QWR2025C

1

Quarterly World Report JULY 2025

Dr u m r oll t o m ic dr op: Copen h agen deliver s a sh ow st opper

PREMIER CORPORATE PARTNER

WFC News Education News Research News World News and more!

2

3 PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

M om en t u m , u n it y, an d t r an sit ion : a t r an sf or m at ive qu ar t er f or global ch ir opr act ic As we reflect on a truly dynamic quarter, I am filled with immense pride and optimism for the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC) and our remarkable global community. Our collective journey towards a healthier world, where every individual can thrive, continues to gain momentum. We are not just participants in healthcare, but leaders, constantly innovating and adapting to meet the evolving needs of patients worldwide.

May was a particularly vibrant month for the WFC, showcasing the strength and collaborative spirit of our profession. Our Board of Directors convened on May 3-4, 2025, laying important groundwork for the future. This was swiftly followed by our highly anticipated Assembly of Members on May 5-6, a truly enlightening experience where each member nation had the invaluable opportunity to present on the status of chiropractic in their country. It was inspiring to witness the diversity and growth of our profession worldwide and learn from each other 's unique journeys.

This collaborative spirit continued into the successful 18th Biennial Congress, held from May 7-10, 2025, which saw almost 1000 attendees! The energy was palpable - a truly wonderful time for learning, professional development, rekindling old friendships, and forging new connections within our global chiropractic family.

Our vision at the WFC is powerful and unwavering: ?A world where all people, of all ages, in all nations have access to evidence-based, people-centered, interprofessional and collaborative chiropractic care so that populations may thrive and reach their potential.? This isn't just a statement; it's a profound commitment to humanity. Our purpose "To advance awareness, utilization, and integration of chiropractic internationally" - serves as our guiding star, directing our efforts to make this vision a tangible reality. Our official relationship with the World Health Organization (WHO) further

Dr Kendrah Da Silva, WFC President

underscores our global influence and legitimacy in international health dialogues.

We are making significant strides in fulfilling our strategic objectives, which are the bedrock of our progress. We are actively working to create stakeholder value by identifying and addressing the diverse needs of our member national associations, fostering growth and sustainability within our profession.

A significant success in our journey to promote uniform high standards of education and practice globally is the progression of the WHO Technical report for Training in Chiropractic. We are pleased to report that this vital document is progressing well, with anticipated publication in early 2025. This initiative is crucial for ensuring consistency and quality in chiropractic education worldwide, fostering greater professional recognition. We also celebrate the completion of the International Test of Competence, a vital tool for elevating the standard and accessibility of chiropractic care. Our commitment to public

4

5 PRESIDENT'S MESSAGE

M om en t u m , u n it y, an d t r an sit ion : a t r an sf or m at ive qu ar t er f or global ch ir opr act ic health is also exemplified by the Global Patient Safety Initiative and our proactive involvement in areas like musculoskeletal health, healthy aging, addressing opioid misuse, and supporting women's, children's, and adolescents' health. These efforts align chiropractic with World Health Organization priorities, positioning us as essential contributors within the broader healthcare system.

As we look ahead, we also mark a significant transition within the WFC. On July 1st, we bid a heartfelt farewell to our esteemed Secretary-General, Professor Richard Brown.

Richard's leadership, dedication, and tireless efforts have profoundly shaped the WFC, leaving an indelible mark on our organization and the global chiropractic profession. Richard - thank you for your exceptional service and unwavering commitment. We wish you all the very best in your next chapter.

At the same time, we extend a warm welcome to Professor Brad Beira, who officially joined the WFC on April 1, 2025, stepping into the role of Secretary-General Designate. Brad brings a wealth of experience, vision, and energy, and we are incredibly excited to embark on this new chapter for the WFC under his leadership. With Brad at the

WFC Board of Directors 2024-2026

helm, alongside our dedicated team and your continued support, I am confident that we will reach new heights in advancing our vision and purpose.

The WFC is more than an organization; it's a vibrant community united by a shared belief in the power of chiropractic. As President of the WFC, I invite each of you to continue taking part in this shared mission. Whether you are a practitioner, researcher, educator, or student, your presence enriches our collective endeavor.

Together, we are shaping the next chapter of chiropractic care ? grounded in evidence, driven by compassion, and committed to our patients and communities.

Our collective strength lies in our unity, our purpose, and our unwavering commitment to the patients and communities we serve. We envision a future where chiropractic care is universally recognized, widely utilized, and fully integrated into healthcare systems worldwide.

This ambitious goal is achievable only through our unified efforts. I wish you a productive and inspiring quarter ahead and look forward to the continued strides we will make ? together.

Professor Brad Beira with Dr Kendrah Da Silva

6 WFC NEWS

New s f r om t h e boar dr oom The WFC Board of Directors met May 3?4, 2025, in Copenhagen, Denmark, for its Q2 meeting, chaired

by President Dr Kendrah Da Silva. The Board welcomed Secretary-General Designate Professor Brad Beira and Executive Operations Manager Ms Christina Davis, marking a period of leadership transition and strategic renewal.

The Board emphasized the WFC?s commitment to its vision, values, and global chiropractic leadership, reaffirming its focus on professional standards, governance integrity, and international collaboration.

A key theme was the WFC?s ongoing advocacy for protection of title and limiting spinal manipulation training to qualified chiropractors. Concerns were raised over recognition of non-chiropractors, especially in countries lacking statutory regulation.

The WFC remains committed to enforceable legislation, educational standards, and protecting the profession?s credibility.

The Board adopted policies on fiduciary duties, conflicts of interest, and risk management. A Risk

Management Committee was approved to support oversight. The Secretary-General?s report confirmed progress on WHO engagement, the Global Patient Safety Initiative, and SharePoint implementation.

Financial governance was strengthened through adoption of the 2025 budget, Financial Controls Policy, and Financial Risk Analysis. The Board emphasized fiscal discipline, avoiding recurring deficits, and increasing non-dues revenue.

Reports were received from regional representatives and committees, including public health, research, and education. Strategic event planning advanced with Utrecht, Netherlands, approved as host of the 2026 Global Education Conference, and updates on the 2027 Biennial Congress in Vancouver.

The Board also approved Tokyo, Japan, as host for the Q2 2026 meeting, supporting advocacy in Asia.

The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the WFC?s mission to uphold professional excellence and advance global chiropractic.

WFC BOARD OF DIRECTORS (2024-26)

RESEARCH COMMITTEE

Kendrah Da Silva (President)

African Region

Sidney Rubinstein DC, PhD (Chair) Netherlands

Ryan Coster (Vice-President)

North American Region

Holly Tucker (Secretary-Treasurer) North American Region

PUBLIC HEALTH COMMITTEE

Carlos Ayres

Latin American Region

Claire Johnson DC, MSEd, PhD (Chair) USA

Glenn Guilderson

North American Region

Andrew Lawrence

Pacific Region

John Maltby

North American Region

DISABILITY & REHABILITATION COMMITTEE

Jakob Lothe

European Region

Katie de Luca MAppSc, PhD (Chair) Australia

Efstathios Papadopoulos

Eastern Mediterranean Region

Pernille Popp

European Region

Hayden Thomas

Pacific Region

Dale White

North American Region

Yi Kai Wong

Asian Region

SECRETARIAT Brad Beira MTech C, LL.M (Secretary-General) Christina Davis (Executive Operations Manager) Rebekah Wilks BS, DC (Director of Strategy and Policy) Khalid Salim (Finance & Administration Manager) Natasha Herholdt (Marketing & Communications Officer)

7 SECRETARY-GENERAL'S MESSAGE

Car r yin g t h e pr of ession f or w ar d: voices, valu es an d vision This message marks my first formal and official communication to all of you, my colleagues, in our remarkable profession.

You, in your roles as academics, clinicians, educators, legislators, regulators, researchers, scientists, students, and professional bodies represent the constituents that make our profession diverse, rich, and rewarding in our service to each other, our patients and the communities that we support.

Our World Federation of Chiropractic was constituted in Sydney, Australia on October 2, 1988. David Chapman-Smith served as the first Secretary General, with Richard Brown succeeding him in 2015. I stand on the shoulders of giants as I continue their legacy of leadership for the WFC. I encourage all of you to listen to Richard?s recent podcast ?A decade of global progress with Dr. Richard Brown? and mine ?Meet the new WFC Secretary General? to get a deeper appreciation for Richard?s perspectives on the journey of our profession during his stewardship and equally to get to know a little more about me and my thoughts for the future.

the Global Patient Safety Initiative), the newly formed Committee on Official Relations with WHO, and the International Chiropractic Education Alliance is to be commended.

I acknowledge the investment in resources of experienced people, skills and time of chiropractic academic institutions and resource centers from around the world as part of our pursuit for the highest quality outcomes-based education and research.

To our partners, your financial and intellectual contributions support the chiropractic profession in a manner beyond which words can convey. We are humbled by your generosity of resources and spirit.

The oversight and stewardship of our Board members is to be commended. Their selfless contributions cannot be overstated as they meet and guide the secretariat to bring to the fore the needs and requirements of our 96 member associations in our seven regions, including our three member federations.

As we complete our leadership transition, I want to take the opportunity to thank our secretariat for their exemplary work.

This includes Sarah Villarba who was a central part of the team for 16 years and who retired this year, Christina Davis who returns to the WFC continuing her remarkable career back with us and who has now worked with all three Secretaries-General, Khalid Salim who has worked as part of the team for over 18 years, and Rebekah Wilks who balances her clinical work with her Strategy, Policy and World Spine Day contributions.

The selfless time and effort made by our committee members and contributors to our Disability & Rehabilitation Committee, Public Health Committee, Research Committee (including

Bradley Beira, WFC Secretary-General

8 WFC NEWS

Car r yin g t h e pr of ession f or w ar d: voices, valu es an d vision

CONTACTING THE WFC Wr it e t o u s:

It serves to say that you, our Member Associations and you, their members are our reason for being. We hold that purpose close in everything we do as we act as your primary focal point for the advocacy of our profession worldwide, including supporting your regulatory and legislative endeavors while we support the advancement of chiropractic in every country.

World Federation of Chiropractic, 2 St. Clair Avenue West,Toronto, Ontario M4V 1L5, Canada Call u s: +1 647 255 8030 Em ail u s: General enquiries

info@wfc.org

Brad Beira

bbeira@wfc.org

WFC agents act on your behalf in your absence, and by representing the interests and rights of our profession, fulfilling our duties and obligations on your behalf across the world and we will continue to do so.

Rebekah Wilks

rwilks@wfc.org

Khalid Salim

ksalim@wfc.org

Christina Davis

cdavis@wfc.org

We recognize the importance of the ?lived experience?. Ongoing, we plan to strengthen our storytelling of your experiences, the experiences of your patients and their communities and the success borne from our academic, educational and research-based endeavors.

The WFC welcomes news items, digital images and feature stories to include in the QWR. Send all submissions (in Word format) to QWR@wfc.org. Please note all submissions may be subject to editing.

Moving forward, we will continue to showcase the successes that you share with us from across the globe.

Within this QWR, we continue the tradition of celebrating your achievements and successes in your cities and practices and communities, events at the Biennial Congress in Copenhagen, and in Geneva at the World Health Assembly.

My first 100 days will be filled with conversations that count, in-person and virtual listening and learning sessions, as we chart the way forward together. I am a supporter of ?talk early, talk often, talk loud?so please reach out to me with your thoughts and ideas.

I am ?free that day?.

NEWS ITEM S

QWR ADVERTISING OPPORTUNITIES Full page color

US$995

Half page color

US$595

Quarter page color

US$395

A discount of 10% is applied to orders for multiple issues of the Quarterly World Report.

The WFC Quarterly World Report is published in January, April, July and October of each year.

Advertising copy, in high resolution pdf or jpeg format, is required fifteen days in advance of the publication date.

The World Federation of Chiropractic reserves the right to decline advertising. Inclusion of any advertising in the WFC Quarterly World Report does not in any way imply endorsement of any product or service.

9 WFC NEWS

Fr om m ic dr op t o dr u m r oll: Copen h agen deliver s a sh ow st opper Despite a modest population of just six million, Denmark has emerged as a global trailblazer in chiropractic.

This Scandinavian nation - home to one of the world?s happiest populations - boasts comprehensive chiropractic legislation, professional regulation, a world-class education program at the University of Southern Denmark, and one of the most productive chiropractic research hubs on the planet.

Central to Denmark?s chiropractic fairy tale (fittingly, in the land of Hans Christian Andersen)

has been its deep-rooted commitment to evidence-based practice. It was, therefore, entirely appropriate that the 18th WFC Biennial Congress was held in the capital city of Copenhagen, hosted by the Danish Chiropractors?Association.

Held at the Tivoli Hotel and Conference Centre from May 8-10, the 2025 Congress brought together the global chiropractic community for three immersive days of learning, dialogue, and connection.

The theme - Connecting the Dots of

The Tivoli Youth Garde provided an unforgettable opening ceremony as the perfect welcome to Copenhagen

10 WFC NEWS

Fr om m ic dr op t o dr u m r oll: Copen h agen deliver s a sh ow st opper Evidence-Based Practice - invited participants to explore the full spectrum of evidence-informed care, not as isolated ideas, but as interwoven elements of a cohesive professional identity. From clinical application to policy development, and from research generation to patient communication, the ?dots? of clinical, scientific, educational, political, and social practice were connected to build a truly comprehensive picture of excellence in chiropractic.

WFC President Dr Kendrah Da Silva, together with Danish hosts and government officials, opened the Congress with a call for unity, progress, and shared

Professor Jan Hartvigsen

practitioners, and policymakers. James Whedon (USA) elaborated on how analytics and healthcare data can inform chiropractic's value proposition, and Karina Dahl Steffensen (Denmark) emphasized shared decision-making as a cornerstone of patient-centered care.

Dr Soren O'Neill

vision. Keynote presentations by thought leaders such as Jan Hartvigsen (Denmark) and Christine Goertz (USA) set the tone. Both challenged delegates to embrace data, research, and patient values as the essential building blocks of chiropractic?s future. Across plenaries, breakout sessions, workshops, and poster presentations, evidence-based practice was not simply discussed - it was demonstrated.

Jan Hartvigsen highlighted the transformative power of big data and the vital role of chiropractors in multidisciplinary care models, while Christine Goertz underscored the need for cohesive thinking that aligns patients,

The Congress left no doubt that evidence-based practice is more than systematic reviews and clinical trials - it is a dynamic, integrative approach that balances research evidence, clinical expertise, and patient preferences. From real-world application to ethical care delivery, the message was clear: the future of chiropractic lies in the intelligent, compassionate use of evidence in all its forms.

Dr Christine Goertz

11 WFC NEWS

Fr om m ic dr op t o dr u m r oll: Copen h agen deliver s a sh ow st opper Breakout sessions catered to a wide spectrum of delegates, offering insights into pediatrics, geriatric care, sports chiropractic, extremity conditions, diagnostic imaging, concussion management, burnout, pain science, and the role of chiropractors in public health and rehabilitation.

Poster displays and research platforms showcased cutting-edge work from across all six WFC regions, reinforcing the Congress as a leading global scientific meeting.

In keeping with the WFC?s #BeEPIC campaign, the Congress emphasized evidence-based, people-centered, interprofessional, and

Dr Kelly Fleck

dialogue challenged assumptions and offered clear calls to action.

Saturday?s keynote by Pierre Côté (Canada) on chiropractic?s role in rehabilitation was followed

by Dr Scott Haldeman?s (USA) reflection on chiropractic?s remarkable research journey. Their messages were aligned: the future of chiropractic must be grounded in science, integrated with healthcare systems, and committed to high-quality, patient-focused outcomes.

Dr Michele Maiers presents at a DEI breakout workshop

collaborative practice. Whether attending as a student, seasoned clinician, researcher, educator, or policy leader, delegates found inspiration, practical tools, and tangible strategies to enhance their professional journey.

Workshops empowered delegates with new techniques, from taping and dry needling to biohacking and communication mastery.

Thought-provoking panels addressed the challenges of translating evidence into policy, the evolving demands of healthcare systems, and the imperative of patient safety. A standout session posed the provocative question: Are we too complacent about patient safety? The resulting

The Congress closed with the 2025 WFC Research Awards, celebrating groundbreaking contributions to the profession. A preview of the 2027 Congress in Vancouver, Canada, rounded

Dr Kristina Petrocco-Napuli

12

13 WFC NEWS

Fr om m ic dr op t o dr u m r oll: Copen h agen deliver s a sh ow st opper out the event, generating excitement for what promises to be another milestone in global chiropractic collaboration.

Beyond the academic excellence, the Congress was also a celebration of global unity and friendship.

Attendees spoke enthusiastically about the vibrant atmosphere, the seamless organization, and the genuine sense of community that permeated the event.

The highlight of the social program was Danish Night at the historic Langelinie Pavillonen, nestled beside Copenhagen?s iconic Little Mermaid statue.

With live entertainment, local cuisine, and the picturesque harbor setting, the evening captured the warmth and hospitality of the hosts and created unforgettable memories for delegates

The Congress attracted almost 1000 attendees from 49 countries

from all over the world. Saturday evening saw a glittering gala dinner, during which Dr Christine Goertz and Dr Martin Camara were honored with the David Chapman-Smith Honor Award, while outgoing Secretary-General Professor Richard Brown was honored for his service to the WFC. Whatever practice setting, career stage, or area of focus, the 2025 Congress offered something for everyone. Delegates left empowered to implement evidence-based interventions, inspired to pursue excellence, and reminded that, in the world of chiropractic, every practitioner - like every patient has a unique story to tell. In Copenhagen, the global profession gathered not only to learn but to lead.

Let the fairy tale continue.

14 WFC NEWS

Fr om m ic dr op t o dr u m r oll: Copen h agen deliver s a sh ow st opper

15 WFC NEWS

Fr om m ic dr op t o dr u m r oll: Copen h agen deliver s a sh ow st opper

16 WFC NEWS

Fr om m ic dr op t o dr u m r oll: Copen h agen deliver s a sh ow st opper

17 WFC NEWS

Fr om m ic dr op t o dr u m r oll: Copen h agen deliver s a sh ow st opper

18

19 WFC NEWS

Fr om m ic dr op t o dr u m r oll: Copen h agen deliver s a sh ow st opper

20 WFC NEWS

OBITUARY

Global pr of ession m ou r n s past Resear ch Com m it t ee ch air Gr eg Kaw ch u k - ch ir opr act or , r esear ch er an d m en t or It is with great sorrow that the chiropractic community has received the news of Professor Greg Kawchuk?s passing.

Greg Kawchuk was a creative and visionary researcher, an exceptional teacher and communicator, and a passionate advocate for evidence-based practice. His tireless work in chiropractic and musculoskeletal research had a profound and lasting impact worldwide. With a unique blend of curiosity, personal integrity, generosity, humor, and unwavering dedication, he pushed the boundaries of knowledge - always with the best interests of research and patients in mind. He challenged the status quo, dared to ask difficult questions, and elevated both professionalism and morale for everyone fortunate enough to work with him.

Professor Kawchuk graduated as a chiropractor from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College in 1990. He practiced as a chiropractor for 15 years and earned his PhD from the University of Calgary in 2000. He later became the first chiropractor appointed as a professor at the University of Alberta in the Department of Physical Therapy, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine. Since 2004, he held the prestigious

Grek Kawchuk was one of the mentors of the Chiropractic Academy of Research Leadership (CARL)

Professor Greg Kawchuk, who has passed away after a short illness at the age of 61

title of Canada Research Chair in Spinal Function.

As a researcher, he published more than 150 international scientific articles and received major research grants from Canadian and American national and private funders.

Professor Kawchuk was especially known for his ability to communicate and inspire those around him. When researchers were scheduled to speak at conferences alongside him, there was often competition to avoid speaking after him. His communication skills were so exceptional that he consistently outshone others. ?To be Kawchuk?ed? came to mean having the unfortunate slot right after his talk. He was also a frequent guest in Canadian and international print and electronic media.

Professor Kawchuk was dedicated to mentoring younger researchers and was widely valued. As a

21 WFC NEWS

Global pr of ession m ou r n s past Resear ch Com m it t ee ch air Gr eg Kaw ch u k - ch ir opr act or , r esear ch er an d m en t or

Par t n er in g f or pr im ar y car e r eh ab: WFC in act ion w it h WHO an d ICN

co-founder and mentor in CARL (Chiropractic Academy of Research Leadership), he helped develop talented young researchers from around the world. Colleagues turned to him for both professional and personal guidance, always receiving thoughtful and wise advice.

The WFC, as a founding member of the WHO World Rehabilitation Alliance (WRA), has actively contributed to its initiatives since the Alliance?s launch in 2023. WFC representatives have participated across three core WRA work streams: Primary Care, Research, and Health Workforce. Dr Deborah Kopansky-Giles represents the WFC within the Primary Care Work Stream (PCWS), which advocates for integrating rehabilitation into primary care under Universal Health Coverage, improving global access to services for individuals of all ages and backgrounds.

Denmark held a special place in his heart. From 2014 to 2023, he was affiliated with the Chiropractic Knowledge Hub as a visiting researcher, and from 2014 he served as an adjunct professor at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU).

He and his wife Janet spent two months in Denmark each year. ?When you hire Greg, you get two for one,? as Janet once said.

He contributed not only with his vast knowledge and professionalism, but both he and Janet enriched daily life and social events with their warmth and social skills. They took a genuine interest in all staff at the Knowledge Hub and SDU, forming many friendships in Odense beyond the academic environment.

Professor Kawchuk will be remembered for his warm and generous personality, his ability to listen, and his tireless support for friends, colleagues, and students. He leaves behind a truly special professional and personal legacy that will live on. He will be deeply missed.

Thoughts are with Janet, their two adult sons, Jonathan and Michael, and with his parents, Eileen and Don, who survive him. His memory will be honored by continuing the work he so passionately championed - for a world where integrity, science, critical thinking, compassion, and humor go hand in hand.

An early focus of the PCWS was building collaborations with major international health organizations. The PCWS identified WONCA (World Organization of Family Doctors), the NCD Alliance, and the International Council of Nurses (ICN) as key partners in advancing rehabilitation goals. A PCWS sub-group, including Dr Kopansky-Giles, was tasked with engaging the ICN, which represents nursing associations from over 140 countries and millions of nurses worldwide.

Over the past year, the sub-group has collaborated with ICN leadership, contributing to newsletters and reports, providing evidence on the nursing role in rehabilitation, and successfully submitting a symposium proposal for ICN?s 2025 Congress in Helsinki. At this prestigious event, Dr Kopansky-Giles, alongside Peter Preziosi and Kaisa Jokinen, delivered an interactive symposium attended by over 100 nurses from across the globe. The session received strong engagement and positive feedback, with follow-up requests for materials, continued dialogue, and future collaboration opportunities.

Dr Kopansky-Giles was generously sponsored to attend the conference by the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College.

22 WFC NEWS

Wor ld Spin e Day 2025: 'In vest In You r Spin e set f or global im pact !

World Spine Day 2025, themed "Invest in Your Spine," is poised for global impact, emphasizing spinal health as crucial for overall well-being.

With millions suffering from spinal pain, this campaign highlights proactive investment in spinal health for a more fulfilling life.

This year has seen strategic growth, including a new Marketing and Communications Officer and the finalization of a 2025-2030 global strategy.

A new 3-pronged outreach initiative targets governments, educational institutions, and organizations to maximize reach.

Inspired by South Africa's model, we aim for World Spine Day to be integrated into national calendars worldwide. Educational institutions will receive guidance on incorporating World Spine Day into clerkship and public health curricula.

If you have a government contact or are affiliated with an educational institution and would like to be involved, please email us at worldspineday@wfc.org.

Our 4-pronged communications approach will specifically engage legislators and regulators, schools and clinics, individuals and families, as well as organizations.

We extend our sincere gratitude to Foot Levelers for their generous donation to the WFC World Spine Day competition, offering prize money for outstanding events (details at wfc.org/world-spine-day).

World Spine Day reaches over 1 billion people through diverse campaigns, and our digital presence is soaring.

As of March, follower growth has exceeded similar initiatives by 300%. All platforms show robust growth, complemented by a redesigned newsletter and resource toolkit.

Whether you're an individual committed to your own health or part of a larger collective, we invite you to visit www.worldspineday.org for resources.

We encourage you to like, follow, and share our updates on Facebook, Instagram, X, and LinkedIn to amplify our message and reach more people worldwide.

World Spine Day is estimated to reach in excess of 1 billion people

Join us in making World Spine Day 2025 a resounding success!

