Parker Life: January 2012

January 2012

w w w . p a r k e r . e d u

ReseaRch Paving the Way to a Better Future

for the Chiropractic Profession

PLUs: Piecing Together the Puzzle of Wellness and Prevention

Parker

Hello and thank you for joining us for this newest edition

of ParkerLife!

Progress is made one step at a time – and charting a course for

the future is simpler when those who share the same dreams

and goals surround you.

For this reason, I am pleased to announce that this issue of

ParkerLife is centered on the important role research holds

for our profession. Not just for the benefits it provides us as

healers, but also for the advantages it affords those we treat.

Patients want to be well-informed about their health and

wellness. They look to us as experts. They rightly demand that

their care plans be based on strong data and solid research –

and they absolutely can appreciate the support of our findings

through this same research.

I hope you will investigate the many ways research encourages

our progress and that you will be inspired to move forward

confidently. Thank you and enjoy this edition of ParkerLife.

With Love,

Fabrizio Mancini, DC, FICC, FACC, FICA

President, Parker University

PresidentFrom the

In thIs Issuealumni events 2011 ............................................2

homecoming 2011 Recap ................................3

Is Research Important to the Practicing chiropractors and Their Patients? ............4

Progress is Well In-hand .................................5

Piecing Together the Puzzle of Wellness and Prevention ..........................6

embracing change: an exploration of Pediatric chiropractic .................................8

Live strong – Practice Wisely .................... 10

Pioneers in Pain Management .................. 11

Dreams Built Upon change ......................... 12

Recognizing Greatness ...................................13

2540 Walnut Hill Lane | Dallas, TX 75229972.438.6932 | www.parker.edu

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Questions? comments? We’d love to hear from [email protected]

IDeasJasmin adams

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aRTJacob Patrick

Graphic Designer

Igniting Passion. Transforming Lives.

ParkerUniversity ParkerUniv

2012 ParkerLife Magazine | www.parker.edu2

ALuMni EvEnTs2011

January 13Las Vegas, NV

September 23Vancouver, Canada

April 8Orlando, FL

September 24Seattle, WA

June 11Austin, TX

October 21Dallas Awards Luncheon

Pictures from all events are available at www.facebook.com/parkercollegealumni.

Join us in 2012 as we travel to Las Vegas, Oklahoma, Florida, Colorado, Arizona, and throughout our home state of Texas.

Parker alumni association 2012 executive committee

Dr. Vincent Scheffler ’07 – President

Dr. Steven Brooks ’99 – Vice President

Dr. Scott Garber ’02 – Treasurer

Interested in serving your fellow graduates? Visit www.parker.edu/alumni-board-news to learn

how you can be a leader. elections begin in May.

June 18Melbourne, Australia

October 21Dallas Octoberfest

Welcome to the alumni association!Recognizing our newest Lifetime Members from 2011

100% of a Lifetime Member’s fee goes to the Alumni Association Endowment Fund. Membership is available to any person who believes in supporting this fund. Future editions of ParkerLife will continue to recognize new members. To become a Lifetime Member, contact Timothy A. Gunn, Director of Alumni Relations, at 888.PR.aLUMs or complete the membership form on page 16.

222. Dr. John Minardi223. Dr. John J. Madden ’02224. Dr. Kelly czajkoski ‘99

Spring 2012 Career Expo

June 1Find a Position. Fill a Position.

On Campus. 11am-2pm

HOMECOMinG

Be sure to save the date now for our next Parker homecoming!

October 26-28, 2012

October 21-23 marked another move forward for Parker University, when we celebrated Parker Homecoming 2011. This first Homecoming held on campus since 2005 was a busy, fun, and educational three days. Over 475 attendees arriving from 27 states, three Canadian provinces, and Germany caused the celebration to be a wonderful success.

Those in attendance enjoyed three days of networking events, educational programs, and exhibits. Sponsored by over 25 organizations, including Standard Process and NCMIC, tools of the trade, promotional products, and keys to successful business practice were well-displayed and readily available for those who visited the exhibition.

