Chiropractic + Naturopathic Doctor

Editor’s Note: December 2006

By David Stubbs   

Features Leadership Profession

Nowhere are chiropractors greeted with such wild enthusiasm as at
Toronto’s Evergreen Centre for Street Youth where the kids are
exuberantly vocal about chiropractic’s tangible benefits.

Nowhere are chiropractors greeted with such wild enthusiasm as at Toronto’s Evergreen Centre for Street Youth where the kids are exuberantly vocal about chiropractic’s tangible benefits.  Apart from being role models of adults who can be trusted, the chiropractors volunteering there offer intervention that is a viable alternative to pain-deadening drugs.
Apparently, they are not the only ones who recognize the value of chiropractic treatment. Some positive messaging has come down from the highest levels of government. Our prime minister, Stephen Harper, is aware of the importance of improving the quality of neuromusculoskeletal health for all Canadians.  He said so in written words of greeting to delegates at the historic Canadian Chiropractic Convention in Vancouver. Additionally, a video message from Tony Clement, federal minister of health, was played during the convention kickoff. Clement noted that chiropractic, as one of the largest primary contact health-care professions, should be used “at the front end of our system.”  Furthermore, he added, “You have an important role to play in the early diagnosis and prevention of musculoskeletal disorders as well as the promotion of healthy and active lifestyles.”

“It was in Canada, for Canada, and brought home one message of unity.”  This feedback, submitted by a convention delegate, conveys the essence of the convention, which was sponsored by the Canadian Chiropractic Association and all the provincial associations.  Providing a mirror for the Canadian profession to take a look at itself and its future, the event was superbly orchestrated, enthusiastic, thought-provoking, self-revealing and even entertaining. A description is found inside in the article entitled “Positive Energy at Vancouver.” 

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Just as heavy rains on the West Coast were bringing about a boil-water advisory that affected two million people, more than 600 delegates arrived to participate in the conference. Many of the faces were youthful, fittingly representative of the next generation that will be required to assume leadership positions within the profession.

In his presentation, Dr. Scott Haldeman noted that for the sake of survival “the average chiropractor” must come to the table to take part in the evolving collective conversation.

The ongoing conversation that is Canadian Chiropractor magazine has this year marked its 10th anniversary.  In the May 1996 inaugural issue, the editor called for “more open and honest dialog” in order for the profession to achieve its full potential.  The first cover was intended to symbolize the past, present and future of chiropractic.

Coming up in our February 2007 issue, we will be pleased to highlight the winner of the 2006 Independent Chiropractor of the Year Award.  Congratulations to Dr. Peter Amlinger who has been selected for this honour by readers who voted.

The staff at Canadian Chiropractor extends wishes for a safe and happy holiday season, as we enter the future together in the seventh year of the 21st century, chiropractic’s 112th year of existence.

A further suitable seasonal message can be borrowed from celebrity speaker Ethan Zohn, who suggested to chiropractors in the convention audience that they “See the hope that is born in someone else’s eyes because of something you’ve been able to do for them.”•


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