23 WFC NEWS

Hon or in g a decade of leader sh ip: in au gu r al EPIC Aw ar d pr esen t ed t o Rich ar d Br ow n At the opening ceremony of the 18th WFC Biennial Congress in Copenhagen, WFC President Dr Kendrah da Silva delivered a powerful welcome to delegates from around the world. Her presentation celebrated the rich diversity of the chiropractic community, the unity that binds it, and the visionary leadership that has shaped its trajectory over the past decade.

Central to her address was a heartfelt tribute to Professor Richard Brown, who served as Secretary-General of the WFC from 2015 to 2025.

Speaking to a global audience, Dr da Silva honored a leader who helped transform the WFC into a more collaborative, inclusive, and evidence-informed organization.

In her speech, Dr Da Silva described Professor Brown as a ?bridge-builder and tireless advocate? whose legacy would continue to influence the profession for generations.

Under his stewardship, the WFC broadened its global reach, built enduring partnerships, and strengthened its commitment to the core values of evidence-based, people-centered, interprofessional, and collaborative care. These values, widely known through the acronym EPIC,

On receiving the award named in his honor, Richard Brown paid tribute to his wife of 35 years, Caroline

became the bedrock of the WFC?s work and the foundation for its public identity.

To recognize this lasting impact, the WFC Board of Directors announced the establishment of a new honor: the Richard Brown EPIC Award. To be presented at each WFC Congress, the award will acknowledge an individual whose work exemplifies the values of EPIC care and reflects a commitment to advancing chiropractic worldwide.

In a poignant and emotional moment, the inaugural EPIC Award was presented to Professor Brown himself.

He was joined on stage by a number of past WFC Presidents, incoming Secretary-General Professor Brad Beira, and founding Secretary-General Mr David Chapman-Smith. The ceremony served not only as a recognition of his accomplishments, but as a celebration of his humility, integrity, and dedication to the global chiropractic community.

Closing her remarks, Dr da Silva reflected on Professor Brown?s enduring legacy: ?You are - and always will be - EPIC in every sense of the word.?

Before WFC past presidents and the past Secretary-General, Richard Brown receives the Richard Brown EPIC Award

24

25 WFC NEWS

WFC Pu blic Healt h Com m it t ee advan ces global agen da on pr even t ion , w elln ess, an d lif espan car e The Public Health Committee (PHC) of the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC) continues its role as a global advisory group, providing guidance to the WFC Board on matters relevant to public health and chiropractic practice.

Its mission is to identify health priorities, promote initiatives, and align with the WFC?s strategy and World Health Organization (WHO) goals.

Chaired by Dr Claire Johnson (USA), the committee includes experts from WFC regions: Dr Mustafa Agaoglu (UK/Türkiye), Dr Dawn Dane (Australia), Dr Elga Drews (Namibia), Dr David Peeace (Canada), Dr Mayda Serrano (USA), Dr Alli Totzke-Hitzeroth (USA), and Dr Yi Kai Wong (Malaysia). Their collective expertise spans education, policy, practice, and population health.

Dr Claire Johnson chairs the WFC Public Health Committee

Over the past two years, the PHC has developed position statements on healthy diet and nutrition, unintentional injury prevention, tobacco cessation, and quality of care. Over 40 public health notices were disseminated via WFC digital channels, offering timely, evidence-based resources for the chiropractic community.

Looking to 2029, the PHC aims to expand its guidance by identifying gaps, updating outdated policies, and developing new position statements. It also seeks to raise awareness within the profession about how public health principles can be integrated into clinical practice.

A major focus is the development of a global public health research agenda. This includes identifying literature gaps and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration among chiropractic researchers, educators, and leaders to strengthen evidence supporting chiropractic?s role in prevention and health promotion.

The PHC has outlined priority areas including spinal and musculoskeletal conditions, injury prevention, functional improvement, and physical activity promotion - core themes in non-communicable disease management and disability prevention. Additional focus areas include sports injury prevention, neurological and mental health, and screening practices.

Future statements will explore health across the lifespan - healthy aging, child and adolescent health, and person-centered care.

Sub-populations such as athletes, women and men, and individuals with disabilities will also receive targeted attention.

Through these efforts, the PHC remains committed to advancing an inclusive, evidence-informed public health agenda for chiropractic worldwide.

26

27 WFC NEWS

M ak in g Ever y Con t act Cou n t (M ECC): a pu blic h ealt h r ole f or ch ir opr act or s In the face of rising pressures on health systems, widening health inequalities, and a growing emphasis on prevention, the role of everyday health professionals in promoting well-being has never been more critical. Chiropractors, often trusted figures in community-based care, are uniquely positioned to support healthier behaviors - one conversation at a time.

The Making Every Contact Count (MECC) framework encourages all health and care professionals to use brief, opportunistic interactions to promote lifestyle change.

Whether it?s discussing physical activity, highlighting stress management techniques, or signposting to local services, even short conversations can plant seeds of long-term health improvement.

Chiropractic care often involves regular, one-on-one engagement with patients - an ideal context for brief but meaningful interventions.

Musculoskeletal conditions, particularly low back pain, frequently overlap with lifestyle factors such as inactivity, poor diet, stress, and poor sleep. Chiropractors already take a holistic view of patient care - MECC provides a simple structure for extending this impact further.

Take, for example, a patient with recurring back pain. Alongside manual therapy, a conversation about increasing daily activity or reducing sedentary time can be transformative. Asking how they?ve been coping with stress, or whether they?ve considered joining a local walking group, adds value without adding burden. ?Chiropractors are ideally placed to contribute to health promotion and disease prevention,? said Professor Richard Brown, former WFC Secretary-General and a Fellow of the Royal Society for Public Health (RSPH). ?Making Every Contact Count reinforces the idea that every interaction is an opportunity - not just to treat

Richard Brown is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Public Health

pain, but to support positive, lasting change in patients?lives.?

MECC isn?t about delivering perfect advice - it?s about starting conversations. Research shows that even brief advice, when delivered by a trusted practitioner, can influence behavior change over time.

Common barriers, such as concerns about time, training, or saying the "right thing," can be overcome. MECC e-learning resources and behavior change training from organizations like RSPH are accessible and practical for chiropractors.

As the chiropractic profession continues to advocate for its role in integrated, people-centered care, MECC reinforces the idea that chiropractors are part of the wider public health workforce. In today?s complex health landscape, this preventative approach isn?t optional - it?s essential.

28 WFC NEWS

WFC Resear ch Com m it t ee w or k sh op spu r s global dialogu e on t h e f u t u r e of ch ir opr act ic scien ce At the 18th World Federation of Chiropractic Biennial Congress in Copenhagen, the WFC Research Committee (RC) hosted a lively and thought-provoking workshop that brought together researchers, educators, and clinicians from across the globe.

Designed as a panel discussion, the session quickly evolved into an open, participant-driven forum exploring the challenges and opportunities shaping the future of chiropractic research.

The conversation began with a focus on knowledge translation and mobilization, with attendees emphasizing the critical need for researchers to communicate their findings in accessible and compelling ways.

Strategies such as storytelling, short-form video, and targeted messaging were discussed, along

Members of the WFC Research Committee hosted a lively interactive session

with the value of partnerships with dissemination experts, media groups, and professional organizations. Groups like the WFC Research Committee, RAND REACH Center, and national chiropractic associations were recognized as essential allies in ensuring that research reaches clinicians, patients, and policymakers alike.

Attention then turned to the importance of methodological diversity, as panelists highlighted the synergies between basic science and translational research.

Examples included ongoing studies into the mechanisms of spinal manipulation and efforts to identify biomarkers for chronic low back pain.

One panelist shared how interdisciplinary collaboration, despite early pressure to specialize, had helped build credibility and capacity in their research career.

Themes of implementation science and health equity emerged as participants discussed the urgent need to direct research efforts toward underserved populations, such as veterans, Indigenous communities, and those in rural and remote areas.

Leveraging existing systems, including VA hospitals and federally qualified health centers (FQHCs), was seen as a key strategy for improving access and outcomes. Participants emphasized the importance of culturally responsive care models, collaborative research with community stakeholders, and the integration of chiropractic into interdisciplinary teams. Strengthening data collection and outcome reporting within these populations was also identified as essential for informing health policy and driving sustainable change. A rich discussion on informed consent followed, delving into regulatory frameworks, shared decision-making, and the balance between clinical autonomy and standardized protocols.

Participants agreed that fostering a culture of transparency and patient safety is essential.

The workshop closed with a shared call to action: pursue chiropractic research with integrity, inclusivity, and purpose, recognizing that each contributor has a role in advancing safer, more effective, and more equitable care worldwide.

29 WFC NEWS

Celebr at in g ch ir opr act ic scien ce: 2025 WFC Resear ch Aw ar ds sh ow case global in n ovat ion an d im pact The 18th World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC) Biennial Congress once again highlighted the critical role of research in advancing the science, education, and clinical practice of chiropractic. At the center of this year ?s Congress were the prestigious research awards, recognizing excellence, innovation, and global contribution to the chiropractic profession.

The WFC?NCMIC Louis Sportelli Research Paper Awards, generously sponsored by NCMIC Inc., honored exceptional

original research with clear potential to impact the field.

Named in recognition of Dr. Louis Sportelli, whose lifelong service and leadership have significantly shaped the profession - these awards aim to support high-quality, evidence-based chiropractic research. In 2025, a total of $25,500 USD in prize money was awarded to outstanding researchers for their contributions.

Complementing this, the Poster Awards, sponsored by the International Board of

Award winners at the 18th WFC Biennial Congress, held May 7-10, Copenhagen, Denmark

Award winners at the 18th WFC Biennial Congress, held May 7-10, Copenhagen, Denmark

Chiropractic Examiners (IBCE), recognized visually engaging and scientifically sound research posters. These awards provided an important platform for both emerging and established researchers to present their findings in an accessible and impactful format.

This year, a total of 186 abstracts were received. Following a rigorous peer review process, 72 abstracts were selected for platform presentation, while 102 were invited as posters. The high volume and quality of submissions reflect the

30 WFC NEWS

Celebr at in g ch ir opr act ic scien ce: 2025 WFC Resear ch Aw ar ds sh ow case global in n ovat ion an d im pact continued growth, engagement, and scientific maturity of the global chiropractic research community.

Eligibility for the research awards required acceptance through this initial peer-review process, followed by submission to a dedicated award competition. Oversight of the process was led by Co-Chairs Professor Sidney Rubinstein and Dr. Henrik Wulff Christensen, with additional review by Professor Richard Brown and Dr. Claire Johnson. The judging panel comprised internationally respected researchers, including:

Dr Peter Emary (center) being presented with the Scott Haldeman Award for Research Excellence

Dr. Michael Schneider? University of Pittsburgh, inaugural Director of the chiropractic program;

Dr. Michael Swain? Macquarie University, Australia.

Dr. Keseri Padayachy? KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, focused on musculoskeletal health data;

Through a multi-step evaluation using a rigorous scoring system, the most impactful and methodologically sound research was selected for recognition.

Dr. Peter Wayne? Harvard Medical School and Osher Center for Integrative Medicine;

18t h WFC Bien n ial Con gr ess: NCM IC Resear ch Aw ar d w in n er s Scot t Haldem an Aw ar d f or Ou t st an din g Resear ch (US$10,000) The impact of chiropractic care on prescription opioid use for non-cancer spine pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis Peter Emary, Kelsey Corcoran, Brian Coleman, Amy Brown, Carla Ciraco, Jenna DiDonato, Li Wang, Rachel Couban, Abhimanyu Sud, Jason Busse This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated whether chiropractic care

reduces prescription opioid use in adults with non-cancer spine pain. Researchers analyzed data from 2 randomized controlled trials (838 participants) and 18 cohort studies (over 5.2 million participants). The findings suggest that chiropractic care, compared to standard medical care alone, may be associated with significantly lower odds of receiving prescription opioids by 34% to 65% - and a 73% reduction in the odds of initiating long-term opioid use.

Absolute reductions ranged from 10% to 16% for initiating

opioid use and 3% for long-term use. Despite these promising trends, the overall certainty of evidence was rated as very low due to methodological limitations and study heterogeneity. The authors conclude that while chiropractic care may help reduce opioid reliance for spine-related pain, high-quality randomized controlled trials are necessary to confirm these

31 WFC NEWS

18t h WFC Bien n ial Con gr ess: NCM IC Resear ch Aw ar d Win n er s outcomes and establish stronger clinical and policy guidance.

NCM IC-JM PT Resear ch Aw ar d (US$6,250) Update Of A Cochrane Review: Spinal Manipulative Therapy For Chronic Low-Back Pain Annemarie De Zoete, Tiziano Innocenti, John Petrozzi, Marienke van Middelkoop, Pim Assendelft, Michiel de Boer, Maurits van Tulder, Sidney Rubinstein This updated Cochrane review assessed the effectiveness and safety of spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) for chronic low-back pain (LBP), incorporating evidence up to October 2024.

A total of 76 randomized controlled trials (11,866 participants) were included, though many recent studies were small in size.

Compared to no treatment, SMT provided moderate pain relief and functional improvement.

When compared to sham or placebo SMT, the effects were smaller - showing minimal pain relief and modest functional gains. Against other conservative treatments, SMT showed a small benefit for both pain and function.

Overall, the certainty of evidence ranged from very low to low. Adverse events, reported in 32 studies, were generally mild to moderate and related to musculoskeletal effects.

The findings are consistent with the 2019 BMJ review, indicating SMT may be a reasonable option for chronic LBP. The authors recommend halting further small RCTs to avoid research redundancy and focus on higher-quality studies.

NCM IC-JM PT Resear ch Aw ar d (US$6,250) Patient safety culture research within the chiropractic profession: a scoping review Debbie Wright, Maranda Kleppe, Brian Coleman, Martha Funabashi, Amy Ferguson, Richard Brown, Sidney Rubinstein, Katherine A

Pohlman, Stacie Salsbury This scoping review explored research trends, themes, and gaps related to patient safety culture within the chiropractic profession.

A comprehensive search of five databases up to December 2024 identified 64 relevant studies published between 1990 and 2024, with only two randomized controlled trials.

Seven key themes emerged: adverse event research, clinical trial safety reporting, patient safety attitudes, clinical decision-making, informed consent, reporting and learning systems, and office sanitization/general safety topics. Most studies focused on safety performance (95%) and strategies (66%), with fewer addressing safety climate (48%) and core beliefs/values (23%).

When mapped against the WHO Global Patient Safety Action Plan, key gaps included patient engagement, leadership, policy development, and interprofessional collaboration.

The review calls for standardized adverse event reporting, enhanced communication, and evidence-based interventions to strengthen patient and workforce safety.

Findings highlight the need to build a more robust safety culture in chiropractic, essential for improving transparency and reinforcing public trust in the profession.

NCM IC New In vest igat or Aw ar d (US$3,000) Evaluation of National Musculoskeletal Health Policies in the United Kingdom: A Policy Analysis.

Faye Deane, Michelle Maiers, Daniel Moore, Paul Chesterton, Ryan Cormac, Amelia Lake, Denis Martin This policy analysis evaluated national musculoskeletal (MSK) health policies in the United Kingdom to identify opportunities for sustainable healthcare improvements. Using Arksey and O?Malley?s policy mapping framework and Walt & Gilson?s Policy Analysis Triangle, five relevant policy

32 WFC NEWS

18t h WFC Bien n ial Con gr ess: NCM IC Resear ch Aw ar d Win n er s documents (2016?2025) were identified from a review of 6,511 sources.

Six key themes emerged: prevention, integrated and person-centered care, equity, workforce development and collaboration, digital innovation, and systemic challenges.

Prevention was a dominant focus, emphasizing patient empowerment, self-management, and alignment with public health strategies.

Workforce development aimed to address regional disparities in MSK care delivery.

However, the analysis revealed significant gaps, including limited attention to rehabilitation, pain management, and implementation processes.

Policies were heavily content-focused, often lacking clear, actionable strategies for real-world application.

L>R Faye Deane, Peter Emary, Anne Marie de Zoete

The study concludes that future MSK health policies should prioritize equitable, patient-centered outcomes, include robust implementation frameworks, and better integrate MSK care into broader health systems to achieve meaningful and sustainable impact across the UK.

Hon or able M en t ion Association of cognitive impairment and spinal pain in the older adult population in the United States: A secondary analysis of cross-sectional data from the 1999-2000 and 2001-2002 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey Katie de Luca, Haiou Yang, Scott Haldeman, Eric Hurwitz, Patricia Tavares, Bart Green, Hannah Dale

Hon or able M en t ion Lumbar intervertebral disc deformation during spinal manipulative therapy Martha Funabashi, Daniel Kim, Kieran Bennett, Dhara Amin, Gregory Kawchuk, John Costi

Hon or able M en t ion Trajectories of primary healthcare utilization in Danish adults with spinal pain: a cohort study

Casper Nim, Jan Hartvigsen, Christian Skovsgaard, Alice Kongsted, Aron Downie, Stine Clausen

Hon or able M en t ion How do patient-reported visual pain trajectories relate to patients' SMS-measured pain patterns?

Michelle Frederiksen, Aron Downie, Alice Kongsted, Casper Nim

Hon or able M en t ion Longer-term Outcomes of Chiropractic Care for US Active-duty Military Personnel with Low Back Pain from a Pragmatic Clinical Trial Subsample Zacariah Shannon, Cynthia Long, Robert Vining, Jacob McCarey, Christine Goertz

Hon or able M en t ion From skepticism to integration: Adoption of mobile health apps in Danish Chiropractic practice ? a mixed methods study Mette Sørensen, Madalina Jaeger, Mette Stochkendahl

33 WFC NEWS

18t h WFC Bien n ial Con gr ess: IBCE Post er Aw ar d Win n er s The International Board of Chiropractic Examiners (IBCE) proudly sponsored the Poster Awards Competition at the 18th World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC) Biennial Congress, held in Copenhagen, Denmark. This competition formed an integral part of the Congress?s commitment to advancing chiropractic research and promoting excellence in scientific communication.

Poster presentations played a vital role in the Congress program. As a widely used format in scientific conferences, posters enabled researchers to present their work in a concise,

visually engaging, and accessible way. They encouraged scholarly dialogue, peer learning, and networking opportunities - particularly for early-career researchers and those presenting preliminary or practice-based findings.

Following a rigorous peer-review process, 102 abstracts were selected for poster presentation.

All accepted posters were automatically entered into the IBCE Poster Awards Competition, which aimed to recognize outstanding contributions to chiropractic science and practice.

Three award categories were offered. The First Prize (US$3,000) was awarded to the most outstanding poster overall. The Second Prize (US$1,750) recognized the next highest-ranked submission. Best in Region awards of US$750 were presented to top posters representing each of the WFC?s seven world regions: Africa, Asia, Eastern Mediterranean, Europe, Latin America, North America, and the Pacific.

Posters were evaluated by an international panel of judges with expertise in chiropractic research, clinical practice, and education. Criteria included originality, methodological quality, clarity and visual presentation, relevance to musculoskeletal health, and overall impact.

The IBCE Poster Awards served not only to honor individual excellence but also to highlight the global scope of chiropractic research and the value of knowledge sharing across cultures and health systems. The WFC expressed sincere gratitude to the IBCE for its generous support of this initiative, which continues to elevate the visibility, credibility, and scientific strength of the chiropractic profession worldwide.

L>R Katherine Pohlman, Sidney Rubinstein, Karlos Boghosian (President of IBCE)

34

35 WFC NEWS

18t h WFC Bien n ial Con gr ess: IBCE Post er Aw ar d Win n er s

L>R Katherine Pohlman, Casper Nim, Sidney Rubinstein, Karlos Boghosian (President of IBCE)

Best Over all Post er (US$3,000) Incidence of spinal radiculopathy and surgery among Danes aged 6-17 years: A nationwide population-based cohort study Casper Nim This nationwide cohort study investigated the incidence of spinal radiculopathy and related surgeries among Danish children and adolescents aged 6?17 years from 2009 to 2021. Using comprehensive national registry data, the study identified 873 individuals diagnosed with spinal radiculopathy, with annual incidence rates ranging from 4.5 to 9.3 per 100,000. Surgical intervention was rare: only 16 patients underwent spine-related surgery (discectomy, decompression, or fusion), resulting in an incidence density of 2.4 surgeries per 1,000 person-years. Among those who had surgery, the median time from diagnosis to procedure was just 4 days. These findings confirm that spinal radiculopathy in this age group is uncommon, and when it does occur, it is typically managed non-surgically. However, clinicians -

including chiropractors and other primary care providers? should remain aware of the condition to ensure timely diagnosis and appropriate referral when needed. This study provides important baseline data for understanding the burden and management of pediatric radiculopathy in Denmark.

Secon d Pr ize (US$1,750) A qualitative study exploring the experiences of chiropractors of the Sports and Exercise Research Collaborative for Health Practice-based Research Network (SERCH-PBRN) conducting research in their clinical practices.

Alexander Lee

36 WFC NEWS

18t h WFC Bien n ial Con gr ess: IBCE Post er Aw ar d Win n er s WFC Af r ican Region (US$750) A Comparison of MHSc Chiropractic Students and Emergency Care Practitioners?Ability to Diagnose Emergency and Musculoskeletal Pathologies: A Pilot Study Christopher Yelverton WFC Asian Region (US$750) Exploring the Stakeholders' Perceptions of the Factors Influencing Chiropractic Care Utilisation Among Blue-Collar Workers: Implications for Improved Musculoskeletal Health Outcomes Natalie Ziqing Chin WFC Eu r opean Region (US$750) ?Am I not going to talk to any medical doctors

L>R Katherine Pohlman, Natalie Ziqing Chin, Sidney Rubinstein, Karlos Boghosian (President of IBCE)

today??Effective and ineffective interactional practices in spinal pain clinic consultation.

Lise Hestbaek WFC Latin American Region (US$750) Correlation Between Student Performance on National Chiropractic Boards Part I and the Innovative Curriculum of the School of Chiropractic at UCC in Puerto Rico Kimberleve Rolon-Reyes WFC Nor t h Am er ican Region (US$750) A qualitative analysis of the recovery trajectory following a pre-operative rehabilitation program for symptomatic lumbar spinal stenosis surgery Nora Bakaa WFC Pacif ic Region (US$750) From Adjustment to Insight: EHR Data Quality Assessments for Chiropractic Research Melinda Wassell

L>R Katherine Pohlman, Kimberleve Rolon-Reyes, Sidney Rubinstein, Karlos Boghosian (President of IBCE)

37 WFC NEWS

Global collabor at ion an d in n ovat ion def in e 2025 ICEA an n u al m eet in g in Copen h agen

Educational leaders from around the world decended on Copenhagen for the annual meeting of the International Chiropractic Education Alliance

On May 7, 2025, chiropractic education leaders from around the world convened at the Tivoli Hotel and Conference Center in Copenhagen, Denmark, for the Annual Meeting of the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC) International Chiropractic Education Alliance (ICEA). The event marked a significant step forward for global cooperation, innovation, and strategic planning in chiropractic education.

Opening the meeting, WFC Secretary-General

Professor Richard Brown welcomed attendees and emphasized ICEA's mission to unite educators and institutions in advancing chiropractic education worldwide. Dr Deb Bushway set the tone with a call for balance between honoring chiropractic's roots and embracing the evolution of education in response to global health needs. She stressed the importance of educational standards, regulation, and global leadership.

38 WFC NEWS

Global collabor at ion an d in n ovat ion def in e 2025 ICEA an n u al m eet in g in Copen h agen Professor Brown?s keynote laid out a bold vision for ICEA?s future. Central themes included fostering global networks, aligning educational standards, promoting faculty and student exchange, integrating technology, and advocating for chiropractic education at the policy level. His address underscored ICEA?s potential to shape a globally connected and future-focused educational community.

Dr Claire Johnson (CERF, USA) delivered a compelling message on the need for rigorous educational research, calling for a culture shift that prioritizes evidence-informed teaching practices. She highlighted CERF?s work and announced the development of a global chiropractic education research agenda, encouraging participation in the 2026 WFC Education Conference in Utrecht, Netherlands.

Dr Dominic Giuliano (CMCC, Canada) shared his 15-year journey developing and implementing force-sensing table technology in chiropractic training. His presentation illustrated the power of institutional support and innovation in transforming educational outcomes.

A thought-provoking panel explored the complexities of global accreditation. Participants including Drs Chris Yelverton, Sumaya Ahmed, Craig Little, and Professor Brad Beira discussed the discrepancies in interpretation and application of accreditation standards. They emphasized ICEA?s role in facilitating harmonization efforts and called for shared frameworks to promote student mobility and quality assurance.