As part of the Homecoming curriculum, participants were able to gain valuable experience and knowledge through classes covering a broad range of topics. Ground Rounds, facilitated by Michael Hall, DC, FIACN, reviewed case presentations and discussion from a diagnostic, technique, and neurological perspective. Parker alumni Jeff Rockwall, DC ’97, presented Enhancing Postural Stability, which was geared toward both DCs and massage therapists with a focus on soft tissue techniques to enhance postural stabilization. Many DCs were able to obtain Texas-required CE credits with the standing room

only course Medicare– Causes, Effects, and Clinical Solutions, as presented by Doug Sanford, DC and Lisa Speaks, CMC. Attendees were also afforded the opportunity to easily obtain the available 20-hours of continuing education credits with a repeating class schedule that provided the ability for guests

to attend most classes without making the difficult choice of missing a great presentation.

Besides the great educational opportunities, Parker Homecoming 2011 included multiple special events with plentiful options to enjoy food, fun, and fellowship. On Friday afternoon, the Alumni Association held an awards luncheon honoring the 2011 Young Alumni, International

Alumni, Alumni of the Year, and the Lifetime Achievement award recipients.

On Friday evening, the Parker courtyard was transformed for Oktoberfest. This free event served alumni, students, and friends from all generations grilled bratwurst on a stick and other tasty finger-foods, while adults were offered the chance to sample two imported German beers.

Parker University was very pleased with the response to the exciting occassion and would like to extend gratitude to all who joined in making Parker Homecoming 2011 a sensational event!

hats-OFF tO


Over the years and even very recently, I have read internet comments and posts on Facebook by chiropractors who make claims that are unfounded and often taken out of context. This usually occurs because the DC has not yet learned how to critically analyze what he/she is reading, and assumes that because it is written somewhere, that it is truth. When inquiring about where the DCs gets their research information, we recognize that a very small percentage of DCs subscribe to any reputable journal, and if they are subscribed, rarely read the journal in its entirety. Recognizing that the practicing chiropractor has little time to read entire research studies, Dr. Ron Rupert, dean of research for Parker University, spent thousands of hours creating ChiroAccess (www.chiroaccess.com).

Recognizing that the practicing chiropractor has little time to read entire research studies, Dr. Ron Rupert, dean of research for Parker university, spent thousands of hours creating Chiroaccess

“The primary mission of ChiroAccess is to disseminate accurate user-friendly information to practicing chiropractors, faculty, and students of chiropractic in order to ensure the best possible patient care. Our patients deserve no less.” Dr. Rupert goes on to say: “Literally thousands of individuals are responsible for this site as over 400,000 research articles published by thousands of researchers have been indexed in the database MANTIS. These articles serve as the building blocks for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment clinical reviews that appear here.”

There is no doubt in my mind that every chiropractor wants to deliver quality care to their patients, after all that’s who we are, isn’t it? Patient-centered care is a term that is widely used in our lexicon, and one that is important to live for the profession to thrive.

Reading current research is valuable to the DC and provides increased value to the patient/

practice member, no matter what philosophy you live as a chiropractor. Sharing research information with patients enhances the doctor-patient relationship because it increases the patients’ confidence in the doctor. When your patients know that you are cutting-edge, not only by your skills and the professionalism you display, but also by the information you share, they become great ambassadors for your practice and for the profession. Being on the cutting-edge of understanding research also improves interdisciplinary relationships. It is imperative to remember that knowledge is power, and your knowledge increases your capacity to communicate with everyone, especially when you can quote recent high quality research during your oral or written presentations. If you run a practice that requires you to write narratives or medical legal reports, imagine the strength of your opinion when you can reference recent research that supports your diagnosis and prognosis.

I have prided myself on practicing principle-based chiropractic for 25 years, and during that time and still to this day, I read The Green Books and I read research. The two are not mutually exclusive. To the contrary, I have found that both have enhanced my capacity to be a great chiropractor and deliver high quality patient-centered care to my practice members.

I encourage all of you to spend time, energy, and effort to read research and to financially support research initiatives.

