you have that opportunity as well.
On the postcard I saw that Dr. John Bergman was speaking (awesome). I know John all the way back to my chiropractic school days at Cleveland Chiropractic College in Los Angeles.
He was excited about chiropractic then and he’s excited about chiropractic today.
He’s been featured on Planet Chiropractic before as part of our Business Card Karma series (August 2008 Edition) and during photo ops (with his son Michael) and his big red Ford F150 Chiropractor Truck.
Reminds me to do an updated post on chiropractors and their trucks.
The first time I saw Dr. Dan Yachter speak was at a Florida Chiropractic Society event in the 1990s. He is credited on Planet Chiropractic all the way back in August 2000 (it’s Chiropractic!) stating “We have a moral obligation to preserving the principles upon which chiropractic was founded and developed.”
I’ve seen and been inspired by so many principled chiropractors from Florida and Dr. Dan is one of them. It motivates me today that he still talks the TIC.
His unlimited energy and enthusiasm is what I’m talking about with vibrational tone, be in the room with him to experience what I speak of.
Dr. Dan Yachter is a co-founder of Elevation Health, and he practices in Lake Mary, Florida.
Two of my favorite people in the world of chiropractic are Dr. Fred and Susan Schofield. Not only can you learn a lot about practicing chiropractic from them, you can learn about living.
Dr. Fred came to the US in 1978 to pursue his goal of becoming a chiropractor in America. He has helped countless people along the way. I’ve seen Susan and Dr. Fred speak more times than I can count and it’s always a delight to be in their presence.
Together, they have operated one of the biggest high volume chiropractic practices in the US, and they have seen it all. If you have any questions about chiropractic procedures and practice I’d sit near them at this event.
I don’t know if the post card had the full speaker list but on it included…
- John Bergman, DC
- Susan Schofield
- Deed Harrison DC
- Ben Lerner, DC
- Fred Schofield, DC
- Bobby Doscher, DC
- Marc Harris, MD
- Tom McFie, DC PhD
- Dean DePice DC
- Peter Camiolo, DC
- Dan Yachter, DC
I could search the pages of Planet Chiropractic and find times I’ve listened to all the these individuals speak, but not likely at a single event. This will indeed be one room where you want to be in.
Get more information on the Room 1 Chiropractic Seminar 2019 page in the Chiropractic Seminars section of this site, or visit them directly at Room 1 Las Vegas. If you call to register (844-975-4321) tell them Dr. Michael Dorausch received his postcard.
Have an awesome day and thanks for doing what you do!
PS: Las Vegas hotel address is 160 E Flamingo Rd Las Vegas, NV 89109
Science of Chiropractic and Lifestyle Seminars
By Michael Dorausch, D.C.
Dr. James Chestnut’s Science of Chiropractic and Lifestyle Seminars are coming to Las Vegas starting in April 2019. Each module is a stand alone 12 hour Continuing Education approved seminar. The Evidence-based Chiropractic and Wellness Lifestyle Certification Program (C.C.W.P.) Module One begins April 6 – 7, 2019 in Las Vegas, NV.
In these seminars, you will learn how to communicate and educate patients and potential patients about the importance of chiropractic and lifestyle in an easy, systematic and effective way that increases compliance and results and practice success.
Do you want to have total understanding and confidence regarding the evidence-based clinical benefits and neurophysiological effects of:
- Chiropractic adjustment / SMT.
- Healthy nutrition and essential nutrient supplementation.
- Spinal and overall exercise and fitness.
- Healthy thoughts and attitudes and social environments.
Module 1 – The Science, Paradigm, and Clinical Application of Evidence-Based/Informed Chiropractic – The relationship between chiropractic, movement, NMS function, autonomic function, allostasis, and health. Implementing Evidence-Based/Informed patient assessment, reports, intervention, and education for Recovery, Wellness, and Prevention. Chiropractic made easy and systematic for doctors, staff, and patients.
“The information in these seminars not only provided scientific certainty regarding the need and value of chiropractic, it also provided evidence-based and practical nutrition, physical fitness, and psychological fitness advice that my patients love and actually follow! This program made me, my family, and my patients healthier. Best of all the info and implementation strategies are systematized, efficient, and super easy to implement, have grown my practice, and significantly improved my bottom line! As Dr. Chestnut says, what is more evidence-based and effective than chiropractic and lifestyle – NOTHING!” – Dr. Cory Webb, St. Louis, MO
Dr. James L. Chestnut has been studying human wellness and prevention for over 30 years. He holds a Bachelor of Physical Education degree, a Master of Science degree in exercise physiology with a specialization in neuromuscular adaptation, is a Doctor of Chiropractic, and holds a post-graduate Certification in Wellness Lifestyle. He is a peer-review published scientist and author, and an award-winning book author and lecturer. Dr. Chestnut is recognized as one of the world’s leading authorities on evidence-based chiropractic and lifestyle intervention and has been featured as a chiropractic and lifestyle expert in several documentaries.
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