The international collaboration panel, featuring leaders from the Philippines, UK, Australia, and the US, showcased initiatives addressing local needs through global support. Discussions focused on low-cost program models, faculty

The ICEA meeting was hosted by Deb Bushway (NWHSU) and Richard Brown (WFC)

exchange, curriculum consistency, and operational challenges, all framed within the values of inclusion and equity.

A regional roundtable highlighted emerging trends and common challenges in chiropractic education. Key themes included rising educational costs, curriculum innovation, and the need for greater interprofessional integration. Panelists called for strategic partnerships and the harmonization of competencies.

World Spine Day, presented by Dr Rebekah Wilks, was championed as a vital public health

39 WFC NEWS

Global collabor at ion an d in n ovat ion def in e 2025 ICEA an n u al m eet in g in Copen h agen initiative. Institutions were encouraged to engage through education, outreach, and participation in the annual campaign to raise awareness about spinal health.

Daniel Moore outlined four strategic workstreams for ICEA: global roundtables, faculty development, seed funding for small-scale projects, and student collaborations. He emphasized practical implementation and member engagement over the coming 18 months.

Small group discussions led by David Byfield, Christine Bradaric-Baus, Ron Oberstein, and Norman Ouzts identified faculty development, student engagement, and research capacity building as top priorities. Participants committed to actionable follow-up steps to ensure momentum.

The meeting concluded with reflections from Dr Bushway and Professor Brown, who reiterated ICEA?s role as a

convener and catalyst for global educational excellence. They called for sustained engagement, wider membership, and a shared commitment to innovation, equity, and collaboration.

With strong participation, bold ideas, and a clear vision, the 2025 ICEA Annual Meeting reaffirmed the alliance's role in shaping the future of chiropractic education on a global scale.

40 WFC NEWS

Fu jit ega Fou n dat ion an n ou n ced as lat est WFC cor por at e par t n er The WFC is pleased to announce the Fujitega Foundation as its newest Bronze-level Corporate Partner. This exciting partnership reflects a shared commitment to advancing chiropractic through research, education, and global collaboration in support of high standards of patient care and professional development.

Founded by Arantxa Ortega, BSc, PhD, and Ricardo Fujikawa, the Fujitega Research Foundation is a dynamic organization based in Spain. Together with renowned spine surgeon Dr. Luis Álvarez-Galovich, they form the Foundation?s Board of Governors, bringing together chiropractic and medical expertise in pursuit of excellence and innovation.

The Foundation?s mission is to elevate chiropractic by supporting high-quality, evidence-based research and education. Through clinical and pre-clinical studies, original publications, and the development of tools that translate science into everyday practice, the Fujitega Foundation is helping to build a stronger, data-informed profession that meets the evolving needs of patients and practitioners alike. ?Guided by values of integrity, service, perseverance, and collaboration, we strive to bridge the gap between research and real-world care,? says Dr Ortega. ?Initiatives like appRIQ, our research app, empower chiropractors to participate in studies directly from their clinics, making evidence-based practice more accessible and impactful.?

The Foundation also invests in developing innovative methodologies and nurturing early-career researchers through mentorship and collaborative projects, helping to secure the future of chiropractic research and education worldwide.

The WFC has long championed an evidence-based, people-centered, interprofessional and

Co-founders of the Fujitega Foundation, Dr Ricardo Fujikawa and Dr Arantxa Ortega

collaborative approach to chiropractic care - an ethos closely aligned with the Foundation?s mission and activities. ?From the beginning, we have felt the unwavering support of the World Federation of Chiropractic,? says Dr Fujikawa. ?We believe that meaningful growth is a mutual endeavor. That?s why we are proud to give back, not only through our scientific contributions, but also as a Corporate Sponsor of the WFC. This partnership reflects our shared vision of a stronger, unified, evidence-based chiropractic profession.?

The WFC is grateful for the support of the Fujitega Foundation and looks forward to a productive and inspiring partnership in the years ahead.

For more information about the Fujitega Foundation, visit fujitega.org.

41 WFC NEWS

Sidn ey Ru bin st ein deliver s in au gu r al pr of essor ial lect u r e On April 24th, 2025, Professor Sidney Rubinstein delivered his long-anticipated inaugural lecture at the Vrije Universiteit, Amsterdam - an important milestone marking his formal induction as professor.

This achievement follows a demanding two-year process involving multiple levels of institutional approval, culminating in a final review by a dedicated university commission.

This final stage required Professor Rubinstein to present his five-year research plan and respond to 45 minutes of intensive questioning - an experience he described as the most challenging part of the journey.

With his successful appointment, Professor Rubinstein now joins the esteemed academic ranks at one of the Netherlands?leading institutions.

The event was attended by colleagues, friends, and patients, alongside international leaders in chiropractic and health research. Among them were Professor Richard Brown, Dr Scott Haldeman, and Dr Katie Pohlman, whose presence underscored the global recognition of Professor Rubinstein's contributions to musculoskeletal (MSK) care.

L>R: Professor Richard Brown, Professor Sidney Rubinstein, Dr Katie Pohlman and Dr Scott Haldeman

A Spot ligh t on Pat ien t Saf et y Prior to the lecture, a two-hour mini-symposium was held, addressing the safety of cervical spinal manipulative therapy - an issue of continuing relevance and clinical importance.

Among the speakers were Dr Scott Haldeman and Professor Richard Brown, both of whom spoke passionately on the topic of patient safety, sharing insights from their extensive clinical and policy experience.

The session provided a timely and thoughtful context for the themes explored later in Professor Rubinstein?s address.

Balan ce in M ot ion : Tow ar ds Opt im izat ion of Car e Professor Rubinstein's inaugural lecture, titled ?Balance in Motion: Towards Optimization of Care?, laid out the vision and priorities of his new Chair: to improve the quality of care for individuals with musculoskeletal complaints, particularly those experiencing neck and low back pain.

Professor Sidney Rubinstein remains a clinician scientist, balancing his research with ongoing patient care

With nearly 20% of the global population affected

by MSK disorders - and the burden expected to

42 WFC NEWS

Sidn ey Ru bin st ein deliver s in au gu r al pr of essor ial lect u r e of work - including the landmark WARRIOR trial and emphasized the importance of frameworks like the Cochrane Collaboration and GRADE in synthesizing and evaluating scientific evidence.

A key theme was the need to better identify and understand sub-groups of patients who may respond differently to various conservative treatments. Sidney argued for a more personalized, data-driven approach to MSK care, while also stressing the need to train and support a new generation of researchers who can bridge the gap between clinical practice and academic inquiry.

Guests traveled from around the world to witness Professor Rubinstein's inaugural address

rise due to population aging - Professor Rubinstein posed a critical question: Where should we focus our time, resources, and research to deliver the most meaningful impact for patients and healthcare systems?

With his unique ability to integrate clinical insight with research excellence, Professor Rubinstein represents a powerful advocate for progress in musculoskeletal health. His appointment reflects not only personal achievement but also a broader commitment to advancing safe, effective, and patient-centered care.

The Chair is guided by two overarching goals: 1.

Enhancing MSK Care ? by assessing the (cost-)effectiveness of conservative treatments, identifying knowledge gaps through systematic reviews and meta-analyses, and determining which patient sub-groups benefit most from specific interventions.

2.

Strengthening Institutional Collaboration ? by deepening the partnership between the Netherlands Chiropractic Association and the Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam to advance the quality of care and further professionalize chiropractic practice in the region.

Bu ildin g Br idges Bet w een Resear ch an d Pr act ice Throughout his lecture, Sidney highlighted the evolution of clinical guidelines for back pain, emphasizing the critical role of research in driving evidence-based care. He drew from his own body

Professor Sidney Rubinstein celebrates with his family

43

44 WFC NEWS

DRC m em ber k eyn ot es at Bah r ain in t er n at ion al con f er en ce The WFC Disability and Rehabilitation Committee (DRC) is proud to highlight the recent international contribution of Dr Amy Bowzaylo, who delivered a keynote presentation at the Bahrain International Conference on Family Medicine & Primary Healthcare.

Her talk, ?The Chiropractor 's Role in Family Medicine: Enhancing Primary Healthcare Through Comprehensive Patient Care,? addressed the challenges and opportunities chiropractors face in Bahrain?s evolving, integrated healthcare system.

Dr Bowzaylo discussed the complexities of interdisciplinary collaboration with medical doctors, physiotherapists, and other health professionals in a setting where chiropractic is still emerging. Her presentation emphasized the importance of overcoming cultural perceptions, navigating regulatory frameworks, and aligning diverse healthcare approaches to build mutual respect and foster integration.

Key strategies shared included the use of evidence-based care to demonstrate chiropractic?s value, active participation in multidisciplinary planning, and alignment with national public health goals. Dr Bowzaylo also highlighted the role of open communication, cultural sensitivity, and continuous professional development in establishing credibility and enhancing patient outcomes in both primary healthcare and sports medicine contexts.

Beyond the lecture hall, Dr Bowzaylo engaged in panel discussions and one-on-one conversations with regional health leaders, helping to raise awareness of chiropractic?s relevance in modern, patient-centered care models. Her participation served as a platform to clarify misconceptions, answer questions about chiropractic education and scope of practice, and explore pathways for integration into Bahrain?s health system.

Her leadership and advocacy are helping pave the

Dr Amy Bowzaylo

way for broader chiropractic inclusion in Bahrain and the wider Middle East region.

The WFC Disability and Rehabilitation Committee gratefully acknowledges Dr Bowzaylo?s impactful work and thanks her for her continued contributions to the global advancement of chiropractic care.

Her presence at the conference exemplifies the DRC?s mission to promote the role of chiropractors in disability prevention, rehabilitation, and the integration of spine care into global health systems.

45 WFC NEWS

WFC Assem bly of M em ber s 2025: st r en gt h en in g gover n an ce, st r at egy, an d global en gagem en t The 2025 Annual Meeting of Members of the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC) was held on May 5?6 at the Tivoli Hotel and Conference Center in Copenhagen, Denmark.

This year ?s Assembly brought together delegates from across the globe, representing the WFC?s seven world regions, alongside observers from key stakeholders and organizations. With 128 votes represented from 43 countries, the Assembly was fully quorate and marked by a spirit of professionalism, purpose, and shared vision.

Leader sh ip Tr an sit ion s an d Ref lect ion s

challenges. Reports revealed persistent themes: the need for statutory recognition, protection of the chiropractic title, workforce development, and integration into national health systems.

Highlights included: Eu r ope: Denmark celebrated its academic and research excellence, while Norway successfully preserved reimbursement through robust advocacy. A new chiropractic education program was announced in Sweden, and Switzerland outlined succession planning to address looming retirements.

WFC President Dr Kendrah Da Silva opened proceedings with a call for global unity, reinforcing the WFC?s EPIC values: evidence-based, people-centered, interprofessional, and collaborative care. Her address underscored the WFC?s mission to promote equitable access to chiropractic around the world and emphasized the growing influence of the profession on the global health stage.

A landmark moment came as WFC Secretary-General Professor Richard Brown delivered his final address to the Assembly, closing an era of transformative leadership. He reflected on the WFC's achievements over his tenure, including strengthened relations with the World Health Organization, enhanced policy governance, and new strategic initiatives such as the International Chiropractic Education Alliance (ICEA) and the International Test of Competence.

Professor Brown introduced Secretary-General Designate Brad Beira, who was warmly welcomed by delegates.

Global Updat es an d St r at egic Pr ogr ess Throughout the two-day program, regional and country reports offered rich insight into the profession?s diverse status and evolving

Representatives of 43 countries from the WFC's seven world regions were in attendance at the Assembly

Af r ica: CASA in South Africa reported continued advancement, while Botswana, Namibia, and Morocco shared stories of patient-centered care and regulatory engagement. The African Chiropractic Federation reported its Vision 2030 strategy to drive professional development across the continent.

Asia: Malaysia advanced chiropractic recognition under the Traditional and Complementary Medicine Act, and the Philippines reported vibrant humanitarian activities. However, countries such as India, South Korea, and Taiwan

46 WFC NEWS

WFC Assem bly of M em ber s 2025: st r en gt h en in g gover n an ce, st r at egy, an d global en gagem en t highlighted ongoing struggles for regulation and protection of the chiropractic title.

Nor t h Am er ica: Canada and the USA reported substantial advocacy efforts, with Canada preparing to host the 2027 WFC Congress in Vancouver. Bermuda shared its journey toward professional regulation.

Lat in Am er ica: Brazil noted ongoing disputes with the physiotherapy profession over scope, while Guatemala and Chile reported progress in recognition. Peru and Mexico emphasized the need for regulatory clarity and title protection.

East er n M edit er r an ean: Cyprus celebrated its

Copenhagen City Hall hosted the Assembly reception

legislative success, while the UAE described a stable regulatory climate. Turkey and Sri Lanka highlighted the need for regulatory reform and education expansion.

Pacif ic: Reports from the national associations of Australia and New Zealand were presented, with both reporting positive progress and strong advocacy activity.

Key In it iat ives an d St r at egic Dir ect ion The Assembly featured significant updates from WFC committees and global partners: The Global Patient Safety Initiative, Public Health

47 WFC NEWS

WFC Assem bly of M em ber s 2025: st r en gt h en in g gover n an ce, st r at egy, an d global en gagem en t

Committee, and Research Committee reinforced chiropractic?s alignment with public health priorities and the evidence base for care.

Reports from WHO, World Rehabilitation Alliance, and Global Alliance for Musculoskeletal Health highlighted chiropractic?s role in global health collaborations.

Attendees were reminded of the WFC's Strategic Plan, charting five strategic goals to advance the profession and strengthen its global voice.

A particularly moving moment came with the 2025 John Sweaney Lecture, delivered by Dr Martin Camara of the Philippines. His inspiring reflections on equity, humanitarian service, and educational leadership were

warmly received and celebrated as a testament to the spirit of global chiropractic.

Gover n an ce, Policy an d Resolu t ion s Governance developments included the unanimous adoption of updated WFC policies on Equity, Diversity & Inclusion, Non-Interference, and International Course Protocols.

The Finance Report and Annual Report for 2024 were also approved.

Two resolutions were debated.

The first, reaffirming WFC independence in global health policy, was rejected. The second, calling for enforcement against member violations of WFC policy, passed with majority support - signaling a strong mandate for professional accountability.

Welcom e Recept ion Attendees were hosted by the Danish Chiropractors Association at Copenhagen's historic City Hall, where an official welcome was provided by the city and speeches were given by Michael Christensen, President of the Danish Chiropractors Association and WFC President, Kendrah da Silva.

Con clu sion The 2025 Assembly of Members concluded with tributes to outgoing Secretary-General Richard Brown and renewed commitment to collaboration and professional unity. The WFC?s global voice remains strong, principled, and future-focused, as it continues to elevate chiropractic as a vital contributor to health systems

48 WFC NEWS

2025 WFC Assem bly of M em ber s - Galler y

49 WFC NEWS

2025 WFC Assem bly of M em ber s - Galler y

50 WFC NEWS

2025 WFC Assem bly of M em ber s - Galler y

51 WFC NEWS

2025 WFC Assem bly of M em ber s - Galler y

52 WFC NEWS

2025 WFC Assem bly of M em ber s - Galler y

53 WFC NEWS

2025 WFC Assem bly of M em ber s - Galler y

54 WFC NEWS

2025 WFC Assem bly Recept ion - Copen h agen Cit y Hall

55 WFC NEWS

2025 WFC Assem bly Recept ion - Copen h agen Cit y Hall

56

57 WFC NEWS

2025 WFC Assem bly Recept ion - Copen h agen Cit y Hall

58 WFC NEWS

WFC con ven es f or u m of ch ir opr act ic CEOs in Copen h agen As part of the 18th WFC Biennial Congress in Copenhagen, the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC) hosted a landmark forum for Chief Executive Officers and senior leaders of chiropractic organizations worldwide. Chaired by Jakob Bjerre, CEO of the Danish Chiropractors?

Association, the session brought together over 30 participants from national associations, accreditation bodies, regulatory agencies, and regional federations.

The CEO Forum offered a unique opportunity for executives to discuss shared challenges and opportunities in association management.

Participants ranged from leaders of well-established, well-resourced associations to those representing smaller organizations navigating limited capacity and developmental constraints.

Topics included financial sustainability, strategic planning, member engagement, and regulatory advocacy. Leaders spoke candidly about issues such as burnout among volunteers, retention of

younger members, and the ongoing need to demonstrate organizational value.

Jakob Bjerre facilitated a practical, solutions-focused dialogue. Attendees shared best practices in governance, digital transformation, and building productive relationships with policymakers and external partners.

A strong spirit of solidarity emerged, with high-capacity associations offering mentorship to peers in emerging regions. All agreed on the value of continued dialogue and collaboration. ?The challenges we face may vary by region, but our goals are the same - to build strong, respected chiropractic organizations that serve our members and patients,? said Mr Bjerre.

The WFC intends to continue hosting CEO forums at future congresses and is exploring options for virtual engagement. By fostering global leadership and knowledge exchange, the WFC strengthens the infrastructure of the chiropractic profession worldwide.

Leaders from around the globe met in Copenhagen for a forum of the chiropractic profession's chief executive officers

59 WFC NEWS

Scien t if ic leader sh ip in act ion : WFC Resear ch Com m it t ee 2025 u pdat e The first half of 2025 has been an energetic and productive time for the WFC Research Committee (RC), which continues to play a central role in advancing the WFC's scientific mission. Led by Chair Professor Sidney?Rubinstein and Vice-Chair Dr?Katie?Pohlman, the committee comprises eleven distinguished researchers: -

Hon. Chair Emeritus Dr?Scott?Haldeman (USA) Professor Sidney?Rubinstein (Netherlands) Chair Dr Katie?Pohlman (USA) - Vice-Chair Dr Brian?Coleman (USA) Dr Anne?Jensen (Australia) Dr Imran?Khan?Niazi (New?Zealand) Dr Corrie?Myburgh (Denmark) Dr Keseri?Padayachy (South Africa) Dr Steven?Passmore (Canada) Dr Pernille?Popp (Denmark) Dr Stacie?Salsbury (USA) Professor Michael?Schneider (USA)

Following the departure of two esteemed colleagues, the WFC has issued a call for new applicants - an exciting opportunity for emerging researchers to join and contribute to global chiropractic science.

While the RC traditionally meets quarterly, preparations for the 18th WFC Biennial Congress in Copenhagen prompted an accelerated meeting schedule. Under the strategic coordination of Professor Rubinstein, Dr Pohlman, and former Secretary-General Professor Richard Brown, the committee fast-tracked planning to ensure robust scientific engagement.

A comprehensive review of the abstract submission and review process implemented specialist reviewers to enhance the quality and thematic alignment of Congress tracks - key insights to inform planning for the next Congress in Vancouver in 2027.

The scientific response in Copenhagen was outstanding: 186 abstracts were submitted, spanning advanced statistical methods, big data analytics, implementation science, patient-centered outcomes, and more. After a rigorous two-stage review, 72 were selected for oral presentation and 102 for poster display.

Beyond Congress prep, RC members continue to provide insightful research highlights to the Quarterly World Report, translating cutting-edge discoveries into practical knowledge for the broader profession.

As we look ahead, the RC remains focused promoting research, fostering global collaborations, and ensuring WFC scientific meetings reflects high standards of rigor and impact. With Vancouver 2027 on the horizon, the committee?s momentum promises exciting developments ahead.

Professor Sidney Rubinstein chairs the WFC Research Committee

60 WFC NEWS

WFC at t h e 78t h Wor ld Healt h Assem bly: advocacy, collabor at ion , an d ch ir opr act ic's expan din g r ole From May 23 to 27, 2025, the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC) participated at the 78th World Health Assembly (WHA78) in Geneva, Switzerland.

The WFC has been a non-state actor in official relations with WHO since 1997. Being a Non-State Actor (NSA) in official relations with the World Health Organization (WHO) provides the WFC with formal recognition, strategic access, and a platform for global influence.

This privileged status allows the WFC to attend key WHO meetings such as the World Health Assembly, contribute to technical discussions, engage in collaborative projects, and advocate for chiropractic's role within health systems.

L>R: Anthony Woolf, Michelle Fontana, Richard Brown, Michele Maiers and Brad Beira

It also strengthens the WFC?s visibility and credibility, facilitates high-level networking, and enables alignment with WHO?s global health priorities - particularly in areas like rehabilitation, ageing, noncommunicable diseases, and workforce development. The WFC?s involvement as a Non-State Actor (NSA) in official relations with WHO underscores its ongoing commitment to global musculoskeletal health.

As the principal decision-making forum of the World Health Organization (WHO), this year ?s Assembly carried the theme ?All for Health, Health for All,? focusing on strengthening health systems for future resilience.

Led by former Secretary-General Professor Richard Brown, the 2025 WFC delegation included Secretary-General Brad Beira, Committee on Official Relations with WHO member Dr Michele Maiers, Professor Anthony Woolf (Chair of the Global Musculoskeletal Alliance), and Dr Michelle Fontana from the World Congress of Chiropractic Students.

A core focus of WHO?s workplan is rehabilitation, Brad Beira at WHO headquarters in Geneva

61 WFC NEWS

WFC at t h e 78t h Wor ld Healt h Assem bly: advocacy, collabor at ion , an d ch ir opr act ic's expan din g r ole with delegates highlighting the need for greater integration of these services into health systems worldwide. During the Assembly, the WFC held strategic discussions with Dr Anthony Duttine, WHO?s Technical Lead for Rehabilitation, reaffirming its support for the Rehabilitation 2030 initiative and the WHO Rehabilitation Toolkit.

Recognition was given to Professor Pierre Côté for his work in establishing a WHO Collaborating Centre for Rehabilitation at Ontario Tech University - an achievement that strengthens chiropractic's presence in global rehabilitation research.

Despite significant internal pressures facing WHO due to a reduced operating budget, WFC maintained constructive engagement with multiple WHO departments. These included meetings with the Traditional, Complementary, and Integrative Medicine Unit, where progress on the forthcoming WHO Technical Report on Training in Chiropractic was discussed. The WFC reiterated its support for high educational standards and professional integrity in chiropractic education worldwide.

Brad Beira, Michele Maiers and Richard Brown at the United Nations Palais de Nations

Ageing was another prominent theme at WHA78.

In a meeting with Dr Yuka Sumi, Head of WHO?s Healthy Ageing unit, the WFC discussed the role of musculoskeletal care in supporting older adults, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.

The WFC highlighted its educational outreach, public awareness campaigns, and the development of a Malay-language summary of the WHO Low Back Pain Guideline to improve accessibility in Southeast Asia.

WHO's 'My health, my right campaign is a call to action for global solidarity on public health

Discussions with WHO?s Jim Campbell and Rania Kawar from the Health Workforce department also provided an opportunity to showcase chiropractic's growing contribution to the health

62 WFC NEWS

WFC at t h e 78t h Wor ld Healt h Assem bly: advocacy, collabor at ion , an d ch ir opr act ic's expan din g r ole workforce. Professor Brown reported new educational programs in Germany, Spain, Sweden, and the Philippines, alongside the launch of a Doctor of Chiropractic program at the University of Pittsburgh - marking a significant milestone for chiropractic education at a research-intensive public institution. Updates were also shared on the International Chiropractic Education Alliance (ICEA) and the International Test of Competence, developed to support regulation in emerging chiropractic jurisdictions.

Throughout the week, WFC strengthened alliances that deepened collaborative ties and reinforced

chiropractic?s role in advancing WHO?s global health goals. Notably, discussions are underway to co-host a future high-profile event to elevate awareness of musculoskeletal rehabilitation and promote the ?8+1? global indicators.

As WHO adapts to shifting priorities and resource limitations, the WFC remains a trusted voice for conservative, evidence-based care. The WFC?s continued presence at the World Health Assembly affirms its vital role in shaping policy, advocating for the profession, and contributing to global health solutions.

63 WFC NEWS

Sh ow casin g excellen ce: WFC visit s Can ada?s Fr en ch -speak in g ch ir opr act ic pr ogr am In June 2025, the Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR) hosted a distinguished visit from the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC), welcoming outgoing Secretary-General Professor Richard Brown and his successor, Professor Brad Beira. Marking Professor Brown?s final official engagement before stepping down at the end of June, the visit highlighted UQTR?s global standing in chiropractic education and celebrated a milestone leadership transition at the WFC. Addressing students in French, Professor Brown praised UQTR as a ?beacon of excellence in chiropractic education? and applauded its contribution to the development of the profession across Canada and internationally. ?You?ve made a great choice,? he told the students. ?You are entering the chiropractic profession at a time of global recognition, scientific maturity, and unprecedented opportunity. With the right values, a spirit of service, and a commitment to

excellence, you will not only succeed - you will thrive.?