Dr. Lamarche serves as the vice president of clinics, research, continuing education, and seminars at Parker University. Prior to his role with Parker, he owned a successful practice in Timmins, Ontario for more than 25 years.

For questions or comments, e-mail Dr. Lamarche at [email protected].

Is ReseaRch IMPORTanT

Gilles Lamarche Bs, Dc (canada)

to the practicing chiropractors and their patients?

2012 ParkerLife Magazine | www.parker.edu 5

Progress is

Well In-Hand

People of all ages and walks of life often find they need a helping hand to progress toward the next level. Athletes need trainers, patients need healing, relatives need relaxation, and even companion animals need some TLC. Fortunately, the advanced programs at Parker University’s School of Massage Therapy put progress in the hands of those who help others.

Licensed massage therapists attending the Parker University School of Massage Therapy can develop to their full potential while improving the lives of their clients with progressive education in the fields of sports massage, medical massage, and animal massage.

Beginning in 2012, Parker’s Sports Massage Program delves into the well-defined concepts of working with athletes and other active populations using appropriate soft-tissue manipulation approaches, a deeper understanding of sports-related injuries and their evaluation, and a greater knowledge of the form and function of musculoskeletal structures of the human body and how they are affected by sports massage therapy.

The Medical Massage Program, already in place at Parker and with new aspects arriving in summer of 2012, provides an educational track for licensed

massage therapists with the purpose of preparing them for specialized work in a health care facility. Future clients will benefit from the massage therapists’ sophisticated learning of clinical pathology, related anatomy, and orthopedics. And, improvements in pain management and quality of life will be experienced with advanced therapeutic techniques of hospital-based, visceral, lymphatic, prenatal/infant, and geriatric massage.

Even furry friends will soon have the ability to experience the comfort and care afforded their people-partners, when studies in animal massage start in September. Applying the same principles used in handling humans and a firmer grasp on animal anatomy will provide greater quality of life for creatures great and small.

Parker University’s School of Massage Therapy is poised to provide a better life, healthier, happier homes, and a dedication to progress always on the mind and ever well in-hand.

For more information about the Parker University school of Massage Therapy, visit www.parkermassageschool.com or call 800.971.8096.


Enhanced quality of life and prevention of many chronic diseases are often attributable to modifying behavioral ‘risk

factors’ like tobacco use, sedentary lifestyle, alcohol consumption, and poor eating habits; and although emphasis on prevention through health promotion (HP) and education has been recommended for decades, it has failed to reduce many of the threats related to premature illness and death.

Doctors of chiropractic (DCs) have a distinct advantage in the support of health promotion and increased overall well-being of their patients; and rightly so, as chiropractic principles emphasize wellness, prevention, and HP. By seeing their patients on a frequent basis, DCs have ample opportunity to advise them on positive behavior changes. And although the 2007 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) reports about 45% of the respondents who used chiropractic care did so for wellness and disease prevention, there is still room for improvement.

One suggestion is following the consensus statements on chiropractic “best practices” for children and for older adults that advocate chiropractors providing counseling on HP and disease prevention consistent with U.S. Preventive Services Task Force recommendations.

health Promotion includes general strategies to enhance quality of life, prevent disease, trauma, and illness including ergonomics, psychosocial supports, exercise, diet, and nutrition, including lifestyle counseling and health screening

This is important because patients who present with acute neck and back pain tend to have a higher occurrence of co-morbid health conditions than the general public. Moreover, limiting associated illness and disability from back conditions is a focus area under Healthy People Guidelines.

Knowing that effective HP and public health interventions can have a positive, dramatic effect on people and the health care system, especially during this era of persistent health care crises (increased illness/death and burgeoning cost), the Council on Chiropractic Education (CCE) considers HP to include “General strategies to enhance quality of life, prevent disease, trauma, and illness including ergonomics, psychosocial supports, exercise, diet, and nutrition including lifestyle counseling and health screening…”

Following this approach can help patients to maintain and improve health, reduce disease risks, and manage chronic illnesses; which in turn, can help reduce health care costs. Reassuring are reports from the Practice Analysis of Chiropractic (2010) indicating a high-level of HP practices by DCs. From a self-reported, self-efficacy perspective, DCs give advice on exercise, balance, diet/nutrition, and weight maintenance.

