Chiropractic Care in Canada
Date: May 18, 2018
Guest Post from Dr David Peeace
With over 8,000 practicing chiropractors in Canada who help thousands of Canadians live pain-free lives every day, now is an opportune moment to celebrate being a chiropractor. Chiropractors are experts in the musculoskeletal (MSK) system, with rigorous academic and practical education earning them a Doctor of Chiropractic (DC). As chair of the Canadian Chiropractic Association’s Board, and as a Doctor of Chiropractic, I want to share with you some of the great strides our profession has made – and where we are continuing to grow!
In 2018, I am proud to report that the evidence that informs our practice is flourishing. One of the most compelling pieces of research that came out earlier this year, was Jan Hartvigsen’s publication in The Lancet on prevention and treatment of low back pain. It’sa must read.
The Canadian Chiropractic Research Foundation (CCRF) is also entering an exciting new era. The CCRF will be funding National Research Priorities that were developed in collaboration with leaders across the country and CCRF researchers.
The National Research Priorities were designed to target chiropractic research where Canadians need it most. In areas where our care can have the greatest impact on Canadians’ health. Patient-centred care that is supported by research is integral to the Canadian chiropractic profession.
The CCA believes in strong regulation and supports the governing authority’s mandate to protect public interest through effective enforcement of those standards. In addition to regulation, the Canadian Chiropractic Guidelines Initiative (CCGI) has been an amazing force in transforming the culture of the chiropractic profession to one that is guided by evidence-informed practice.
As a national professional association, we take great effort to support members’ professional practice. Being part of the chiropractic community plays a role in public health, a role that we here at the CCA take very seriously. Our national position statements are written and revised with public health at the center of what we do.
For example, the CCA recognizes that vaccination and immunization are established public health practices in the prevention of infectious diseases. And that vaccination is not within the scope of chiropractic practice. You can read a full list of position statements here.
Continuously and consistently sharing these messages with our membership – and engaging in important discussions with leaders and stakeholders – will always be a large part of our national advocacy role.
While I’ve spoken a lot today about what we do, what I’m most passionate about is why we do it. Chiropractors are here to help Canadians live healthy, active, and pain-free lives. We are experts in the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of conditions and disorders related to the muscular, skeletal, and nervous systems.
Chiropractors are most often recognized for their expertise in resolving persistent back or neck pain and headaches or migraines that prevent patients from enjoying their everyday lives. That is why I’m proud of the work the CCA is doing, and that of my colleagues. Together, we can make Chiropractors an integral part of every Canadian’s healthcare team by 2023.
Sincerely,
Dr. David Peeace