He reflected on the WFC?s growing influence in global health, particularly its status as a Non-State Actor in official relations with the World Health Organization (WHO) and its leadership role within the WHO World Rehabilitation Alliance. He noted that chiropractic is now increasingly recognized, integrated, and valued within health systems around the world.

As he prepared to conclude his nearly ten-year tenure as Secretary-General, Professor Brown introduced Professor Brad Beira, who officially took office on July 1. ?Professor Beira is a visionary leader, an accomplished chiropractor, and a global thinker,? he said. ?I have every confidence that under his leadership, the WFC will continue to grow in influence and impact.?

Now in post, Professor Beira addressed the students with a message of optimism and

Students and faculty at UQTR with the WFC's Richard Brown and Brad Beira

64 WFC NEWS

Sh ow casin g excellen ce: WFC visit s Can ada?s Fr en ch -speak in g ch ir opr act ic pr ogr am purpose, sharing his background in clinical care, public health, and policy, and outlining his commitment to advancing global chiropractic integration, education, and utilization.

The visit included a tour of UQTR?s state-of-the-art research facilities, where Professor Isabelle Pagé presented her work with Force Sensing Table Technology (FSTT? ) - a leading-edge tool for chiropractic training.

The delegation also visited the university?s shared anatomy wet lab - a facility used by chiropractic and medical students - funded through generous donations from chiropractors across Québec.

L>R: Chantale Doucet, Danica Brousseau, Brad Beira, Richard Brown, Sebastien Robidoux and David Hayes

Hosted by Professor David Hayes, Dr Danica Brousseau, Dr Chantale Doucet, and Dr Sébastien Robidoux, the WFC leaders engaged in discussions on international collaboration and the role of the WFC?s International Chiropractic Education Alliance (ICEA). ?The excellence on display at UQTR is truly world-class,? said Professor Brown. ?As the only French-speaking chiropractic program outside France, UQTR stands as a proud testament to innovation, inclusion, and international leadership in chiropractic education.?

Brad Beira tries out the Force Sensing Table Technology

Professor Isabelle Pagé presented her work with Force Sensing Table Technology

The tour of UQTR included a look at the radiography training facility

65 WFC NEWS

Bu ildin g com pet en ce, dr ivin g ch an ge: DRC advan ces r eh abilit at ion agen da The WFC Disability and Rehabilitation Committee (DRC) continues to support the WFC?s strategic objective of strengthening the chiropractic profession?s role in disability management, rehabilitation, and health systems integration. In 2025, the DRC has made notable progress across three core portfolios: education, knowledge translation, and health systems and policy.

Edu cat ion Led by DRC member Brett Guist (Canada), the committee launched a research initiative examining how rehabilitation is taught in English-speaking chiropractic programs. Faculty leads will soon be invited to submit curricular materials and complete a survey targeting staff who teach rehabilitation. The results will form the basis for the first evidence-based recommendations to improve the consistency and quality of rehabilitation education across WFC member institutions.

Kn ow ledge t r an slat ion At the WFC Biennial Congress in Copenhagen, the DRC hosted a workshop titled ?Chiropractors as part of the rehabilitation revolution.? Presented

by Dr Jordan Gliedt (USA), Dr Afua Adjei-Kwayisi (Ghana), and Associate Professor Katie de Luca (Australia), the session introduced the WFC Rehabilitation Competency Framework and practical strategies. Attendees took part in a SWOT analysis to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in delivering global rehabilitation services. A follow-up survey will explore chiropractors?knowledge, attitudes, and skills related to rehabilitation.

Healt h syst em s an d policy The DRC is actively involved in the World Rehabilitation Alliance (WRA), a WHO initiative promoting rehabilitation as an essential health service. Within the WRA Research Workstream,

L>R Katie de Luca, Afua Adjei-Kwayisi and Jordan Gliedt presented a workshop at the WC Congress in Copenhagen

the committee has contributed to the development of multi-language infographics and digital tiles supporting health policy and systems research in rehabilitation. These materials are available in eight languages and can be accessed via the WFC. Associate Professor Katie de Luca has also contributed to the Basic Package of Interventions for Rehabilitation (BPIR), a WHO tool for primary care providers delivering low-cost, evidence-based rehabilitation using locally sourced equipment.

The DRC is preparing a white paper on integrating chiropractic into rehabilitation health systems coming soon.

Ref er en ce ¹ Côté, P., Sutton, D., Nicol, R., Brown R et al.

(2019). The development of a global chiropractic rehabilitation competency framework by the World Federation of Chiropractic. Chiropr Man Therap 27, 29.

66

67 WORLD NEWS

BELGIUM

New econ om ic code en h an ces pr of ession al r ecogn it ion f or Belgian ch ir opr act or s In a major step forward for the chiropractic profession in Belgium, the Belgian Chiropractors?

Union (UBC?BVC?BCU) has announced the successful assignment of a dedicated NACEBEL code (86.962) to chiropractic. Following two years of sustained advocacy, the creation of this unique identifier formally recognizes chiropractic as a distinct economic activity within the country?s national classification system.

The NACEBEL code is a vital administrative tool used by government registration offices to categorize self-employed professionals. Until now, chiropractors in Belgium had been grouped under general or miscellaneous health services, limiting visibility and creating barriers to regulation and public recognition. The introduction of this new code provides chiropractic with an independent administrative identity, marking a significant advance in the profession?s integration into national systems.

The development also carries important implications for VAT (value-added tax) exemption.

In accordance with federal legislation issued by the Belgian Ministry of Finance in December 2021, VAT exemption for chiropractic services is granted only to practitioners who hold ECCE- or CCEI-accredited qualifications, or who are recognized members of a professional body such as the UBC?BVC?BCU. However, in the absence of a dedicated classification code, formal checks were not consistently enforced. That will now change.

Registration desks are now required to verify the accreditation status of newly registered chiropractors, ensuring compliance with VAT legislation.

Chiropractors who fail to meet the criteria must

Bert Ameloot is the president of the Belgian Chiropractors' Union

apply VAT to services rendered, and patients receiving care from non-accredited providers will not be eligible for reimbursement through health insurance funds.

The introduction of the NACEBEL code strengthens public protection and professional accountability, bringing Belgium into closer alignment with international standards.

It supports the UBC?BVC?BCU?s long-standing goal of securing legal protection of the chiropractic title and enhances its capacity for future policy engagement.

This milestone reflects the growing maturity of the chiropractic profession in Belgium and the effectiveness of strategic collaboration with public authorities.

68

69 WORLD NEWS

CANADA

Fr om Den m ar k t o Can ada: r ef lect ion s on t h e WFC's 18t h Bien n ial Con gr ess an d w h at com es n ext Dr Ayla Azad, CEO, Can adian Ch ir opr act ic Associat ion

I have been a chiropractor for over 30 years, long enough to witness incredible changes in our profession. But at this year ?s World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC) Congress, I was reminded that no matter how far we have come, the most important part of our progress happens when we come together.

I felt so much pride seeing the breadth of Canadian contributions to the evolution of chiropractic and how our nation was so well represented throughout Congress. From the Canadian Chiropractic Research Foundation, the Canadian Chiropractic Protective Association, the provincial associations and educational institutions like Canadian Chiropractic Memorial College and Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières département de chiropratique, and of course, Canadian researchers.

Some of the most impactful moments came during keynote presentations by Dr Pierre Côté and Dr Scott Haldeman. Dr Haldeman?s reflections

Dr Scott Haldeman reflected on his six decades of service to the chiropractic profession.

Dr Ayla Azad, CEO, Canadian Chiropractic Association

on six decades of progress in chiropractic research brought a deep sense of perspective. I found myself thinking not just about how far we have come, but how much more we can achieve when we stay open, collaborative, and focused on the future. Their insights reminded me why I entered this profession in the first place and why I remain so committed to its continued evolution.

This year ?s Congress was filled with so many heartfelt moments that will stay with me. One that stands out was when Dr Mufudzi Chihambakwe, president of the African Chiropractic Federation presented me with a hand-carved vertebrae. A simple gesture, but one that carried powerful symbolism. This moment reminded me of the strength of community in action. We talk often about diversity, equity, and inclusion, but that

70 WORLD NEWS

Fr om Den m ar k t o Can ada: r ef lect ion s on t h e WFC's 18t h Bien n ial Con gr ess an d w h at com es n ext gesture showed what it looks like when we truly live those values.

There was also a deep sense of gratitude and reflection for so many of our chiropractic colleagues throughout the event. We honored Dr Richard Brown, WFC?s retiring Secretary-General, whose leadership has helped elevate our profession on the global stage. His contributions to chiropractic have been significant and lasting.

We also mourned the passing of Dr Greg Kawchuk, a brilliant Canadian researcher whose leadership pushed our profession forward. At home and abroad, Dr Kawchuk inspired us and challenged us for the better. His presence was missed, but his influence was felt.

Being at Congress reinforced how deeply this community supports one another. For many chiropractors, especially those in solo practice, professional life can feel isolating. But gatherings like this remind us that we are not working alone.

We are part of a global network of people who care deeply about advancing health through evidence-based, patient-centered care. That sense of belonging is real, and it is powerful.

At the CEO Forum, I connected with leaders from across the world including Jakob Bjerre, CEO of the

Dr Neerasha Ramsamy, Dr Ayla Azad and Dr Mufudzi Chihambakwe at the WFC Congress in Copenhagen

Danish Chiropractic Association doing impressive and meaningful work. These connections are not just professional; they are personal. They are the foundation of lasting collaboration, support, and friendship. You cannot replicate that virtually.

And now, we look ahead.

In 2027, Canada will host the WFC Congress in Vancouver, British Columbia. It is an incredible opportunity and an honor, not just to showcase Canadian leadership and innovation, but to bring our global community together once again, this time on home soil.

If you have never attended Congress before, I encourage you to plan for Vancouver 2027. And if you have, then you know what awaits. There will be leading-edge research, exceptional education, and world-class speakers. But what makes Congress unforgettable is the feeling you leave with. Inspired. Connected. And ready to return to your work with renewed purpose.

Together, we are shaping the future of chiropractic. I hope you will join us in Vancouver as we continue that journey ? side by side.

The WFC Congress sessions prompted discussion and debate

71 WORLD NEWS UNITED KINGDOM

UK r egu lat or lau n ch es em ot ion al su ppor t ser vice f or ch ir opr act or s in volved in f it n ess t o pr act ice cases The General Chiropractic Council (GCC), the statutory regulator for chiropractors in the United Kingdom, has launched a new Emotional Support Service aimed at assisting registrants undergoing Fitness to Practice (FtP) investigations.

Recognizing the significant emotional strain often associated with the FtP process, the GCC developed the initiative as part of its commitment to fostering well being and resilience within the profession.

The service is delivered by CiC, an independent organization specializing in emotional health and well-being. It is available to any GCC registrant involved in an FtP case, whether at the Investigating Committee (IC) or Professional Conduct Committee (PCC) stage.

The General Chiropractic Council is the statutory regulator for the profession in the United Kingdom

In addition to emotional support, counselors can offer practical guidance and signpost registrants to legal information or other relevant services.

Importantly, all support is confidential. CiC does not share any personal information with the GCC, ensuring that users of the service can speak freely and without concern.

The regulator only receives anonymized data about how often the service is accessed, maintaining transparency without compromising privacy.

To minimize conflicts and preserve neutrality, the GCC provides a separate emotional support pathway for patients through the charity Victim Support.

Chiropractors facing fitness to practice cases often experience significant emotional strain.

The service provides a range of confidential support options, including a 24/7 freephone careline offering immediate access to trained counselors. Where clinically appropriate, registrants may also be referred for up to six sessions of short-term counseling, either face-to-face or virtually.

This initiative highlights the GCC?s evolving focus on supporting registrants holistically - not only by upholding professional standards, but also by addressing the emotional challenges that can accompany regulatory processes.

By taking a proactive and compassionate approach, the GCC aims to protect the mental health of practitioners and promote professional sustainability. The model may serve as an example for other regulators seeking to balance accountability with practitioner well-being.

72 WORLD NEWS

AUSTRALIA

Nat ion al Spin al Healt h Week 2025 r aises aw ar en ess of ?Tech Neck ?epidem ic in Au st r alia National Spinal Health Week, held from 26 May to 1 June 2025, once again brought spinal health into national focus.

An initiative of the Australian Chiropractors Association (ACA), the annual campaign highlighted the growing impact of spinal health disorders and encouraged Australians to take proactive steps toward better neuromusculoskeletal wellbeing.

This year ?s campaign zeroed in on Tension Neck Syndrome, more commonly known as tech neck or text neck, a condition caused by poor posture and the prolonged use of digital devices such as smartphones, tablets, and computers.

Neck pain affects one in five Australians

With more than 34 million mobile phone connections across the country and 95% of Australians accessing the internet via smartphone, tech neck has become a modern epidemic.

of the cervical spine. The ACA?s messaging focused on prevention through awareness: maintaining good posture, setting up ergonomic workspaces, taking regular breaks, and doing simple stretching exercises.

Musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs), including tech neck, cost the Australian economy over $55 billion each year. Neck pain now affects 1 in 5 Australians, making public education on prevention more critical than ever.

National Spinal Health Week continues to be a key public health campaign, shining a light on preventable spinal conditions and supporting Australians in making healthier lifestyle choices.

The 2025 campaign offered guidance on identifying risk factors, improving posture, and incorporating preventative measures into daily routines.

Particularly at risk are students, office workers, and anyone using screens for extended periods, estimated to be 75.5% of Australians aged 16?64.

Incorrect ergonomic setups and non-neutral posture habits, especially when using mobile devices or working on laptops, are key contributors to the condition.

If left unresolved, tech neck can result in chronic pain in the neck, shoulders, and upper back, headaches, and even changes to the natural curve

Neck issues are frequently encountered by those using display screen equipment.

73 WORLD NEWS

UNITED STATES

Lisa Goodm an r eceives WCWC 2025 Wom en in Leader sh ip aw ar d

Dr Lisa Goodman (second left) received 2025 Women in Leadership award from Dr Clare Morgan (far left)

Dr Lisa Goodman was honored with the ?2025 Women in Leadership? Award by the World Congress of Women Chiropractors (WCWC) at Parker Seminars Las Vegas. The award, presented before a global audience of chiropractic professionals, celebrated Dr Goodman?s outstanding leadership, innovation, and service to the chiropractic profession.

A respected pediatric and sports chiropractor based in Denver, Colorado, Dr Goodman is known for her progressive clinical work, commitment to patient-centered

care, and mentorship of the next generation of chiropractors. She is also the author of THE MANUAL for the Chiropractic Entrepreneur, a resource that has guided many practitioners in building successful, principled practices.

work embodies these values.

Her clinical innovations and focus on evidence-informed care have advanced outcomes in pediatric and sports chiropractic, while her mentorship and public engagement continue to inspire colleagues and students alike.

The WCWC, established in 1982, supports chiropractors through education, scholarships, and leadership development. Its annual Women in Leadership Award recognizes those who exemplify professional excellence, empower others, and positively influence the direction of the profession. Dr Goodman?s

Parker University joined WCWC in celebrating Dr Goodman?s achievement, acknowledging her as a role model in chiropractic leadership.

For more information about the WCWC, visit wcwchiropractors.org. To learn more about Dr Goodman, visit drlisagoodman.com.

74 WORLD NEWS

UNITED KINGDOM

New BCA r epor t : r ecogn izin g ch ir opr act or s in t h e NHS cou ld save UK £1.5bn The British Chiropractic Association (BCA) has released a groundbreaking Health Economics Report, developed in partnership with the York Health Economics Consortium (YHEC), which outlines the significant economic and clinical advantages of integrating chiropractors into the United Kingdom's National Health Service (NHS).

The findings reveal that chiropractic integration could help reduce NHS waiting lists by over 100,000 appointments annually and boost national productivity by £400 million (approximately $510 million USD) each year. Over the course of this Parliament, the total economic benefit is projected to exceed £1.5 billion The BCA organized an event at the Houses of Parliament, which brought together over 30 Members of Parliament and peers

(approximately $1.9 billion USD).

Musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions remain one of the UK?s leading causes of disability, accounting for roughly 30 million lost working days per year.

With more than a quarter of all workforce sickness absences linked to MSK issues, the economic burden on the NHS and national productivity is immense. Current NHS waiting times for MSK-related treatments average 11 weeks, with delays extending to 24 weeks in some areas, exacerbating the crisis by delaying recovery and prolonging work absences.

The new report underscores the potential of the chiropractic profession to address these issues.

The BCA report was produced in association with the York Health Economics Consortium

Chiropractors in the UK are regulated, degree-qualified professionals working in communities nationwide. Despite their qualifications, chiropractors are not currently recognized as Allied Health Professionals (AHPs), a designation that includes physiotherapists and

75 WORLD NEWS

New BCA r epor t : r ecogn izin g ch ir opr act or s in t h e NHS cou ld save UK £1.5bn osteopaths and allows for inclusion in NHS referral pathways. ?This landmark report not only lays bare the extent of the crisis we currently face in primary care but shows just how vital chiropractic is as a ready-to-go resource embedded in communities.

Recognizing the sector ?s contribution would help thousands of NHS patients off waiting lists, grant the NHS the additional capacity it so desperately needs, and save the UK economy over £1.5 billion in lost working hours over this Parliament,? said BCA President Dr Tim Button.

Chiropractors in the UK undergo a four-year master ?s degree program and are regulated by the General Chiropractic Council (GCC), a statutory body accountable to Parliament.

Despite their training and regulation, they remain excluded from formal NHS referral mechanisms, restricting patient access and compounding

Significant waiting lists impacts on sickness absence and delayed recovery

backlogs.

The YHEC analysis evaluated whether chiropractors could deliver care equivalent to current NHS-recognized MSK professionals and whether this integration would yield economic benefits. The answer was clear. ?We found no evidence that chiropractors are less effective than other MSK professionals currently recognized by the NHS,? said Nick Hex, Associate Director at YHEC. ?Our findings suggest chiropractors could help reduce NHS pressure by more than 100,000 appointments a year, while also aligning with the Government?s goal of moving more care into the community.?

Members of the BCA team lobbying government at the UK Houses of Parliament

According to the study, tapping into the existing chiropractic workforce could provide an additional

76 WORLD NEWS

New BCA r epor t : r ecogn izin g ch ir opr act or s in t h e NHS cou ld save UK £1.5bn 114,424 MSK appointments annually. This increased capacity would enable quicker recovery, shorter waiting times, and reduced productivity losses, resulting in potential annual economic gains of £400 million (approximately $510 million USD).

Cumulatively, over the parliamentary term, this could surpass £1.5 billion (approximately $1.9 billion USD).

In light of ongoing NHS pressures, including the Government?s commitment to eliminating year-long waiting times and the post-pandemic shift toward remote work, the need for scalable, community-based solutions is urgent.

The BCA contends that chiropractors offer a practical, immediately available solution. ?GP surgeries are needlessly overrun with MSK appointments,? added Dr Button. ?Our community is ready to help beat the backlogs and get patients back to health and back to work.

We?re calling on the Government to formally recognize chiropractors as Allied Health Professionals and partner with us to deliver real, immediate change.?

The BCA is now calling on UK policymakers to take decisive action. By officially recognizing chiropractors as Allied Health Professionals, the NHS could unlock immediate access to thousands of trained practitioners without requiring significant system overhauls or new infrastructure investments.

The Health Economics Report and its supporting methodology are publicly available, offering a transparent and data-driven foundation for future policy advocacy.

To support awareness and engagement, the BCA has developed a communications toolkit aimed at practitioners and stakeholders throughout the healthcare system.

With compelling data, the BCA is calling on policymakers to take action

This new evidence positions chiropractic as a key player in addressing the UK?s healthcare challenges and underscores the importance of better integrating chiropractic into mainstream healthcare systems globally.

The BCA?s advocacy continues to highlight how chiropractic can deliver timely, cost-effective care that benefits patients, providers, and health systems alike.

To read the full report, click here.

77

78 WORLD NEWS

SOUTH AFRICA

Ver t ebr o u n veiled: CASA lau n ch es of f icial m ascot f or spin al h ealt h aw ar en ess

South African chiropractic students with the new CASA mascot, Vertebro

In a dynamic step to enhance public engagement and raise awareness of spinal health across South Africa, the Chiropractic Association of South Africa (CASA) has officially launched its new mascot, Vertebro.

Created to serve as the friendly and accessible face of chiropractic in South Africa, Vertebro is designed to appeal to all age groups through engaging, educational interactions.

With a focus on core messages such as posture, movement, hydration, ergonomics, and spinal hygiene, Vertebro helps

translate chiropractic principles into relatable and actionable health information for the public.

As CASA?s official ambassador for spinal health education, Vertebro brings a vibrant visual identity to the association?s outreach activities. His engaging presence enhances CASA?s mission to promote evidence-informed, patient-centered care, while offering a creative platform for connecting with children, families, and communities nationwide.

Vertebro is set to feature prominently in World Spine Day

activities and other national spinal health initiatives.

CASA envisions his involvement as a strategic asset in amplifying the visibility of chiropractic within South Africa?s broader healthcare landscape. He will also support student and community events, partnering with local stakeholders to foster greater understanding of spinal care.

Through Vertebro, CASA is reinforcing its commitment to community health education and creating a movement where spinal well-being is prioritized, celebrated, and understood by all.

79 WORLD NEWS

WORLD SPINE CARE

Wor ld Spin e Car e f eat u r es pr om in en t ly in Copen h agen at WFC Con gr ess World Spine Care (WSC) made a strong impact at the World Federation of Chiropractic?s 18th Biennial Congress in Copenhagen, held from May 7?10, 2025. WSC clinicians, researchers, and volunteers were active throughout the event, contributing to plenary sessions, research presentations, panel discussions, and workshops.

WSC President Dr Scott Haldeman delivered a powerful keynote address that received a standing ovation. He reflected on the evolution of the chiropractic profession, emphasizing milestones in evidence-based musculoskeletal (MSK) care and the growing influence of chiropractic researchers on the global stage. He noted the profession?s role in organizations such as WHO, the World Rehabilitation Alliance, and SPINE20, and forecasted a future involving multidisciplinary care teams, AI-driven research, and new studies exploring the broader impact of spinal care on non-MSK conditions.

Dr Steven Passmore presented findings from an implementation study at the WSC clinic in Cross Lake, Manitoba, Canada. His poster outlined baseline patient characteristics and service utilization. The project involves collaboration with several researchers and community leaders.

Dr Jennifer Ward shared results from a recent publication exploring the prevalence and burden of MSK disorders among the Pimicikamak people in northern Manitoba. The survey highlighted the high prevalence of spine-related symptoms and their impact on daily life, with many respondents

Drs. Mufudzi Chihambakwe (Clinic Coordinator, Botswana), Afua Adjei-Kwayisi (Clinic Supervisor, Ghana), and Patricia Tavares (Director of Clinics, World Spine Care)

indicating interest in allied health care services.

WSC board member Dr Deborah Kopansky-Giles delivered a keynote on integrating chiropractic into primary care teams, drawing on her extensive international experience. Dr Rebecca Nekstad presented her qualitative research exploring WSC chiropractic volunteers?experiences delivering MSK care in Botswana, while Dr Mufudzi Chihambakwe, WSC clinic coordinator in Botswana, introduced Tshidilo, a compelling film supporting spine care awareness in the region.

Dr Katie De Luca presented findings from a study analyzing cognitive impairment and spinal pain among older adults in the U.S., using data from national health surveys. The paper, which earned honorable mention at the Congress through the NCMIC Research Awards, forms the basis for a future longitudinal study. Collaborators included Dr Haiou Yang, Dr Scott Haldeman, Dr Eric Hurwitz, Dr Patricia Tavares, Dr Bart Green, and Hannah Dale.

80

81 WORLD NEWS

Wor ld Spin e Car e f eat u r es pr om in en t ly in Copen h agen at WFC Con gr ess Workshops were also an integral part of WSC?s Congress presence. A session titled Chiropractors as Part of the Rehabilitation Revolution featured Dr Afua Adjei-Kwayisi, past clinic supervisor in Accra, Ghana, and Dr De Luca, who explored how chiropractic can support global rehabilitation

goals.

The WSC delegation?s contributions underscored the organization?s commitment to global health equity, clinical innovation, and research excellence in spine care. Their work continues to support underserved communities and

strengthen the role of chiropractic in addressing the global burden of MSK disorders.

World Spine Care extends its gratitude to Congress organizers and to WFC Secretary-General Professor Richard Brown, who also serves as WSC Vice-President and Board

UNITED STATES

Am er ican Ch ir opr act ic Associat ion r epor t s pr ogr ess on M edicar e m oder n izat ion legislat ion The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) continues to make significant strides in its efforts to expand Medicare coverage for chiropractic patients through the Chiropractic Medicare Coverage Modernization Act, a bipartisan bill introduced in the 119th U.S. Congress.

The proposed legislation seeks to allow Medicare beneficiaries access to the full range of services provided by chiropractors under their state licensure extending beyond the current limited reimbursement for spinal manipulation.

As of June 2025, the bill has gained 91 cosponsors in the U.S. House of Representatives and 12 in the U.S. Senate, reflecting growing support from lawmakers on both sides of the political spectrum. The ACA credits this progress to the active engagement of its members, who have participated in more than 250 direct meetings with members of Congress and their staff on Capitol Hill.

These advocacy efforts have helped raise awareness of the limitations currently faced by Medicare patients seeking chiropractic care and the importance of updating the system to reflect modern, evidence-informed practice. Under

current law, chiropractors are the only physician-level providers whose full scope of services is not recognized by Medicare, even when those services are covered when provided by other health professionals.

The ACA argues that this legislative change would not only improve patient access to conservative, non-drug care for musculoskeletal conditions but also help alleviate the burden on the broader healthcare system by reducing reliance on more costly interventions such as prescription medications, imaging, and surgery.

The Chiropractic Medicare Coverage Modernization Act represents a key policy priority for the ACA and its national membership.

The association encourages ongoing support and grassroots advocacy to ensure the bill continues to move forward. For further details and updates, visit: www.acatoday.org/advocacy/medicare.

82 WORLD NEWS

UNITED STATES

ICA elect s Joe Bet z as n ew pr esiden t

Dr Joe Betz is the new president of the International Chiropractors' Association

Dr Joseph Betz has been elected President of the International Chiropractors Association (ICA), following elections held during the ICA?s 99th Annual Convention in Clearwater, Florida, April 3 - 5, 2025.

He succeeds Dr Selina Sigafoose-Jackson, who completed two

impactful terms from 2021 to 2025.

Dr Betz previously served as ICA Vice President and brings to the role over 15 years of clinical and organizational leadership.

Based in Boise, Idaho, he is the founder of Modern Chiropractic Center, where he

specializes in structural rehabilitation and corrective care. A graduate of the University of Pittsburgh and Life University, Dr Betz is also a Certified Chiropractic BioPhysics® (CBP®) practitioner and instructor.

Beyond clinical practice, Dr Betz is

widely recognized for his contributions to chiropractic research and education. He has authored more than a dozen peer-reviewed studies and co-authored sections of key CBP textbooks, particularly in the area of scoliosis correction.

He serves on several nonprofit boards dedicated to advancing

83 WORLD NEWS

ICA elect s Joe Bet z as n ew pr esiden t chiropractic science and best practices. ?I am truly honored and beyond excited for the opportunity to serve as the next president of the ICA,? said Dr Betz. ?I am passionate about leading this incredible organization into a future grounded in unity, integrity, and the advancement of chiropractic worldwide. ?As the new ICA President, I see tremendous opportunity in this changing healthcare landscape,

where more people are seeking natural, drug-free solutions for their health.

"With focus and hard work, we will see public acceptance of chiropractic and an opportunity to take its rightful place at the forefront of a healthier, more proactive model of healthcare.?

Dr Betz?s presidency marks a new chapter in ICA history, one rooted in clinical expertise, scientific advancement, and principled leadership.

UNITED STATES

ACA an n ou n ces 2025 t h em e f or Nat ion al Ch ir opr act ic Healt h M on t h The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) will mark National Chiropractic Health Month (NCHM) 2025 this October with the theme ?Get Started with Chiropractic.?

The campaign will emphasize the benefits of choosing chiropractic care as a non-drug approach to managing musculoskeletal (MSK) pain.

Conditions such as back, neck and joint pain, as well as tension-type headaches, are among the most common MSK complaints. Starting with chiropractic care rather than with prescription-based treatments may help reduce reliance on medications, including opioids.

Research has shown that patients who begin care with a chiropractor for back pain are significantly less likely to require opioid prescriptions later.

Although opioid prescriptions have declined in the United States, opioid misuse remains a persistent public health challenge. Clinical guidelines from the American College of Physicians, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the World Health Organization all recommend non-drug treatments as a first-line approach to MSK conditions. ?Patients want safe, effective, non-drug options to manage their pain,? said ACA President

Dr. Marc Nynas. ?Doctors of chiropractic are well positioned to deliver this care, while also promoting health, movement and injury prevention.?

A campaign toolkit with resources and outreach ideas will be available at www.acatoday.org/NCHM. The public can learn more about chiropractic at handsdownbetter.org.

NCHM is held each October to raise awareness of the profession?s patient-centered, drug-free approach to health and wellness, and its vital role in addressing MSK conditions through evidence-based care.

84 WORLD NEWS

INTERNATIONAL CHIROPRACTIC REGULATORY SOCIETY

ICRS f or u m h igh ligh t s cyber secu r it y pr epar edn ess The International Chiropractic Regulatory Society (ICRS) Forum recently convened in Copenhagen, Denmark, alongside the WFC Biennial Congress.

A key highlight was a presentation on cybersecurity, delivered by Glenys Sharman, General Manager and Registrar of the New Zealand Chiropractic Board.

Reflecting on a nationwide cyber attack that shut down government websites just before Christmas several years ago, Ms Sharman opened with a stark scenario: ?Imagine receiving a call from your IT provider saying, ?All systems are down due to a cyberattack.??

She outlined the immediate questions that arise: -

How are practitioners affected?

What is the financial and legal impact on the board?

Can staff continue working?

What data may have been leaked?

What communications must be made - and when?

Ms Sharman emphasized the importance of being prepared and urged all boards and associations to develop a cyber response plan. This should include a clearly defined response team, step-by-step procedures, pre-drafted communication templates, and an understanding of legal obligations and reporting requirements.

ICRS Executive Director, Donna Liewer Cohen, presents at the 2025 WFC Assembly of Members

A critical early decision is whether to pay the ransom, which may depend on government policy, the extent of data loss, and the ability to restore systems from backups. Ms Sharman stressed the value of offsite data storage and being fully informed about disclosure laws. ?Communications must be clear, honest, and avoid panic,? she advised. Early contact with stakeholders, reassuring them about the status of their data, is vital.

Key lessons from her experience: -

Maintain secure, offsite backups Regularly update cybersecurity protocols Conduct phishing tests Practice your response plan

?Preparation is the key to effective cybersecurity incident management,? Ms Sharman concluded.

For more on chiropractic regulation or to view ICRS Copenhagen Forum presentations, visit www.chiroregulation.org.

85 WORLD NEWS INTERNATIONAL FEDERATION OF SPORTS CHIROPRACTIC (FICS)

FICS expan ds global f oot pr in t at CSIT gam es

caption

FICS chiropractors at the CSIT games in Loutracki, Greece

The International Federation of Sports Chiropractic (FICS) continues to create global opportunities for sports chiropractors, advancing development and enhancing athlete care at international events.

From June 3?8, 2025, a 25-member FICS delegation from 10 countries volunteered at the CSIT Games in Loutraki, Greece. With over 4,000 athletes, the event offered a platform for clinical practice, mentorship, and collaboration. Over five days, FICS chiropractors delivered more than 1,100 treatments,

receiving strong feedback. The experience promoted exchange and reinforced FICS? commitment to care and leadership. FICS looks forward to future participation.

FICS was also active at the WFC Congress in Copenhagen, May 8?10. Board member Dr Catherine Quinn introduced the FICS Parasport Project, highlighting its focus on inclusivity. Attendees showed interest, and hands-on demonstrations were well received. The Congress enabled valuable engagement with chiropractic leaders.

In research, FICS participated in the International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Sports Science Congress, May 15?17 in Doha, Qatar. Secretary-General Dr Jérémy Labrecque presented findings from the 2022 World Games on injury surveillance in multisport environments. The abstract was one of 42 peer-reviewed submissions at Aspetar Health Clinic. The ITTF expressed interest in future collaboration.

FICS remains committed to growing the global role of sports chiropractors through engagement and collaboration.

86 WORLD NEWS KUWAIT

Tr ailblazer Isr a M an a becom es Ku w ait 's f ir st f em ale ch ir opr act or In a landmark moment for chiropractic in the WFC?s Eastern Mediterranean region, Dr Isra Mana has become Kuwait?s first female chiropractor.

A 2022 graduate of Northeast College of Health Sciences (NECHS), Dr Mana has returned to her home country delivering much needed chiropractic care to a population of nearly five million and blazing a trail for the profession in a region where chiropractic is still gaining recognition. ?I?m the first one here, so I had to start the process myself,? said Dr Mana, referencing Kuwait?s lack of an independent chiropractic licensure system. ?In the Middle East, the countries don?t have their own chiropractic examinations, so you need to have certification from the U.S. or Canada.? Dr Mana obtained Canadian Board Certification prior to commencing practice in Kuwait.

The Kuwaiti native did her undergraduate work at Carleton University in Ottawa. While there, she was active in a number of organizations including the Science Student Success Center and the Student Association. She was also a member of the track and field and soccer teams. She spent her junior year studying abroad at the University of Leeds, UK. At NECHS, she was active in professional student groups, including the International Chiropractic Pediatric Association.

She completed clinical rotations at the Depew Health Center and the University of Buffalo, gaining hands-on experience in diversified, flexion-distraction, drop table, and instrument-assisted techniques, as well as adjunctive therapies such as laser, ultrasound, and Kinesiotaping. ?The program at Northeast helped me grow both personally and professionally,? said Dr Mana. ?We treated patients using a variety of chiropractic

Dr Isra Mana is the first female Kuwaiti chiropractor

techniques, including diversified manipulations, flexion-distraction therapy, drop table technique and instrument-assisted soft tissue work.?

Pediatrics is a particular area of focus for Dr Mana.

She has volunteered for several years at the Al Kharafi Activity Center for Kids With Special Needs and aims to further expand pediatric chiropractic care in Kuwait.

Although new to practice, Dr Mana?s impact has been immediate. Her clinic has received over 70 five-star Google reviews. One patient wrote: ?Dr. Isra?s expertise and miracle hands have provided me with immense relief. I truly appreciate being on her schedule for bi-weekly adjustments.?

Dr Mana?s work not only signals the growing role of women in chiropractic, but also a broader movement toward expanding access, recognition, and culturally competent care in the Eastern Mediterranean region.

87 WORLD NEWS UNITED STATES

Now available: Nat ion al Boar d of Ch ir opr act ic Exam in er s Pr act ice An alysis of Ch ir opr act ic 2025 The Practice Analysis of Chiropractic 2025 has just been published and contains the current activities and practices of chiropractors in the United States.

Under the superb guidance and leadership of Dr. Igor Himelfarb, Director of Psychometrics and Research, National Board of Chiropractic Examiners, the report summarizes responses from chiropractic practitioners in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and other U.S. territories.

In addition, a wide variety of stakeholders from the chiropractic profession provided input into the design of the study.

A Practice Analysis serves as a critical step in the

development of valid and reliable assessment tools for licensure and certification for chiropractors in the US. This analysis is also essential to ensure the validity of NBCE?s licensure exams by identifying the core competencies, responsibilities, and skills required for professional chiropractic practice.

This 2025 report is the seventh in a series, which is conducted by the NBCE approximately every five years to stay current with chiropractic practice.

Professor Richard Brown responded to the 2025 Practice Analysis by noting "This is an impressive and timely body of work that not only provides critical insights into the current landscape of chiropractic practice in the United States, but also underscores the growing contributions of the profession to accessible, evidence-informed, and patient-centered care.

"It is particularly noteworthy how the report emphasizes the role of chiropractors in serving diverse and underserved populations, integrating within multidisciplinary teams, and contributing meaningfully to the broader public health ecosystem."

Dr Isra Mana is the first female Kuwaiti chiropractor

The Practice Analysis of Chiropractic 2025 provides legislators, insurance companies, educators, and the general public with an overview of the chiropractic field and its effectiveness as a healthcare profession.

88 WORLD NEWS UNITED STATES

Par ker Un iver sit y an d PPI an n ou n ce spor t s per f or m an ce par t n er sh ip w it h Texom a FC Parker University and the Parker Performance Institute (PPI) have announced an exciting new partnership with Texoma Football Club (FC), becoming the official Sports Performance Partners and Back-of-Kit Sponsors for the team?s debut 2025 season.

Texoma FC, a newly established professional soccer franchise based in Sherman, Texas, will feature Parker University and PPI branding on the back of all official kits, including home, away, and goalkeeper jerseys. More significantly, the collaboration goes beyond sponsorship: PPI will deliver advanced sports performance services to the team, ensuring players benefit from cutting-edge recovery, functional rehabilitation, and peak performance therapies.

The partnership highlights a shared mission of optimizing human potential through evidence-based care, education, and innovation.

Parker University?s Chief Marketing Officer, Chris Williams, commented, "We are ecstatic about the

Texoma is a newly formed soccer franchise in the U.S.

partnership with Texoma FC because so much of our two organizations?missions and values align.

We want to teach and train the best so they succeed in the world - and on the pitch."

Texoma FC President Ben Watson echoed this sentiment: "This partnership enhances both organizations?missions to prepare future professionals while supporting the growth of elite soccer in our region."

PPI?s unique interdisciplinary model combines medical neurology, chiropractic care, massage therapy, and nutrition to offer a truly integrative approach to sports performance. Based at The Star in Frisco, Texas, PPI serves athletes across all levels of competition, with a focus on accelerated recovery and functional optimization.

Through this collaboration, Parker University and PPI aim to educate the wider community about the importance of injury prevention, athlete wellness, and evidence-informed healthcare.

The Texoma FC inaugural season will be played at Historic Bearcat Stadium, a 6,500-seat venue in downtown Sherman, Texas. Fans and supporters can follow the team?s progress and updates through social media and at texomafc.com.

89 WORLD NEWS

UNITED STATES

David Sieber t appoin t ed CEO of NCM IC NCMIC has announced the appointment of David Siebert as its new Chief Executive Officer, marking a new chapter in the company?s leadership. Mr Siebert succeeds Mike McCoy, who retires after eight years of service as CEO and a career that helped guide NCMIC through a period of strategic expansion.

Mr Siebert joined NCMIC in 1995 as a Claims Representative and has since held a series of progressively senior leadership roles - including Litigation Consultant, Senior Director, Assistant Vice President, and Senior Vice President. In 2020,

he was appointed President of NCMIC Insurance Company, overseeing historic growth in policyholder numbers and spearheading key strategic initiatives. His experience spans nearly three decades of service and leadership within the organization.

A graduate of the University of Missouri-Kansas City with a degree in Business Administration, Mr Siebert brings a values-driven approach to his new role. He lives in Urbandale, Iowa, with his family and is actively involved in civic and charitable organizations - currently serving as president-elect of the Board of Directors for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Iowa. ?I?m honored and energized to step into this role and lead NCMIC forward,? said Mr Siebert. ?Our strength lies in the people who live out our promise - ?We Take Care of Our Own?- each day.

Our doctors are at the heart of everything we do, and I?m excited to grow together in service of our mission.?

Dr Wayne Wolfson, President of NCMIC, welcomed Mr Siebert?s appointment: ?David?s track record of leadership and deep understanding of our mission will guide NCMIC through the next phase of growth, while continuing to serve our policyholders, team members, and communities.?

Founded in 1946 by a group of doctors of chiropractic, NCMIC has grown into the largest provider of malpractice insurance for chiropractors in the United States. Today, it also serves naturopathic doctors, dentists, and other health professionals through its Professional Solutions division. .

David Siebert has been named as the new CEO of NCMIC Inc.

With nearly 80 years of industry leadership, NCMIC remains committed to its founding purpose - supporting healthcare professionals with integrity, service, and financial protection. For more information, visit ncmic.com.

90 WORLD NEWS

CANADA

Next gen er at ion voices: st u den t in sigh t s f r om t h e WFC Bien n ial Con gr ess For Louisa Esangbedo, a Canadian chiropractic student, the journey into the profession began with what she affectionately calls ?love at first crack.? After receiving her first chiropractic treatment, something clicked both physically and emotionally. What started as a personal health experience quickly evolved into a professional calling. As she began shadowing chiropractors and learning more about the field, Louisa realized she had found a path that felt not only right but deeply fulfilling.

A student at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC), Louisa is already making waves in the profession. She currently serves as Past Chair of the Student Canadian Chiropractic Association (SCCA) National and is also President of both the SCCA-CMCC chapter and the CMCC Students?

Council for 2024/2025. In all these roles, Louisa works to bring students together, amplify their voices, and build stronger connections across the country. Her commitment to advancing chiropractic education and her enthusiasm for community-building have made her a respected leader among her peers and a promising voice in the profession?s next generation.

With a long-standing interest in health and human anatomy, what drew her in most was chiropractic?s hands-on, patient-focused nature. ?I liked the idea of working closely with people, really figuring out the root cause of what they?re experiencing and being part of their journey back to doing the things they love,? she explains. That sense of connection, of helping others move and live better, continues to inspire her every day.

Looking ahead to life after graduation, she sees herself building a career in family practice. What appeals most is the opportunity to care for people across all stages of life, from energetic children to

CMCC student Louisa Esangbedo at the WFC Congress in Copenhagen

busy adults to older adults working to stay mobile and independent. What resonates most is the opportunity to build long-term relationships and be a steady presence in her patients?lives. ?It?s about supporting people through whatever phase of life they?re in,? she says. ?And creating a space where they feel seen, heard, and empowered.?

That patient-centered philosophy was only deepened by her recent experience at the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC) Congress in Copenhagen, Denmark. ?It was such an inspiring experience,? she says. ?There was so much energy, and you could really

91 WORLD NEWS

Next gen er at ion voices: st u den t in sigh t s f r om t h e WFC Bien n ial Con gr ess ?Everyone was open to learning and genuinely trying to figure out how to incorporate DEI into the profession in a meaningful way.?

The experience left her feeling hopeful and committed to being part of that change.

Reflecting on her time at the Congress, she feels more connected than ever to the broader chiropractic community.

Congress opened her eyes to the impact chiropractors can have beyond their individual clinics through research, advocacy, collaboration, and leadership. ?It made me realize we?re part of something much bigger than ourselves,? Louisa says. ?There?s a real opportunity to shape the future of chiropractic in ways that are innovative, inclusive, and global in scope.? caption

Louisa Esangbedo serves as Past Chair of the Student Canadian Chiropractic Association

feel how passionate people are about the future of chiropractic.?

Meeting students and professionals from around the world reminded her that chiropractic is not only a growing field ? it?s a deeply diverse and globally connected one.

One moment that stood out in

particular was a breakout session on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). For her, it was both powerful and affirming. ?It was so encouraging to see people from so many different backgrounds come together to talk about making chiropractic more inclusive and accessible,? she shares.

With Canada preparing to host the next WFC Congress, the moment feels especially significant.

It?s a chance to welcome the international chiropractic community and continue building momentum for a future that?s as collaborative as it is compassionate.

As Louisa prepares to step into her professional life, she carries with her a vision of a profession that?s evolving, united, and ready to meet the world?s changing needs, one patient, one conversation, and one treatment at a time.

92

93 WORLD NEWS

CANADA

CCA deepen s n at ion al in f lu en ce t h r ou gh leader sh ip r ole in h ealt h act ion coalit ion The Canadian Chiropractic Association (CCA) continues to play a vital role in national health advocacy through its longstanding involvement with HEAL (Organizations for Health Action), a coalition of 40 national health organizations committed to improving health care for all Canadians.

As an active member for more than 20 years, the CCA has strengthened its influence in federal health policy, with its CEO, Dr Ayla Azad, currently serving as HEAL?s co-chair.

HEAL brings together professional associations of regulated healthcare providers and health charities that deliver a wide spectrum of services across the country.

The coalition meets quarterly in Ottawa to collaborate with policymakers, Parliamentarians, and government agencies, addressing systemic

to positioning chiropractic within the broader healthcare dialogue, emphasizing its contributions to musculoskeletal health, interdisciplinary care, and community-based practice. ?Chiropractors are essential partners in advancing health system sustainability,? said Dr. Azad. ?Through HEAL, we advocate for a system that recognizes the value of collaborative, patient-centered care - and chiropractic has a meaningful voice at that table.?

HEAL operates according to a set of guiding principles that underscore the importance of equitable access, preventative health, and responsible use of finite public resources. The coalition affirms that health extends beyond healthcare, encompassing the social, economic, and environmental determinants of well-being.

For chiropractors, HEAL offers a unique platform to engage in national health system design, ensuring that the profession is recognized for its role in promoting mobility, reducing pain, and minimizing reliance on pharmaceutical or surgical interventions.

The CCA?s active role in HEAL also allows the chiropractic profession to collaborate with other health leaders in advancing shared goals including better care integration, system efficiency, and improved outcomes for patients.

CCA CEO Dr Ayla Azad (second left) serves as co-chair of HEAL

challenges and proposing strategies to enhance healthcare delivery in Canada.

As co-chair, Dr Azad plays a central role in shaping HEAL?s policy priorities and advancing an integrated, collaborative vision of care. Her leadership reflects the CCA?s strategic commitment

As Canada continues to navigate healthcare challenges and reforms, CCA?s influence within HEAL ensures chiropractic remains visible and valued in shaping the future of care across the country.

For more information on HEAL, visit www.healthaction.ca.

94 WORLD NEWS UNITED STATES

ACA ch ir opr act or s appoin t ed t o in f lu en t ial AM A codin g advisor y com m it t ee The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) has announced the appointment of Dr Della M. Schmid and Dr Morgan Price to the American Medical Association?s CPT Health Care Professionals Advisory Committee (HCPAC). Dr Schmid will serve as the primary representative, with Dr Price named as her alternate.

HCPAC plays a critical role in advising the AMA?s CPT Editorial Panel, which oversees the CPT (Current Procedural Terminology) code set - an essential component of healthcare administration in the United States. CPT codes underpin how services are reported, billed, and

reimbursed, and are used across public and private health systems. Representation on HCPAC ensures that chiropractic procedures are accurately described and appropriately valued, influencing both clinical practice and the financial sustainability of chiropractic services. ?These appointments are vital to advancing the chiropractic profession?s integration within mainstream healthcare,? said ACA President Dr Marc Nynas. ?Dr Schmid and Dr Price bring both clinical experience and policy insight, ensuring chiropractic services are properly represented within the CPT framework.?

Dr Schmid, based in Newtown, Connecticut, has over 30 years of clinical experience and has served in hospital-based roles.

Dr Price, of Seattle, Washington, is a staff chiropractor with the Veterans Administration and an experienced medical-legal reviewer. Both doctors are graduates of the ACA?s Health Policy Fellowship, a program designed to build capacity in coding, documentation, and policy engagement.

Their appointments strengthen chiropractic?s voice in national health policy and support broader efforts toward equitable recognition of chiropractic within the evolving U.S. healthcare system.

IRELAND

CAI an n ou n ces Ben M ar t in as n ew pr esiden t The Chiropractic Association of Ireland (CAI) has announced the election of Dr Benjamin Martin as its new President, effective March 2025.

Dr Martin previously served as Vice President from August 2019, contributing significantly to the association?s professional advocacy and organizational growth.

As President, he aims to strengthen the profile of chiropractic in Ireland - where the profession remains unregulated and reliant on voluntary self-regulation by professional bodies like the CAI.

Dr Martin brings a clear vision for advancing chiropractic through collaboration with stakeholders, public education initiatives, and the promotion of high standards in clinical practice, research, and interdisciplinary care.

He has pledged to continue efforts toward achieving formal recognition of the profession in Ireland, while supporting CAI members and enhancing the visibility of chiropractic?s role in musculoskeletal health.

95 WORLD NEWS

HONG KONG

CDAHK st r en gt h en s in t er disciplin ar y collabor at ion an d in t er n at ion al collabor at ion The Chiropractic Doctors Association of Hong Kong (CDAHK) continues to advance chiropractic through clinical outreach, education, and international engagement. Emphasizing evidence-based practice and collaborative care, the association has led several initiatives to promote spinal health and professional integration.

Locally, CDAHK chiropractors - led by Dr Wai Ting Lee - partnered with district councils to deliver spinal health screenings for children. These

community-based activities aim to raise early awareness of spinal health and promote preventive habits in youth populations.

Addressing occupational health challenges within the dental profession, CDAHK Vice President Dr Eric Chu delivered a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) lecture for the Hong Kong Dental Association. His presentation outlined common musculoskeletal complaints among dentists, including cervical and lumbar strain, and explored chiropractic's role in injury prevention and rehabilitation - underscoring the value of multidisciplinary healthcare partnerships.

Internationally, a CDAHK delegation led by Chair Dr Valerie Chu visited the UK, meeting with academic leaders from Health Sciences University and McTimoney College of Chiropractic. Joined by Dr Vincent Chan, Dr Kary Lam, Dr Jacky Yeung, and Dr Lucina Ng, the delegation toured teaching and clinical facilities and exchanged perspectives on global educational standards and curriculum development.

Dr Eric Chu also presented original research at the WFC?s 18th Biennial Congress in Copenhagen, Denmark. His study - published in Nature?s Scientific Reports - investigated the link between lupus erythematosus and arterial stroke, contributing to the growing body of chiropractic-led health science research.

CDAHK was well represented at the WFC Biennial Congress in Copenhagen

At the WFC Assembly of Members, CDAHK representatives reported on Hong Kong?s expanding contributions to interprofessional education and research. Through outreach, scholarly collaboration, and active engagement with global partners, CDAHK continues to support chiropractic?s evolving role in integrated, patient-centered care across Asia and beyond.

96

97 WORLD NEWS

UNITED STATES

Ron Ober st ein n am ed ICA Ch ir opr act or of t h e Year

Dr Ron Oberstein is the 2025 ICA Chiropractor of the Year

Dr Ron Oberstein has been honored as the 2025 Chiropractor of the Year by the International Chiropractors Association (ICA), receiving the organisation?s highest award during its 99th Annual Convention in Clearwater, Florida.

With over four decades in practice, education, and service, Dr Oberstein is widely respected for his principled leadership and commitment to chiropractic vitalism. He has served as President of Life Chiropractic College West since 2017 and will step down in June 2025. Prior to his presidency, he practiced in San Diego and served on the Life West Board of Regents for 25 years, including two as Chair.

A Lifetime ICA member and Fellow, Dr Oberstein has taught chiropractic technique and philosophy internationally and recently chaired the Association of Chiropractic Colleges. Together with his wife, Dr Mary Oberstein, he co-founded a nonprofit providing chiropractic care to underserved communities in Mexico - an initiative that continues to inspire future chiropractors, including their three daughters, all in practice.

Established in 1950 by ICA founder Dr BJ Palmer, the Chiropractor of the Year Award recognizes outstanding service to the profession and the ICA. Dr Oberstein?s award reflects his commitment to global engagement and chiropractic leadership.

98 EDUCATION NEWS

Ch ir opr act ic sch olar h on or ed by Am er ican St at ist ical Associat ion Palmer College of Chiropractic is pleased to announce that Dr Cynthia Long, M.S., Ph.D., professor and dean of research, has been elected a Fellow of the American Statistical Association (ASA). This honor recognizes her outstanding contributions to statistical science and her leadership in advancing research in chiropractic and integrative healthcare.

The ASA is the world?s largest community of statisticians and data scientists, serving professionals in more than 90 countries. Election as a Fellow is one of the highest honors the ASA bestows, with fewer than one-third of one percent of members selected each year. Nominees must demonstrate a sustained record of excellence in statistical research, education, leadership, or service to the field.

Dr Long holds an M.S. in statistics, a Ph.D. in biostatistics, and is an accredited professional statistician. She serves as director of the Office of Data Management & Biostatistics at the Palmer Center for Chiropractic Research. Throughout her career, she has worked to integrate rigorous statistical methods into clinical and health services research, enhancing the quality and credibility of evidence in the chiropractic field.

She has contributed to more than 120 peer-reviewed scientific publications and served as principal investigator, co-investigator, or data coordinating center lead on 30 federally funded research grants. In 2023, she was recognized as the leading author and collaborator in research on manual therapy for low back pain, a common and complex health concern worldwide.

Her professional influence extends across multiple academic and policy institutions. Dr Long has served on more than 75 NIH grant review panels, contributes to the editorial boards of several journals, and sits on the Research

Dr Cynthia Long

Advisory Board of the NIH-funded RAND REACH Center. She is also a research affiliate with the Osher Center for Integrative Health at Harvard Medical School and Brigham and Women?s Hospital.

Dr Long co-directs the Inter-Institutional Network for Chiropractic Research, a collaborative initiative involving researchers from Palmer, Yale University, and the Osher Center. She has also served as an officer in three ASA sections and recently completed a three-year term on the ASA Board of Directors. ?Being recognized as an ASA Fellow is a testament to Dr Long?s dedication and expertise,? said Dr. Dennis Marchiori, Chancellor and CEO of Palmer College. ?Her contributions are shaping the future of evidence-based chiropractic care.?

To learn more about the ASA Fellow Award, visit www.amstat.org.

99 EDUCATION NEWS

Pr of essor Ch r ist in a Cu n lif f e aw ar ded OBE f or ser vices t o h ealt h car e edu cat ion Professor Christina Cunliffe, Principal of the McTimoney College of Chiropractic, has been awarded the title of Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the King?s Birthday Honours List. The distinction recognizes her outstanding contribution to healthcare education over more than four decades.

A trailblazer in chiropractic education, Professor Cunliffe has played a central role in the development of the profession in the UK and beyond. Her leadership at the McTimoney College since 1998 has transformed the institution from a small, single-site college in Oxfordshire into an international hub for chiropractic education.

Today, the College has campuses in Manchester, Madrid, Hong Kong, and an upcoming site in Northern Ireland.

Under her guidance, the College has expanded access to chiropractic education, developing innovative, flexible programs designed to accommodate both traditional students and working professionals. It remains the only chiropractic institution in the UK solely dedicated to the training of chiropractors and the only college globally to operate across three countries.

In addition to her role as Principal, Professor Cunliffe continues to practice as a chiropractor.

She is a Fellow of both the Royal College of Chiropractors and the Royal Society of Biology, and holds a PhD from the University of Manchester. In 2010, she was awarded a personal Chair in Chiropractic by the University of Wales, and in 2021 received an Honorary Doctorate in Healthcare Leadership from BPP University.

Professor Cunliffe has served the profession at national level through the General Chiropractic Council, including on its Education and Investigating Committees, and as Treasurer of the Royal College of Chiropractors. She was also the

Professor Christina Cunliffe

founding Dean of the School of Health at a major London-based university, and is active in the Integrated Medicine Alliance. ?This honor is a recognition not only of Professor Cunliffe?s remarkable career, but of her tireless efforts to elevate chiropractic education and integrate it more fully into mainstream healthcare,? said a McTimoney College spokesperson.

The McTimoney College is accredited by both the General Chiropractic Council and the European Council on Chiropractic Education, preparing graduates to deliver safe, effective musculoskeletal care in collaboration with the wider healthcare system.

100 EDUCATION NEWS

AECC Hom ecom in g 2025 ? Celebr at in g 60 Year s of Ch ir opr act ic Excellen ce The AECC School of Chiropractic invites all alumni to its 60th Anniversary Homecoming and Alumni Reunion on Saturday, 27th September 2025, in Bournemouth. This special event celebrates AECC?s six decades of impact on chiropractic education and practice, offering alumni a chance to reconnect and reflect.

Alumni and guests are warmly welcomed back to campus to reunite with former classmates, tour new developments, and take part in CPD training tailored to professional interests.

Attendees are encouraged to help shape the program by sharing who they?d like to hear from

during CPD sessions.

Founded in 1965, AECC was the first chiropractic training institution in Europe and remains a global leader in evidence-based education, research, and clinical care. This anniversary celebrates a vibrant community of alumni who have led, innovated, and made a difference in healthcare worldwide.

To express your interest and help shape the event, visit: alumni.aecc.ac.uk/60th-anniversary.

Join us to honor the past, celebrate the present, and look ahead to AECC?s exciting future.

101 EDUCATION NEWS

Nor t h east College h ost s m ilit ar y ou t r each even t in Lon g Islan d Northeast College of Health Sciences?Levittown Health Center recently held a successful community outreach event, Services for Those Who Serve/Served, aimed at supporting U.S. military personnel, veterans, and their families.

The event took place on May 10, 2025, at the College?s Long Island campus and brought together nearly 30 organizations from Nassau and Suffolk counties dedicated to serving those who have served.

Northeast College?s Levittown Health Center. ?Our goal was to express gratitude and connect attendees with the services and support they deserve.?

Among the organizations represented were the Wounded Warrior Project, the Association for Mental Health and Wellness, the Levittown VFW, Paws of War, the Northport VA, the Nassau VET Center, and the National Alliance on Mental Illness, along with several local mental health and substance abuse recovery providers, veteran service agencies, and academic institutions. ?There is a strong network of veteran-focused support here on Long Island,? said Dr Ray. ?Hosting this event helped strengthen our connection to that network and reaffirmed the College?s commitment to serving military communities.?

Attendees received chiropractic care, alongside complementary therapies..

The event was coordinated in partnership with The Massage Approach and featured complimentary healthcare screenings, wellness consultations, and educational sessions provided

by Northeast?s chiropractic faculty, staff, and student interns.

Attendees received personalized wellness advice, including nutritional counseling, massage therapy, and chiropractic care, services routinely offered through the Levittown Health Center. ?As we approached Memorial Day and reflect on the sacrifices made by our Veterans, this event was an opportunity to honor and support those who continue to serve our communities,? said Daryon Ray, assistant dean of clinical education at

Northeast College has a longstanding relationship with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. In 2012, the College launched the nation?s first VA chiropractic residency program.

Today, it maintains partnerships with more than 10 VA medical centers, where students complete clinical rotations and deliver chiropractic services to veterans under faculty supervision. ?The College remains committed to expanding healthcare access for Veterans, both on our Long Island and Seneca Falls campuses,? Dr Ray added. ?We are proud to prepare students who serve with skill, compassion, and respect.?

102 EDUCATION NEWS

Pion eer in g st ep: h ospit al access f or ch ir opr act ic st u den t s in Spain In a historic development for chiropractic in Spain, the Fujitega Research Foundation has established a pioneering collaboration with the Fundación Jiménez Díaz University Hospital (FIJD), one of the country?s top-ranked medical and research institutions. Despite the lack of formal regulation for chiropractic in Spain, this agreement marks a significant advance in the integration of the profession within the national health and academic systems.

Starting in September, chiropractic students will gain access to FIJD?s renowned Spine Unit (Instituto Avanzado de Columna), where they will participate in research projects, contribute to data collection, and assist in experimental procedures.

The collaboration also opens the door to hospital-based clinical observation, particularly within the orthopedic department. Dr Arantxa Ortega, president of the Fujitega Research Foundation and a key figure in making this agreement possible, will guide and support the students throughout their involvement in these research activities. This represents a valuable opportunity in a country where chiropractic remains largely unfamiliar to both medical

The first chiropractic students to take part in hospital-based research projects.

Chiropractic students from the McTimoney College of Chiropractic Madrid with the lead researchers

professionals and the general public.

FIJD Hospital, affiliated with the Autonomous University of Madrid (UAM) and consistently ranked as the leading hospital in Spain by Forbes, stands out for its research-driven approach and commitment to innovation. The hospital recognizes chiropractic care as part of the evidence-based strategies used in conservative spine treatment, as reflected on the Spine Unit?s official platform.

This new partnership is already yielding practical benefits. Patients not indicated for surgery are being referred to the chiropractic clinic run by the Fujitega Research Foundation for evaluation and care. This represents one of the first structured referral pathways between a major hospital and chiropractic services in Spain? a collaboration not yet achieved in many countries where the profession is regulated.

By facilitating access to one of Spain?s most advanced hospitals, the Fujitega Research Foundation is shaping a new model of integration for chiropractic education and clinical practice.

This collaboration marks a significant step forward and sets a precedent for what is possible, even in systems that have yet to formally embrace the profession.

103 EDUCATION NEWS

Leader sh ip t r an sit ion at Lif e Ch ir opr act ic College West Pet er Kevor k ian appoin t ed Pr esiden t Life Chiropractic College West has announced the appointment of Dr Peter Kevorkian as its next President, effective July 1, 2025. A widely respected figure in chiropractic education and clinical practice, Dr Kevorkian brings more than four decades of professional dedication to his new role.

Known for his deep commitment to chiropractic philosophy, heart-centered service, and academic integrity, Dr Kevorkian?s selection signals a continued emphasis on principled leadership at one of the world?s leading chiropractic institutions. His vision aligns with Life West?s tradition of cultivating purpose-driven, philosophically rooted chiropractors who embody service, compassion, and excellence.

Dr Kevorkian has served the profession across numerous capacities ? from private practice to leadership in pediatric chiropractic, educational governance, and philosophical stewardship. His work with academic institutions and professional organizations has contributed significantly to shaping chiropractic thought and mentoring the next generation of chiropractors.

He will succeed Dr Ron Oberstein, who concludes his presidential tenure after years of devoted service and meaningful contributions to the Life West community and the chiropractic profession at large. Under Dr Oberstein?s leadership, the college strengthened its global partnerships, expanded its academic programs, and maintained a strong focus on the core values that define the chiropractic identity.

As the college moves into a new chapter, many within the global chiropractic community are celebrating this transition as both timely and inspiring. Dr Kevorkian?s appointment is viewed as a strong affirmation of Life West?s ongoing mission to cultivate leaders who are not only academically proficient but also grounded in the

Dr Peter Kevorkian assumed the presidency of Life Chiropractic College West on July 1, 2025

core values and philosophy that define the chiropractic profession.

With Dr Kevorkian at the helm, Life Chiropractic College West is poised to continue its role as a beacon of chiropractic education, innovation, and global impact. His leadership is expected to further enhance Life West?s commitment to evidence-informed practice, interprofessional collaboration, and the development of future-focused chiropractors prepared to meet the health needs of an evolving world. The announcement has been met with enthusiasm, marking a moment of renewal and optimism for Life West?s next chapter.

104

105 EDUCATION NEWS

Coven t r y Un iver sit y r eceives appr oval f or n ew ch ir opr act ic degr ee pr ogr am The General Chiropractic Council (GCC) has formally approved a new Master of Chiropractic (MChiro) degree program at Coventry University, marking a significant expansion in chiropractic education within the United Kingdom.

Coventry University, expressed pride in the achievement, noting that the course will be led by Dr Gabrielle Swait PhD, a practicing chiropractor and educational expert who helped develop the GCC?s Education Standards.

The program, which will welcome its first cohort in 2026, has been recognized as meeting the Education Standards required for GCC registration, subject to final conditions, following a rigorous assessment and review process.

The program will be underpinned by a commitment to widening participation, offering access to students from underrepresented backgrounds. A new chiropractic clinic is also in development, which will serve as a training facility for students and a community resource.

With this recognition, Coventry University becomes the sixth UK institution offering a GCC-approved chiropractic degree. The GCC continues to uphold high standards in chiropractic education and views this development as an important step in strengthening the future workforce and meeting growing public demand for chiropractic services.

Coventry University will host the UK's newest chiropractic program

This approval ensures that future graduates will be eligible to apply for registration with the GCC and practice as chiropractors in the UK. The decision was endorsed by the GCC?s Education Committee and approved by the Privy Council in January 2025.

Nick Jones, Chief Executive and Registrar of the GCC, welcomed the announcement: ?Ensuring that the next generation of chiropractors receive high-quality education and training is essential for maintaining public confidence in the profession.

This new program will contribute to the growth and development of chiropractic care in the UK.?

Dr Phillip Gould, Head of the School of Science at

Dr Gabrielle Swait will lead the new chiropractic program at Coventry University

106 EDUCATION NEWS

NWHSU t r an sf or m s ch ir opr act ic t ech n iqu e edu cat ion w it h For ce Sen sin g Table Tech n ology At Northwestern Health Sciences University (NWHSU), faculty are redefining the use of Force Sensing Table Technology (FSTT) to elevate student training in its competency-centered curriculum.

Under the leadership of Dr Ryan Oster, FSTT lab use has surged thirtyfold in just two terms, reflecting the growing importance and enthusiasm for this cutting-edge technology.

Research from the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College shows that using FSTT

classmates. This early integration provides real-time feedback and structured assessment, allowing for both skill development and early intervention. ?It helps identify students who need support and builds confidence in technique,? said Dean Katie Burns Ryan. Students benefit not only from improved technical performance but also from a more supportive, transparent learning culture.

Dr Ryan Oster highlighted how the technology aids students of all body types in refining speed and force for effective adjustments. Individualized coaching based on FSTT data helps students adjust hand positioning and technique for optimal results.

The initiative grew alongside Drs Oster and Sundin?s involvement in FSTT research. Their recent study on age-related factors and force dosage, co-authored with NWHSU colleagues and researchers from Canada, informs clinical teaching. This work also shaped NWHSU?s clinic entrance exam, which now includes FSTT-based cases simulating both normal and osteopenic anatomy. ?We?re testing whether students can use case details to appropriately modulate force,? explained Dr Oster.

Dr Alex Sundin of Northwestern Health Sciences University using the FSST technology

enhances students?confidence in spinal manipulation ? a trend Drs Ryan Oster and Sundin have witnessed firsthand through their popular student club, which draws up to 30 students per session and fosters consistent hands-on engagement in a low-stakes, collaborative learning environment.

With the redesigned curriculum, all students begin using FSTT in trimester two before adjusting

Dr Sundin emphasized the broader implications: ?Contextual factors account for about a third of therapeutic benefit. If we can teach students to recognize and apply these factors, we?re advancing both safety and effectiveness in chiropractic care.?

By integrating FSTT into curriculum, assessment, and research, NWHSU is leading innovation in chiropractic education and preparing students for real-world clinical excellence, ensuring safer outcomes and more confident practitioners.

107 EDUCATION NEWS

Royal College College of Ch ir opr act or s lau n ch es n ew Qu alit y Im pr ovem en t st an dar d The Royal College of Chiropractors (RCC) has published a new Chiropractic Practice Standard on Quality Improvement, providing an essential resource for chiropractors committed to delivering safe, effective, and continuously evolving patient care.

This publication is part of the RCC?s suite of Chiropractic Practice Standards, which are evidence-based documents that have been specifically developed to support chiropractors in meeting their professional obligations. They ensure that chiropractors are aware of their duties and responsibilities, and have the information necessary to deliver them with clarity and confidence. Other Practice Standards previously published have looked at clinical record keeping and how chiropractors communicate with patients.

This new Practice Standard on Quality Improvement highlights the legal requirements of chiropractors, including those laid out by the UK regulator, the General Chiropractic Council (GCC).

This is particularly important as they have just published a new Code of Professional Practice, which will be a mandatory requirement for all UK chiropractors from January 2026. Quality Improvement is a core theme of the new GCC Code, which comes into force on January 1, 2026 The Chiropractic Practice Standard outlines the expected standards of practice, as informed by the latest evidence, and offers practical guidance to support the implementation of the requirements into everyday practice.

At the launch of the new Practice Standard at the RCC?s Summer Conference in June, the RCC President-elect, Stuart Smellie, commented: ?Quality improvement is a normal part of most healthcare professions.

"It helps us to identify what?s working well and

where there?s room to do better, whether that?s improving patient outcomes, streamlining clinic processes, or enhancing patient communication.

By regularly reflecting on our practice, and making incremental improvements, we not only meet professional standards, but also improve the quality of care we provide, build greater trust with our patients, and contribute to the overall advancement and credibility of the profession.?

The new practice standard focuses on Quality Improvement

The Practice Standard consists of three sections: monitoring patient care, managing clinical risks, and education and training. It includes guidance and examples of validated patient reported outcome measures (PROMs), patient feedback resources (including PREMs), clinical audit, and various other quality improvement activities.

Guidance on clinical risk management includes risk assessment, as well as obligations included within the consent process and duty of candor.

The new GCC Code requires UK chiropractors to recognize incidents that risk patient safety, or have the potential to do so, and report these incidents through a recognized safety system so that the wider profession can learn from them.

The Standard can be read in full, or downloaded, from the RCC website https://rcc-uk.org.

108 EDUCATION NEWS

Logan Un iver sit y in au gu r at es Dr H. Gar r et t Th om pson as eigh t h pr esiden t Logan University celebrated a significant milestone in its nearly nine-decade history with the formal inauguration of Dr H. Garrett Thompson, DC, PhD as its eighth president. The ceremony marked the beginning of a new chapter for the university, which has earned a global reputation as a leader in chiropractic education and integrative health care.

Dr Thompson, a Logan alumnus, brings to the role an impressive combination of academic, clinical, and administrative experience. With dual credentials as a Doctor of Chiropractic and a PhD, he is known for his commitment to research-informed practice, innovation in education, and global health engagement. His inauguration signals Logan?s continued dedication to advancing evidence-based chiropractic education and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration across the health sciences.

In his inaugural address, Dr Thompson spoke of Logan?s strong foundation and outlined a vision for its future: one rooted in academic excellence, service to the profession, and global impact. ?Logan University is not only a pillar of chiropractic education but a beacon for what

H. Garrett Thompson succeeds Clay McDonald as Logan's eighth president

integrated, compassionate, and innovative health care can look like,? he said. ?I am honored to serve as its next president and to continue the work of preparing students to lead the future of health care.?

Dr Thompson succeeds Dr Clay McDonald, who served as president from 2013 to 2024 and is credited with guiding Logan through a period of significant growth, including academic program expansion, international outreach, and a strengthened commitment to research and community service.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by faculty, students, alumni, and leaders from the chiropractic and wider health care communities, underscoring Logan?s role as a hub for professional leadership and education.

A number of presidents from across the U.S. attended the inauguration

Dr Thompson?s appointment comes at a time of opportunity for the profession, as the global demand for conservative, non-pharmacological health care continues to rise. Under his leadership, Logan University is poised to strengthen its position as a leader in the preparation of tomorrow?s health care professionals.

109 EDUCATION NEWS

Nor t h east College n am es Eu gen e Spilker n ew assist an t vice pr esiden t f or ch ir opr act ic After a nationwide search, Northeast College of Health Sciences is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Eugene Spilker, D.C., DHPE, as the new assistant vice president for chiropractic, effective July 7, 2025.

Bringing more than 20 years of professional chiropractic experience to Northeast College, Dr Spilker was the first dean of chiropractic at Universidad Central del Caribe (UCC) in Bayamon, Puerto Rico.

Here, Dr Spilker was instrumental in securing accreditation for UCC's chiropractic program and served on the President?s Cabinet, a group responsible for expanding interprofessional collaboration across academic disciplines.

In 2020, Dr Spilker earned a Doctorate in Health Professions Education (DHPE), reinforcing his commitment to advancing evidence-informed chiropractic education and building upon his Doctor of Chiropractic degree earned at Logan University in 2000.

Dr Eugene Spilker

In this key leadership position, Dr Spilker will oversee the College?s Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) program, rooted in a deep commitment to Northeast?s mission of academic excellence, leadership and professional best practices in the health sciences.

Dr Spilker will provide strategic direction, ensuring curricular integrity, academic quality and compliance with the standards of the Council on Chiropractic Education (CCE) and the Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE). ?Aligned with our shared dedication to innovative teaching and lifelong learning, Dr Spilker is a great addition to our expert College community,? said Dr Anne Killen, provost and vice president for academic affairs. ?We are thrilled to welcome him and work together to support our chiropractic students as we continue in our tradition of excellence.?

After graduating, Dr Spilker opened a successful integrated health and wellness center that he operated for more than a decade before rejoining the university in 2012 to become a clinical instructor and later the clinical director of the student health center.

After his tenure at Logan University, Dr Spilker joined Keiser University during its inaugural year, where he contributed to the institution?s initial accreditation, collaborated on course and curriculum development, established the clinic system, assisted the dean in administrative duties, and served as chair of both the assessment and admissions committees.

In addition to leading the faculty and administrative team for Northeast College?s Doctor of Chiropractic program, Dr Spilker will work closely with deans and program directors to foster an environment that promotes professional development, teaching excellence and strategic growth across the chiropractic program.

110

111 EDUCATION NEWS

FICS Sch olar sh ip su ppor t s ch ir opr act or s in advan ced spor t s scien ce edu cat ion at Logan Un iver sit y Two chiropractors with a strong commitment to the global sports chiropractic community- Dr J. Alex Coulson of Canada and Dr Jorge Segall Bessudo of Mexico - have been awarded the prestigious International Sports Chiropractic Foundation Scholarship, enabling them to pursue postgraduate studies in Logan University?s Master of Science in Sports Science & Rehabilitation (MSSSR) program.

The scholarship, offered through a partnership between the Federation of International Sports Chiropractic (FICS) and Logan University, covers full tuition and supports chiropractors dedicated to elevating standards in sports care.

The scholarship is awarded annually following a competitive selection process. Eligible applicants must be Doctors of Chiropractic, active FICS members, and have completed or be nearing completion of the International Certificate in Sports Chiropractic (ICSC).

The selection criteria place strong emphasis on an applicant?s commitment to the sports chiropractic profession, particularly through leadership, clinical service, and education.

Dr Coulson, who had applied for the scholarship in previous years, described receiving the award as a significant personal milestone. ?It felt great knowing the hard work I put in paid off and that I would have the chance to enrol in Logan?s amazing MSSSR program,? he said.

Based in London, Ontario, Dr Coulson serves as team chiropractor for the London Majors baseball club and the University of Western Ontario?s track and field team.

His involvement with FICS includes serving on the Education Committee and participating in the chiropractic delegation at the 2022 World Games in Birmingham, Alabama.

Dr Segall Bessudo brings over two decades of experience in sports chiropractic to his studies. As President of the Mexican Federation of Sports Chiropractic, he works closely with national sports organizations and government stakeholders to ensure chiropractic is integrated into athletic healthcare delivery. He also organizes national seminars and conferences to promote continued professional development. ?I represent the profession to the Mexican government and report regularly to FICS on the state of sports chiropractic in Mexico,? he said.

Both chiropractors have chosen Logan University?s MSSSR program to deepen their clinical expertise and better serve their athletic patient populations.

For Dr Coulson, the program also represents an important academic step toward future aspirations, including qualification for the Royal College of Chiropractic Sports Sciences (Canada) Sport Sciences Residency Program. ?I chose Logan?s MSSSR because I wanted to improve my skills in treating sports injuries and build my reputation as a leading sports chiropractor in Canada,? he noted.

Dr Segall Bessudo praised the flexibility and quality of Logan?s online format. ?The professors are excellent and responsive, and the staff are always supportive,? he said. ?Even though it?s an online program, you never feel like you are alone.?

112 EDUCATION NEWS

CM CC Celebr at es 80t h Con vocat ion at Tor on t o's Roy Th om son Hall

Roy Thompson Hal played host to CMCC's eightieth convocation ceremony

On Friday, June 20, the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC) held its 80th Convocation at Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto, Ontario, setting the stage for a memorable day honoring the Class of 2025. The ceremony opened with welcoming remarks from Dr Mark Perrett, Chair of the CMCC Board of Governors. Graduates were formally introduced by CMCC President Dr Christine Bradaric-Baus and honored by Dr Silvano Mior, who delivered

the Convocation Address.

A longtime leader in the chiropractic profession, Dr Mior has held numerous academic, research, and executive roles throughout his distinguished career at CMCC beyond. In his address, he reminded the new graduates to pause and enjoy their successes, to prioritize self-care, stay positive and find purpose throughout their professional journeys. His message acknowledged the

broader legacy of the profession and the responsibility each new graduate now carries: "As you receive your degree from President, Dr Bradaric-Baus, consider it a baton. A baton handed to you from those who graduated before you, and who have the confidence in you to further our profession?s rightful place as contributing members of the health care community."

In her first convocation address

113 EDUCATION NEWS

CM CC Celebr at es 80t h Con vocat ion at Tor on t o's Roy Th om son Hall as President, Dr Bradaric-Baus urged the graduating class to follow the evidence, honor the humanity in every patient, and help build a more equitable and accessible health care system through their practice. Her reflections drew attention to the power of advocacy, empathy, and leadership, both in the clinic and beyond.

Valedictorian Dr Christina McArthur delivered a heartfelt speech to her fellow graduates, sharing personal anecdotes and celebrating the transformative power of chiropractic care on patients?lives. ?We help people reclaim movement, joy, and dignity,? she said, reminding everyone of the purpose behind the profession.

International guests joined in the celebration, honoring the achievements of their children, relatives, and friends as they crossed the stage to officially join the global community of chiropractic professionals and CMCC alumni.

Royal College lau n ch es n ew edu cat ion f acu lt y The Royal College of Chiropractors (RCC) in the UK has launched its new Education Faculty, marking a major step forward in positioning education as a central pillar of chiropractic practice. Aimed at improving the quality, consistency, and accessibility of educational resources, the faculty will support chiropractors at all career stages and promote innovation in teaching and academic leadership.

The initiative was developed by a steering group including Daniel Moore FRCC, Dr Phillip Dewhurst FRCC, Daniel Ruby LRCC, James Oldham LRCC, and Annie Newsam FRCC, whose vision helped shape its strategic goals.

Daniel Moore, speaking on behalf of the group, described the faculty as a ?commitment to excellence? in both chiropractic education and practice. He emphasised its role in fostering collaboration, best practice sharing, and continuous development across the profession.

While aligned with undergraduate education, its broader impact includes elevating patient education, supporting lifelong learning, and enhancing CPD. The Education Faculty will also support emerging educators and help build a community of practice relevant to all chiropractors. It plans to collaborate with universities, professional bodies, and global partners to align with international health education priorities.

This launch underscores the RCC?s ongoing commitment to high standards, patient safety, and professional development.

As part of its broader charitable mission, particularly in education and training, the new faculty represents a vital investment in the future of chiropractic care in the UK.

CMCC valedictorian Christina McArthur

114 EDUCATION NEWS

Sm all pat ien t s, big im pact : Logan Un iver sit y st u den t t o br in g pediat r ic ch ir opr act ic car e t o Au st r alia Jay Harthun, a chiropractor based in Sydney, Australia, is nearing completion of Logan University?s Master of Science in Chiropractic Pediatrics (MSCP) program - more than 9,000 miles from Logan?s Missouri campus.

Initially drawn to physical therapy, Dr Harthun changed direction after experiencing chiropractic care firsthand, appreciating its ability to provide both immediate relief and long-term wellness benefits.

After earning her Master of Chiropractic from Macquarie University, Dr Harthun felt underprepared for treating pediatric patients. ?I told my assistant not to book babies - I was terrified,? she recalled. This hesitation led her to seek further education, ultimately discovering Logan?s MSCP program, which she describes as a perfect fit. The rigorous two-year, largely online program has enhanced her skills not only in pediatric care but in treating adults as well.

Dr Harthun particularly values the program?s hands-on technique classes and PedTRA Weekends - annual, in-person training sessions in Missouri that allow students to refine manual therapy skills and build community.

Despite the geographical distance, she says the program?s support and interaction have helped her stay connected.

She is on track to become one of Australia?s first chiropractors with pediatric-specific postgraduate credentials and plans to use this distinction to elevate the profile of chiropractic care in pediatric health.

Dr Harthun aims to collaborate with hospitals, pediatricians, lactation consultants, and midwives to integrate chiropractic as a core part of children's healthcare.

She stresses the need for early involvement of

Dr Jay Harthun is enrolled on Logan University's MCSP program

chiropractors in pediatric cases rather than being a last resort.

Encouraging others to consider the MSCP, she describes the program as holistic, challenging, and immensely rewarding.

115 EDUCATION NEWS

New ch apt er f or Welsh In st it u t e of Ch ir opr act ic As the Welsh Institute of Chiropractic (WIoC) celebrates the graduation of the Class of 2025, it also bids a fond farewell to a building that has shaped generations of chiropractors. The long-standing clinic, which has been the heart of student learning and patient care for many years, welcomed its final patient this afternoon - marking the end of an era.

In just two weeks, a new chapter begins as the WIoC opens the doors to its brand-new clinic premises on the main University of South Wales (USW) Treforest campus. Purpose-built and equipped to support modern, evidence-informed chiropractic care, the new facility promises to offer an enhanced experience for both students and patients.

For countless students, this clinic was where they first donned their clinic coats, treated their first patients, and found their confidence as healthcare professionals. It has been a space filled with learning, laughter, challenges, and milestones. But now, it?s time to turn the page.

While nostalgia lingers, the excitement is palpable.

The move reflects WIoC?s ongoing commitment to innovation, excellence in education, and the continued advancement of the chiropractic profession in Wales and beyond.

The Welsh Institute of Chiropractic class of 2025

116 EDUCATION NEWS

CUKC f in alizes speak er s f or 2025 an n u al con f er en ce

Par k er Sem in ar s M iam i sees 900+ at t en dees

The 2025 Cleveland University-Kansas City (CUKC) Annual Conference and Expo (ACE) will take place September 11?13 at the Sheraton Hotel in Overland Park, Kansas, adjacent to the Overland Park Convention Center - home of previous ACE events. As a major professional development and networking event, ACE continues to grow in stature since its debut at the CUKC Centennial in 2022.

From June 6-8, 2025, Parker Seminars Miami, a premier event designed to empower professionals across the healthcare, business, and technology industries, hosted nearly 900 attendees. Professionals gathered at the JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa for this exciting event that focused on implementing forward-thinking strategies to inspire growth, innovation, and transformation.

Participants can earn up to 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs), with sessions covering a wide array of topics including neuroscience, sports chiropractic, posture, regulatory compliance, technique, and women?s health. A new feature for 2025 is a special four-hour session tailored to chiropractic assistants (CAs) and front-office staff. Led by Kim Klapp, founder of Assistants for Chiropractic Excellence (A.C.E.), this session will focus on team-building, patient communication, referrals, and office efficiency, offering key insights for enhancing practice success.

In addition to earning valuable CE credits and exploring the large Expo Hall, attendees heard from keynote speakers like Kevin O?Leary, known as ?Mr. Wonderful? from ABC?s Shark Tank, Jeff Cavaliere, the former Head Physical Therapist and Assistant Strength Coach for the New York Mets, Heidi Haavik, best-selling author and chiropractor, and Gabrielle Lyon, board-certified family physician and New York Times bestselling author.

Notably, Dr. Sherry McAllister, president of the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress (F4CP), will deliver a plenary presentation titled ?Building on the Lifestyle of Chiropractic: Live It, Love It, Teach It.?

Dr. McAllister brings global influence through F4CP?s network of over 37,000 members, advocating for the benefits of chiropractic care.

With expanded programming, dynamic speakers, and dedicated training for both doctors and support staff, the 2025 ACE event promises a comprehensive professional experience.

JW Marriott Miami Turnberry Resort & Spa played host to Parker

With special class tracks, book signings, luncheons, exclusive events like the Havana Nights Party, an expansive Expo Hall, and more, Parker Seminars Miami was truly a weekend to remember.

Next year ?s Parker Seminars Miami will take place June 12-14, 2026.

117 EDUCATION NEWS

Br ian M cAu lay appoin t ed Pr esiden t of Lif e Un iver sit y Life University has named Brian McAulay, DC, PhD, as its new president, bringing with him decades of leadership experience in chiropractic education and higher education administration.

A respected figure in both academic and professional chiropractic circles, Dr McAulay steps into the role with a demonstrated track record of strategic planning, enrollment growth, academic innovation and accreditation leadership.

Dr McAulay is the only chiropractic leader to hold a PhD in management and has been named a Fellow of the American Council on Education (ACE). He has served in top leadership roles at several institutions, including President of Parker University, Interim President of Sherman College, Vice Chancellor of South University, and Provost for Life University.

His background also includes a successful 13-year chiropractic practice, as well as experience launching and expanding health sciences programs across multiple campuses.

Known for his collaborative and transparent leadership style, Dr McAulay consistently fosters inclusive engagement among faculty, students, and institutional stakeholders. He is respected for his integrity, high standards, and a results-driven approach that empowers teams to excel while maintaining academic and operational excellence.

His service to the chiropractic profession is extensive: he has chaired numerous accreditation teams for the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS), served as Chair of the Council

Dr Brian McAulay is the new President of Life University

on Chiropractic Education (CCE) Admission Standards Committee, and held board roles with both the New Zealand College of Chiropractic and Life University.

He is also a past President and Chair of the Association of Chiropractic Colleges (ACC).

Dr McAulay holds a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Toronto, a Doctor of Chiropractic from Pennsylvania College of Chiropractic, and a PhD in Business and Management from Temple University. He brings a deep commitment to academic excellence, professional integrity and the transformative potential of chiropractic education.

118 EDUCATION NEWS

Nor t h east College of Healt h Scien ces celebr at es com m en cem en t m ilest on es Northeast College of Health Sciences in Seneca Falls, New York, marked a week of significant academic and professional milestones during its Winter 2025 Ceremony Week. Held in March, the celebrations included three major events: the Commitment to Excellence Pledge (March 25), the Transitions Ceremony (March 27), and Winter 2025 Commencement (March 29), which also featured the 100th meeting of the American College of Chiropractors (ACC).

graduates to take initiative and give back: ?Do what you can, when you can do it. Contribute back to your profession. That?s where the fun is.?

The ceremony also included the annual Convocation of the ACC, where Dr Fuhr and four others, including Northeast alumni and faculty, were inducted as Fellows, recognizing their advanced knowledge and service to the profession.

Earlier in the week, 17 first-trimester students participated in the Commitment to Excellence Pledge, marking the beginning of their chiropractic journey. President Dr Michael Mestan presented each with a pin symbolizing the College?s values: ?Excellence. Professionalism.

Leadership.?

Dr Arlan Fuhr delivered the commencement address

During the Commencement, 32 new Doctors of Chiropractic graduated after 10 trimesters of rigorous study and clinical training.

Student Government Association Executive President William Sayre (D.C. ?25) delivered the student address, reminding his peers that, ?To help people is a privilege.? College Trustee Virginia Robbins, J.D., commended the graduates as being ?powerfully prepared for a bright and successful future.?

Global chiropractic leader Dr Arlan W. Fuhr, founder and chairman of Activator Methods International, delivered the Commencement address. Reflecting on his decades of professional experience, Dr. Fuhr encouraged

At the Transitions Ceremony, 25 seventh-trimester students received their white coats, signifying the start of their outpatient clinical education. This milestone follows over two years of intensive academic and practical training.

Awards for academic, clinical, and leadership excellence were also presented during both the Commencement and Transitions events.

Northeast College?s Winter 2025 ceremonies reflected its ongoing commitment to education, leadership, and the advancement of chiropractic healthcare.

119 RESEARCH NEWS

Livin g w ell w it h ch r on ic pain : st u dy r eveals k ey con dit ion s f or qu alit y of lif e A new qualitative study published in The Journal of Pain (2025) sheds light on why some individuals are able to maintain a good quality of life despite living with chronic pain, while others face ongoing disability.

Conducted in Québec, the research explores how social, environmental, and personal factors interact to support well-being in people experiencing persistent pain.

that acknowledged their experiences and focused on meaningful goals, rather than only pain elimination, helped foster hope and progress.

2. Su ppor t ive an d Adapt able En vir on m en t s A flexible work environment, including remote work options, adjustable hours, and posture variation, was identified as vital in managing pain-related challenges. Social support, community involvement, and access to virtual networks also played an important role in helping participants stay engaged and reduce isolation.

3. Self -Accept an ce an d Iden t it y Redef in it ion

The study underscores the importance of person-centered, relationship-based care.

Researchers interviewed 25 adults who identified as having lived well with chronic pain for at least six months. Most participants were women (64%), white (88%), and highly educated, with common diagnoses including low back pain and generalized pain conditions (56%).

Three major themes emerged from the narratives, offering practical insights for healthcare professionals: 1. Equ al Par t n er sh ip in Car e Participants highlighted the value of being treated as partners rather than passive recipients in their healthcare journey. They emphasized that being listened to, understood, and respected by healthcare providers,especially in relation to their daily lives, was essential. Care

Letting go of past expectations and embracing a new sense of self was key to moving forward.

Participants spoke of adjusting their performance standards, focusing on what they could do rather than what they couldn?t, and finding renewed purpose through meaningful activities.

Clin ical Im plicat ion s The study underscores the importance of person-centered, relationship-based care that addresses not only physical symptoms but also personal values, goals, and social context.

A multidisciplinary model that considers patients?environments, support networks, and lived experiences may offer more sustainable outcomes for those living with chronic pain.

Reference: Bérubé M, Singer LN, Guénette L, Bourque L, Ngomo S, Hudon A. Living successfully with chronic pain: Identifying the pivotal conditions needed to make it happen. J Pain. 2025 Apr;29:105332.

120 RESEARCH NEWS

Clevelan d Un iver sit y-Kan sas Cit y (CUKC) n am ed as m em ber of RAND Resear ch Cen t er Cleveland University-Kansas City (CUKC) has become an institutional member of the RAND Research Across Complementary and Integrative Health Institutions (REACH) Center.

The University is now among 17 member institutions in North America, seven of which have Doctor of Chiropractic degree programs.

Nine others have complementary and integrative healthcare programs such as Chinese medicine, acupuncture, naturopathic medicine, and massage therapy.

effective, non-pharmacological approach to pain management,? Dr Cleveland commented. ?The evidence shows that when chiropractic services are part of an interdisciplinary approach to patient care, this results in a shift to a low-cost, low-tech, high-satisfaction patient model." ?Being accepted as a member of the RAND REACH organization opens doors to widespread collaborative research opportunities and will bring educational opportunities and research support for CUKC researchers and faculty,? Dr Pfefer added. ?This process will ultimately impact the delivery of safe and effective, evidence-informed care for the community and patients we serve.?

The RAND REACH Center is a collaboration between RAND and member institutions that train complementary and integrative health (CIH) practitioners.

Carl Cleveland III, President of Cleveland University Kansas-City

In addition, two individuals will represent the University in this new venture. Dr Carl Cleveland III, CUKC president, was selected as a RAND REACH Executive Committee member, and Dr Mark Pfefer, CUKC director of research, was named as a Research Advisory Board member.

Based in Santa Monica, Califormia, RAND is a global, nonprofit, nonpartisan research organization that provides leaders with information needed to make evidence-based decisions.

"A growing list of research studies and reviews demonstrates that the services provided by Doctors of Chiropractic represent a clinically

Its purpose is to leverage the research infrastructure at RAND to support collaborative research across and within these institutions in support of collectively beneficial health policy.

The RAND REACH Center envisions a multidisciplinary system of healthcare that offers patients access to a wide variety of evidence-based, safe, and effective options to improve their health.

The CIH Research Network is a web-based platform that supports researchers who are members of the REACH Center.

121 RESEARCH NEWS

At t it u des t ow ar ds ch ir opr act ic: a su r vey of Can adian spor t an d exer cise m edicin e ph ysician s A recent survey of 70 Canadian sport and exercise medicine physicians (CSPs) provides fresh insight into how chiropractic care is perceived within high-performance healthcare settings. Conducted in early 2023 with an 11% response rate from the Canadian Academy of Sports and Exercise Medicine, the study assessed attitudes by using the Chiropractic Attitude Questionnaire (CAQ), which scores perceptions from 0 (very negative) to 80 (very positive).

Mean CAQ scores reflected a generally positive to neutral stance: 45.7% of physicians expressed positive views, 24.3% were neutral, and 30% held negative views. The overall mean score was 39.0 (SD?15.3), comparable to prior findings among Canadian family physicians and obstetricians.

Key factors associated with more favorable views included working alongside chiropractors in community clinics or at multisport events (e.g., Olympics, Pan American Games), which correlated with CAQ scores ~ 46 compared to ~ 36 for those without such experience (p?<?0.01).

Positive exposure during residency, particularly among University of Toronto graduates, also contributed to higher scores, with Toronto-trained CSPs averaging 46.8 versus 37.4 for others (p?<?0.01).

The study provides fresh insight into how chiropractic care is perceived within high-performance healthcare settings.

Regression analysis revealed that referring more patients to chiropractors and positive residency exposure were linked with higher CAQ scores. In contrast, concerns about adverse events and reliance on research literature were associated with less favorable attitudes (p?<?0.05).

The findings suggest that interprofessional collaboration and firsthand clinical experience are key drivers of positive attitudes towards chiropractic care. Notably, 68.6% of CSPs had referred patients to chiropractors, primarily driven by patient request or professional relationships, and a majority (62.9%) believed that chiropractic content should be included in residency training.

These results underscore the value of multidisciplinary integration, particularly in sports and community settings, as a strategic path toward enhancing understanding and acceptance of chiropractic care.

Reference: Borody, C., D?Arcy, J., Waters, J. et al. Attitudes towards chiropractic: a survey of Canadian sport and exercise medicine physicians. Chiropr Man Therap 33, 19 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12998-025-00581-4

122

THE PROCESS OF INTEGRATING EVIDENCE (PIE) CONFERENCE 2025 Novem ber 6-8, 2025 | Host ed by an d at : Par k er Un iver sit y, Dallas, Texas Join us for the 2025 PIE Conference - a dynamic, interdisciplinary event designed to elevate how healthcare educators teach, practice, and lead with evidence. This three-day conference brings together leading voices in research, education, and clinical practice to reimagine how we embed evidence-based principles (EBP) into real-world care and curriculum.

PLENARY SESSIONS -?Dr Joh n St it es ? EBP Bootcamp: Building a Diamond Dog-Approved Foundation for Practice.

-?Dr Rebek ah Wilk s ? Patients Not Robots: Teaching Students the Art of Thinking on Their Feet.

-?Dr Rober t Vin in g ? Person-Centered Care: Doing the right thing is never the wrong thing.

-?Dr Kat h yr n Har t lieb ? Motivational Interviewing: Listening like a Lasso to what patients really want.

-?Dr Ian Cou lt er ? The Bioethical Basis of Evidence-Informed Practice WORKSHOPS Josh u a Golden ber g, ND, FABNG, Dipl.FMS, PhD Candidate, demystifies the AMSTAR2 framework and equips you to critique systematic reviews with clarity.

M ar y Lee Car t er , MS, CHSE, explores immersive learning tools that elevate clinical reasoning and evidence-informed decisions.

Rober t Vin in g, DC, DHSc offers pragmatic strategies for translating evidence into practice using real-world patient scenarios.

Gar y Sch u lt z, DC examines the complex landscape of science denial and understand the psychological, social, and cultural factors that shape their perspectives.

TRACKS -Th e Teach in g Tr ack is designed for educators to refine their skills in applying EBP, developing teaching strategies, modeling evidence-based curricula, and enhancing communication on the fundamental aspects of EBP.

Whether you're an academic, clinician, administrator, or researcher, PIE 2025 offers a space to grow, connect, and lead the charge for excellence in evidence-based education.

Space is limited - register today to be part of a movement that?s reshaping the future of healthcare teaching.

- Th e Adm in ist r at ive Tr ack is designed for program administrators, such as chairs, directors, deans, curriculum committee members, curriculum designers, and others who support educators. This track will enhance participant knowledge to develop, implement, and sustain an EBP-based curriculum for faculty and students at their institutions.

thepieconference.org

123 RESEARCH NEWS

Resear ch Com m it t ee spot ligh t : t h e pu r pose an d lim it at ion s of obser vat ion al r esear ch f or m u scu losk elet al com plain t s Sidn ey Ru bin st ein , Ch air , WFC Resear ch Com m it t ee For instance, studying the long-term effects of heavy lifting on spinal health would not be feasible through an RCT but can be examined through cohort or case-control studies, or for example, the risk associated with smoking. It would be unethical to examine smoking within the constructs of a RCT, yet we know from a vast volume of observational studies what the risks are.

Furthermore, observational research can assess treatment outcomes in routine clinical practice, complementing RCTs findings by including diverse patient populations.

Lim it at ion s of Obser vat ion al Resear ch

Professor Sidney Rubinstein

Observational research plays a crucial role in studying musculoskeletal complaints, such as back pain, osteoarthritis and sports injuries. It helps identify risk factors, understand disease progression, and evaluate the effectiveness of treatments in real-world settings. Unlike experimental studies (i.e. randomized controlled trials (RCTs)), observational research does not involve direct intervention, but instead analyzes data from patient populations over time. While valuable, this approach has inherent limitations, primarily due to the risk of bias, which I will explain below.

Pu r pose of Obser vat ion al Resear ch Observational studies provide insights into the natural history of musculoskeletal conditions and their associations with lifestyle, occupational, and genetic factors. They are essential when RCTs are impractical or unethical.

Despite its strengths, observational research has limitations, primarily due to its susceptibility to bias and confounding factors. Without randomization, which ensures that groups are equal at baseline, differences between study groups may influence outcomes, making it difficult to establish causation. Additionally, patient self-reporting, variability in clinical assessments, and loss to follow-up can affect the reliability of findings.

Th r ee Key For m s of Bias 1. Selection Bias ? Selection bias occurs when study participants are not representative of the general population, leading to skewed conclusions. In musculoskeletal research, this can happen if certain groups are over- or underrepresented based on how participants are selected. For example, a study on physical therapy for chronic lower back pain that recruits from private clinics may overestimate effectiveness, as these patients can afford and prioritize treatment. This excludes lower-income individuals, limiting the study?s generalizability.

124

125 RESEARCH NEWS

Resear ch Com m it t ee spot ligh t : t h e pu r pose an d lim it at ion s of obser vat ion al r esear ch f or m u scu losk elet al com plain t s 2. Information Bias ? This arises from errors in data collection, such as inaccurate patient recall or inconsistent diagnostic criteria, or selective differences between observed groups in the way outcomes are measured. In musculoskeletal research, patients with chronic pain may overestimate or underestimate their past symptoms, leading to mis-classification of disease severity.

3. Confounding Bias ? A confounder is an external factor that influences both the exposure (e.g. spinal manipulative therapy) and the outcome (e.g. pain or functional status). For example, a study examining the link between physical activity and back pain might be confounded by body weight, as obesity can independently contribute to both activity levels and musculoskeletal complaints. Statistical methods, such as multivariate analysis, can help control for confounding, but complete elimination is challenging.

Con clu sion Observational research is a valuable tool for studying musculoskeletal complaints, particularly when experimental studies (RCTs) are not feasible. However, this study design is inherently limited by biases that can affect the validity of its conclusions.

Recognizing and addressing these biases is crucial to improving the quality of observational studies and ensuring that their findings contribute meaningfully to musculoskeletal research and patient care.

Perhaps most importantly, it is incumbent upon the clinician to understanding how bias may be introduced and how that can effect results and conclusions.

St u dy explor es biom ech an ical st r at egies t o en h an ce HVLA A recent study published in Chiropractic & Manual Therapies (2025) explores how chiropractic students can modulate force during high-velocity, low-amplitude spinal manipulation (HVLA-SM) using targeted biomechanical strategies.

Led by Grand Choi and colleagues at the Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, the randomized crossover study evaluated force?time characteristics of thoracic HVLA-SM performed by 97 students on a prone manikin.

Participants applied six biomechanical strategies (S1?S6), designed to progressively increase force.

Peak force was the primary outcome, along with preload force, load rate, and time to peak force. Results showed a significant increase in peak force from S1 to S5, with no further gain at S6. Notably, S6 had the highest peak force but the lowest preload force. Some strategies did not significantly affect load rate, indicating that overall technique may matter more than targeting specific muscle groups.

The study concludes that structured exposure to different biomechanical strategies can enhance students?ability to modulate force, an essential clinical skill. The authors recommend integrating such training into chiropractic curricula to improve manual proficiency and support safe, effective patient care.

Reference: Choi, G., McGuinty, A., Smith, N.M. et al. Efficacy of different biomechanical strategies for modulating force?time parameters of high-velocity low-amplitude manipulation of the thoracic spine: a randomized crossover experimental study.

Chiropr Man Therap 33, 25 (2025).

126 RESEARCH NEWS

Developin g ear ly car eer r esear ch er s: CARL III gat h er in Den m ar k The Chiropractic Academy of Research Leadership (CARL) is a global network of talented early career researchers within chiropractic. CARL is now running its third cohort, CARL III, which recently gathered for its first residential, hosted at the University of Southern Denmark (SDU) by founders and mentors Professors Jan Hartvigsen and Jon Adams.

This immersive week brought together Fellows from Australia, Canada, Denmark, The Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.

The residential focused on building relationships, fostering collaboration, and supporting

long-term academic career planning. For many Fellows, it was their first opportunity to meet in person, setting the foundation for future projects and lifelong professional networks.

Fellows engaged in a dynamic program that included workshops, project development sessions, and expert presentations from a distinguished lineup of researchers including Professors Jeff Hebert, César Hincapié, Søren Skou, as well as leading academics from SDU, who shared their insights on clinical research, implementation science, health systems, and the future of evidence-informed

care. Sessions also explored academic resilience, publishing strategies, grant writing, and leadership in research.

A special highlight of the residential was the presence of CARL I and CARL II senior fellows, who joined the group on the final day. Their participation helped build continuity across cohorts, offering mentorship, shared experiences, and opportunities to strengthen inter-cohort collaboration and friendships. Their reflections on career journeys and advice on navigating academic challenges added valuable perspective for the new Fellows.

Outside the seminar room, the group embraced a bit of cultural exchange, with the Australian fellows introducing everyone to Australian Rules Football, adding camaraderie and fun to the experience. Informal dinners and social time further enhanced connections and team spirit.

The CARL program continues to support the development of early career researchers in chiropractic by working to advance the science and practice of musculoskeletal health care worldwide. This residential marked another important step in building a strong, connected, and capable global chiropractic research community.

Past and present CARL Fellows gathered at the University of Southern Denmark

127 RESEARCH NEWS

CM CC Appoin t s M ar t h a Fu n abash i t o M cM or lan d Fam ily Resear ch Ch air The Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College (CMCC) has announced the appointment of Dr Martha Funabashi as the new McMorland Family Research Chair, effective June 1, 2025.

She succeeds Dr Samuel Howarth, who has held the position with distinction since its founding in 2011.

of Chiropractic.

Among her ongoing projects are the implementation of Force Sensing Table Technology (FSTT®) in CMCC?s Campus Clinic, and an international study examining biopsychosocial factors contributing to positive outcomes in patients with low back pain. As part of this work, she will undertake a research residency at the University of Southern Denmark from 2025 to 2027. ?Her vision and expertise in manual therapy and patient safety will be instrumental in shaping the Chair ?s future,? said Dr Christine Bradaric-Baus, President of CMCC. Dr Howarth will remain as Director of Human Performance Research, ensuring continuity during the transition.

Dr Gord McMorland, whose family established the Chair, praised the appointment: ?We?re pleased to see the Chair evolve to include research into biopsychosocial factors that improve patient outcomes.?

Martha Funabashi is the new McMorland Family Research Chair

Dr Funabashi is an internationally recognized researcher in conservative spine care, known for her work on the biomechanics, mechanisms, and safety of manual therapies. Her research portfolio is both broad and collaborative, spanning basic science and clinical application.

She leads interdisciplinary, international teams and is widely published in leading peer-reviewed journals. Her recent accolades include Researcher of the Year (2023) from the American Chiropractic Association and the Scott Haldeman Award for Outstanding Research from the World Federation

The McMorland Chair, established to study spinal instability, degeneration, and the impact of daily movement on spine health, remains a cornerstone of CMCC?s commitment to advancing chiropractic research and evidence-informed care.

Dr Funabashi?s leadership will not only strengthen CMCC?s research profile but also inspire the next generation of scholars dedicated to advancing chiropractic science and improving patient outcomes worldwide.

128 RESEARCH NEWS

List en in g t o lived exper ien ce: older adu lt s w it h CLBP r ef lect on exer cise an d edu cat ion pr ogr am expectations, exercise led to noticeable reductions in pain, altering their beliefs about its efficacy.

However, the study also highlighted barriers.

Coexisting health conditions, mobility limitations, and transportation challenges often hindered engagement. While motivational text messages were appreciated by some, others struggled with access or digital literacy, underscoring the need for tech-sensitive approaches.

The study combined pain education, group and home based exercise and supportive text messages..

A recent qualitative study published in Chiropractic & Manual Therapies sheds valuable light on how older adults perceive and respond to non-pharmacological interventions for chronic low back pain (CLBP).

Crucially, the study concludes that to be effective, exercise and education programs for older adults with CLBP must be tailored from the outset. This includes accounting for social dynamics, physical environments, and the technological capabilities of participants. The findings underscore the value of patient-centered design and affirm the role of chiropractors in delivering empathetic, evidence-informed care that respects the lived realities of older adults.

Reference: de Jesus-Moraleida, F.R., Nunes, A.C.L., Costa, C.S. et al. ?They knew how to take care of people?: a qualitative study on older adults with chronic low back pain perspectives of an exercise plus education program. Chiropr Man Therap 33, 24 (2025).

The study, led by Fabianna Resende de Jesus-Moraleida and colleagues, explored the experiences of participants aged 60 and older who engaged in the PAT-Back program, an intervention combining pain education, group and home-based exercises, and supportive text messages.

Through 14 in-depth interviews, researchers identified key themes influencing participation and outcomes. Social support emerged as critical: participants emphasized the importance of caring clinicians, encouragement from peers and family, and the structured supervision of the program.

Many reported that, contrary to their initial

The study promotes tailored exercise programs for older adults

129 RESEARCH NEWS

WFC RC m em ber M ik e Sch n eider t o lead $6.4M NIH-f u n ded ENRICH cen t er at Un iver sit y of Pit t sbu r gh The University of Pittsburgh has received a $6.4 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to establish a virtual research resource center aimed at transforming the landscape of complementary and integrative health (CIH) research in the United States.

The newly formed Pitt ENRICH Center - short for Encouraging Research in Complementary and Integrative Health Institutions - will serve as a national collaborative hub, providing critical training, mentorship, and support to CIH researchers from across the country.

The ENRICH Center is designed to help researchers in disciplines such as chiropractic, acupuncture, naturopathy, and osteopathy gain the necessary skills to pursue evidence-based studies. These fields, while widely used by patients seeking non-surgical and non-pharmacological care, have historically lacked the funding and infrastructure needed to conduct

Dr Michael Schneider is a member of the WC's Research Committee

rigorous scientific research. As a result, practitioners are often isolated and under-resourced, particularly when it comes to obtaining competitive NIH grants.

Pitt?s selection as the host of this initiative is rooted in its deep institutional expertise and history of excellence in NIH-funded research. ?With this grant, Pitt will be seen as one of the national leaders in designing, training, and increasing the quantity and quality of evidence-based complementary and integrative medicine research,? said Dr. Michael Schneider, one of the grant?s principal investigators and a leading NIH-funded chiropractic researcher.

Schneider also serves as director of Pitt?s innovative Doctor of Chiropractic program - the first CIH degree to be offered at a research-intensive university in the United States.

Dr Thomas Radomski will co-lead the ENRICH Center

The ENRICH Center will be co-led by Dr. Thomas Radomski, a practicing internist and associate director of Pitt?s Institute for Clinical Research Education (ICRE). The ICRE is nationally recognized

130

131 RESEARCH NEWS

WFC RC m em ber M ik e Sch n eider t o lead $6.4M NIH-f u n ded ENRICH cen t er at Un iver sit y of Pit t sbu r gh for its comprehensive training programs in clinical research, offering instruction in grant writing, trial design, and interdisciplinary collaboration. ?The Institute for Clinical Research Education is thrilled to be a key partner in the University of Pittsburgh?s new ENRICH center,? Dr Radomski said. ?We look forward to applying our longstanding expertise in clinical research training, education and professional development to support and advance the careers of complementary and integrative health researchers across the nation.?

The virtual nature of the ENRICH Center ensures accessibility for CIH researchers across the country, especially those at smaller institutions with limited research infrastructure. Through structured support in areas such as clinical research methods, mentorship, grant development, and administrative assistance, the ENRICH Center will empower these researchers to develop competitive funding proposals and engage in meaningful scientific inquiry.

This effort builds on a growing NIH initiative to boost the research capacity of CIH institutions.

Currently, the NIH funds only one other virtual research resource center: the RAND Corporation in Santa Monica, California. ?By collaborating together, the Pitt ENRICH Center will join RAND to jointly lead the effort to improve the research capacity of CIH institutions,? Schneider explained.

A key strength of the Pitt proposal was its interdisciplinary and experienced team of investigators from across the university?s schools of the health sciences. These experts bring a wealth of knowledge in fields such as clinical trials, pain neuroscience, biostatistics, physical therapy, chiropractic, and data analytics. Their shared commitment to evidence-based research and proven success in working with under-resourced institutions made the University

University of Pittsburgh

of Pittsburgh a standout candidate for this significant NIH award. ?We won this award because of the talent at Pitt and our accomplishments,? said Anthony Delitto, vice provost for Digital Education, who played a central role in developing the grant proposal. ?We have a track record of researchers from different disciplines obtaining grants from the NIH, and Dr. Schneider is well known for the number of NIH grants he has received and for executing evidence-based research in chiropractic studies.?

Ultimately, the ENRICH Center is expected to have a significant and lasting impact not only on the academic community but also on patients nationwide. ?As CIH researchers become more proficient at testing the efficacy of these interventions,? Delitto noted, ?this will have an immediate impact on patients as they become better informed on a wide array of interventions so they can make better choices about their health care.?

With this new initiative, the University of Pittsburgh is not only furthering its mission as a top-tier research institution but also helping to bridge the gap between traditional and integrative approaches to health.

132 RESEARCH NEWS

Pr ogn ost ic f act or s in n on -specif ic low back pain : in sigh t s f r om Fr en ch ch ir opr act ic clin ics A recent prospective observational study conducted in France offers valuable insights into the baseline factors that predict early improvement in patients presenting with non-specific low back pain (NSLBP) without radicular symptoms.

The study followed adult patients experiencing a new episode of NSLBP, with data collected at one week and four weeks after the initial consultation in chiropractic clinical settings.

Improvement was measured using self-reported global change, variations in pain intensity and unpleasantness, and changes in functional status via the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI).

Statistical models were applied to identify the strongest predictors of improvement.

At the 7-day follow-up, several factors were associated with early improvement. These included a shorter duration of the current episode, fewer painful body areas, lower baseline disability, and reduced pain intensity.

These findings suggest that patients presenting with a lower initial symptom burden are more likely to experience a quicker recovery.

Interestingly, patient expectations also played a role, with those holding negative treatment expectations being significantly less likely to report improvement.

By the 4-week follow-up, lower initial disability and pain intensity continued to be significant predictors. Additionally, first-time chiropractic patients were less likely to show improvement, while a positive clinical prognosis from the chiropractor strongly correlated with better outcomes.

This study highlights the complex interplay between physical symptoms and psychosocial factors in the management of low back pain. It

emphasizes the importance of managing patient expectations and leveraging clinician insight as part of a holistic approach to care.

The findings may guide chiropractors in tailoring early intervention strategies and strengthen the case for further research on prognostic modeling in chiropractic practice.

Reference: Barbier, G., Descarreaux, M., Cottin, F. et al. Prognostic factors associated with improvement in patients with an episode of non-specific low back pain without radicular syndrome: a prospective observational exploratory study. Chiropr Man Therap 33, 21 (2025).

133 RESEARCH NEWS

ACE 2025 sh in es in M iam i: Par ker spot ligh t s clin ical eviden ce f or agein g popu lat ion s The Parker University Research Center successfully hosted the 4th annual Abstracts for Clinical Evidence (ACE) program during Parker Seminars: Miami, June 6?8, 2025. The event centered on the theme of Older Adults, attracting a diverse international team of clinicians, educators, and scientists who presented their work through visually compelling infographics, an evolution from the conference?s previous iPoster format.

Held during Miami?s Parker Seminars, ACE stands as a cornerstone initiative designed to promote knowledge translation by showcasing clinical evidence in a visually engaging, scientifically rigorous format. The event aimed to make research more accessible to practicing

clinicians while encouraging evidence-informed care. Submission to the competition was limited to 50 infographics, which were peer-reviewed for clarity, innovation, and clinical relevance. Award prizes totaling $850 were offered for the top three entries: $500 for first place, $250 for second, and $100 for third.

This year ?s submissions covered a wide range of topics, including human performance, chiropractic applications, neuroscience, public health, and nutrition, with a strong focus on research relevant to older adult populations.

Many submissions addressed issues such as fall prevention, age-related musculoskeletal conditions, cognitive function, and the role of chiropractic care in healthy ageing.

Participants at the Abstracts for Clinical Evidence event, held at Parker Seminars Miami

134

135 RESEARCH NEWS

ACE 2025 sh in es in M iam i: Par k er spot ligh t s clin ical eviden ce f or agein g popu lat ion s Parker ?s transition to an infographic format reflects its ongoing commitment to innovative research dissemination, emphasizing accessibility, engagement, and impact. The event enabled early-career and senior researchers alike to receive constructive feedback, build networks, and engage in

meaningful multidisciplinary dialogue during one of chiropractic?s most prominent annual gatherings.

Looking ahead, ACE will return at Parker Seminars: Las Vegas in 2027, focusing on the critical theme of Quality and Patient Safety. The Parker University Research Center ?s successful rollout of ACE 2025 in Miami

underscores its commitment to advancing clinical evidence and mentoring the next generation of researchers. By merging visual storytelling with scientific rigor, the ACE program continues to bridge the gap between research and practice, shaping the future of chiropractic care.

Tailor ed car e f or n eck pain : st u dy f in ds m or e t r eat m en t is n ot alw ays bet t er A new study from Karolinska University Hospital in Sweden has found that individually tailored treatment plans can improve daily function in people with persistent or recurring neck pain, especially for those who do not initially respond to standard care. However, the research also reveals that more treatment is not always better and, in some cases, may even worsen symptoms.

The study included 126 adults (average age 56) with ongoing or recurring neck pain. All participants began with a two-week program focused on stretching exercises. One group received stretching alone, while the other combined stretching with manual therapy.

Following this initial phase, participants were offered an additional two months of individually tailored treatment, adjusted by clinicians based on the patient's specific needs and progress.

For patients who did not experience improvement during the first phase, the tailored approach led to better function and reduced impact on daily life despite no significant change in pain levels. In contrast, those who had improved during the

initial treatment phase experienced a worsening of symptoms when further treatment was introduced.

The study suggests that treatment plans should be responsive to individual progress, rather than applied uniformly. If a patient shows clear improvement - defined as a two-point or greater reduction on an 11-point pain scale - additional treatment may not only be unnecessary but potentially counterproductive.

Clin ical t ak eaw ay: Healthcare providers should assess whether ongoing care is justified based on individual response. For non-responders, personalized treatment may offer valuable benefits, but for those already improving, less may indeed be more.

Reference: Galaasen Bakken A, Eklund A, Oksanen A, Axén I. The response to individualized treatment after a standardized treatment protocol among neck pain sufferers: a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial. Chiropr Man Therap.

2025 Apr 11;33(1):13.

136

137 RESEARCH NEWS

Per son al r ef lect ion s: r et u r n in g t o t h e r ole of clin ician scien t ist Cor r ie M ybu r gh Ph D Around the time the second wave of COVID hit Europe, I had determined that my career as a full-time academic had run its course. It was time to make a change and as opportunity would have it, a clinician-scientist path opened for me, where I could practice four days a week whilst keeping the remaining one, for academic endeavors.

From my first, utterly exhausting full day back in practice, I was struck by the rapidity of input one receives from the actors populating primary care practice. No committees or 30-page applications; if it works you quickly find out, if it doesn?t you quickly found out. This makes it possible to develop potential research ideas rapidly, as one perpetually stands at the coalface. As a relative free-agent, decisions regarding a potential collaboration are not dependent on the agreement of a superior, who may (or may not) share your vision. You decide and live with the consequences.

Looking at issues through the lens of a researcher, one can see opportunities how interesting clinical phenomena might be operationalized as researchable questions. Moreover, with relevant incentives one can lever a professional network of contacts to, for example, secure research participants and data collection points.

The reality of clinical practice is that it is dependent on fixed routines. Patients have to be seen when it is convenient for them, not you.

Being available on Monday morning at 8am as well as 6pm, is physically taxing, but also limits how often you can be out of the clinic. Moreover, to go home after a long day of seeing patients and then shift into ?academic mode?requires discipline, as the desire to relax and unwind from the day?s exertions creates significant inertia.

Maintaining the academic millstone of project

Corrie Myburgh is a member of the WFC' Research Committee

design, data collection, output reporting and ultimately knowledge translation, is ordinarily difficult. Doing so in a limited capacity and when one is not in physical contact with the academic environment is really tricky. A constant and active effort is required here to maintain momentum with existing relationships, but also foster new ones.

In closing then, one might ask: ?What has clinical practice added to my life beyond the world of academia??

For me, that answer has to be an authentic experience and privilege of accompanying a fellow human on a health journey. Can I help the student with very limited financial means to overcome their debilitating episodes of headache? Can I maintain the quality of life of an elderly person with multiple co-morbidities? I don?t know, but I?ll give it my best shot.

138

THANK YOU TO OUR CORPORATE AND EDUCATIONAL PARTNERS FOR THEIR GENEROSITY AND SUPPORT

PREM IER CORPORATE PARTNER Logan University

PLATINUM CORPORATE PARTNERS

SILVER CORPORATE PARTNERS Chiropractic Diplomatic Corps International Medical University, Chiropractic Program Northeast College of Health Sciences

Activator Methods International

New Zealand Chiropractic Board

Cleveland University Kansas City

The Royal College of Chiropractors

Chiropractic Economics

University of Bridgeport - College of Chiropractic

Dynamic Chiropractic Magazine Ergotherapy Solutions Human Touch International Board of Chiropractic Examiners NCMIC Palmer College of Chiropractic Parker University

University of Western States

BRONZE CORPORATE PARTNERS Asociación de Quiroprácticos de Puerto Rico College of Chiropractic Sciences Elite Chiropractic Tables Federation of Canadian Chiropractic

DIAM OND CORPORATE PARTNERS Canadian Chiropractic Protective Association Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College Foot Levelers National Board of Chiropractic Examiners The American Chiropractor

GOLD CORPORATE PARTNERS Northwestern Health Sciences University Serola Biomechanics, Inc.

Four Star Industries Pte Ltd Fujitega Research Foundation Japanese Association of Chiropractors KCS Association Kiropraktorernes Videnscenter National University of Health Sciences

Sommeil Terre Pte Ltd Southern California University of Health Sciences Southern California University of Health Sciences The Joint Chiropractic

139

THANK YOU TO OUR INDIVIDUAL SUPPORTERS FOR THEIR GENEROSITY AND SUPPORT

PLATINUM INDIVIDUAL SUPPORTERS (US$2000)

AYMON Michel, DC (Switzerland) BICKLEY, Kevin DC (USA) BORGES Sira, DC, MD (Brazil)

CLEVELAND III Carl, DC (USA) MORGAN William E., DC (USA)

BRACKENBURY Wade, DC (Vietnam) BROWN, Steven (USA) BUSHWAY, Deborah PhD (USA)

GOLD INDIVIDUAL SUPPORTERS (US$750) BROWN, Richard DC, LL.M, FRSPH (UK)

CHAPMAN-SMITH David, Mr (Canada) CHUN PU CHU Eric, DC, MHA, PhD (Hong Kong) CRAIG Stuart and Leonie, DC (New Zealand)

HALDEMAN Scott, DC, MD, PhD (USA)

CULBERT Gregory M., DC (USA)

MALTBY, John, DC (USA)

DONATO Phillip, DC (Australia) DOUCET, Chantale (Canada)

SILVER INDIVIDUAL SUPPORTERS (US$500)

EL SANGAK Hussein, DC, MD (USA) EL SANGAK Omar, DC, MD (Egypt) ERRINGTON Timothy, DC (Singapore)

BOO Gordon Kou Tuan, DC (Malaysia)

GREEN Bart, DC (USA)

KUWAOKA Toshifumi, Mr (Japan)

HEESE Glen, DC (USA)

WHITMAN Larry, DC (Australia)

JOHANESSEN Espen, DC (Norway) JOHNSON Claire, DC (USA)

BRONZE INDIVIDUAL SUPPORTERS (US$180)

JOHNSON Stephanie, DC (USA) KARLOVASSITIS, Parry DC (Australia)

ADRA Tarek, DC (USA) ALDRICH Bruce, DC (USA)

KIL Vivian, DC (Netherlands)

ANDERSON Kris, DC (USA)

KOPANSKY-GILES Deborah, DC (Canada)

ANOSOV Oleg, DC (USA)

LAW, Brian (USA)

AREVALO, Joseph DC (USA)

LEPIEN Rose, DC (USA)

140

THANK YOU TO OUR INDIVIDUAL SUPPORTERS FOR THEIR GENEROSITY AND SUPPORT

BRONZE INDIVIDUAL SUPPORTERS (US$180)

SPORTELLI, Louis (USA) STEWART Gregory, DC (Canada) TAKEYACHI Kei, DC (Japan)

LING Kok Keng, DC (Singapore) McNABB Brent, DC (USA) MOSS Jean, DC, MBA (Canada) NAPULI Jason, DC, MBA (USA) PAPADOPOULOS Stathis, DC (Cyprus) RAMCHARAN, Kimberly (USA) RIFFEY, Cleo S., DC (USA) SERRANO , Mayda (Puerto Rico)

TAO Cliff, DC, DACBR (USA) TAYLOR Michael K, DC (USA) TRUUVAART Gerly, DC (Estonia) VALLONE Sharon, DC, DICCP (USA) VAUGHAN Bruce, DC (Hong Kong SAR) WILES Michael, DC (USA) WILLIAMS John, DC (Italy) WOLFSON Wayne, DC (USA)

SOSNA Janet Ruth, DC (Singapore)

WANTTOMAKEADIFFERENCETOYOUR PROFESSION?CONSIDERBECOMINGAN INDIVIDUALSUPPORTEROFTHEWFC TODAY! FORINFORMATION,CONTACTUSAT INFO@ WFC.ORG

141