Doctors of chiropractic should be congratulated on these efforts and gain confidence from the ‘cue-to-action’ role, as reports from NHIS (2006) document a very high-degree of compliance (over the 90th percentile) among patients when advised by DCs on health-related outcomes. DCs are in a position to influence positive change in the lives of their patients.

A focus on chiropractic education and training programs for doctors of chiropractic indicate a bright future on the horizon. Numerous attempts have been made and are ongoing to design public health and HP courses in chiropractic colleges, and intervention programs to improve the advising role of interns in teaching clinics. Since 2006, the CCE has put in place standards for the delivery of HP and wellness at U.S. chiropractic colleges – ensuring those DCs that their patients are poised for greater health and wellbeing.

These CCE standards include demonstration of the ability to determine how lifestyle, behavior, and other factors affect the wellness of patients, as well as the ability to demonstrate the skill and knowledge to communicate changes in lifestyle that are conducive to better health; and the scope of topics

PIeCIng tOgetheR the PuzzLe OF

WELLnEss& PREvEnTiOnharrison ndetan Bs, Ms, MPh


covered has recently been expanded to include areas such as fall prevention, balance, domestic violence prevention, and screening for adverse drug events.

By utilizing health behavior theories clinicians, researchers, or educators may derive more benefits by designing interventions targeting healthy behavior

Reports indicate significant improvements among chiropractic students being better prepared to serve their patients, with an increase in perceived relevance of HP to chiropractic practice and increased motivation to learn the material as a foundation for clinical practice. Although a study assessed very high levels of intention of chiropractic interns regarding the use of HP in practice, it is noted that regular and special influencers like DCs in the field are powerful predictors of future HP practice. Basically, it is up to the doctor of chiropractic to facilitate the patients’ health and wellness progress.

A prevention/wellness model of care can be proposed to predict the future grown of chiropractic– a field previously noted as traditionally regarded as a wellness profession. As primary contact practitioners, or gatekeepers to the health care industry for their patients, the responsibilities of DCs include that they serve as a relevant information source when it comes to reducing health risks, and that DCs may effectively achieve disease intervention and prevention by participating in the health education of those they treat.

health behavior and hP theories draw upon various disciplines such as psychology, sociology, anthropology, consumer behavior, and marketing

By utilizing health behavior theories clinicians, researchers, or educators may derive more benefits by designing interventions targeting healthy behavior. Using theory as a foundation for program planning and development is consistent with the current emphasis on using evidence-based interventions in public health, behavioral medicine, and preventive medicine. And health behavior

theories present a systematic way of understanding events or situations, and can be applied to a broad variety of situations.

Health behavior and HP theories draw upon various disciplines such as psychology, sociology, anthropology, consumer behavior, and marketing. This diversity in perspectives gives planners the tools for moving beyond intuition to designing and evaluating health behavior/interventions based on understanding of behavior. This helps planners identify the most-suitable target audiences, methods for fostering change, and outcomes for evaluation.

Theory can also help DCs and planners explain the dynamics of health behaviors, including processes for changing them, and the influences of the many forces that affect health behaviors, including social and physical environments. Apart from explaining “why”, “what”, and “how” health problems should be addressed, health theories can also help identify which indicators should be monitored and measured during program evaluations.

Investigators or practitioners using theory develop a better understanding of realistic program outcomes that drives the planning process. The success and effectiveness of many interventions in other programs depend on using theories and strategies that are appropriate to a particular situation. Because of these indicators, chiropractic professionals should apprise themselves with the working knowledge of basic health theories such as motivational interviewing and the stages of change theory.

To learn more about expanding your practice through health and wellness counseling, contact Parker University continuing education by visiting www.parker.edu/ce-calendar.

Ndetan is a graduate from the University of Buea in Cameroon. He is one of the masterminds in the Parker University Research Institute. Since 2004, he has worked as a research associate and biostatistician with Parker.

PREvEnTiOn


General consensus seems to point in the direction that pediatric chiropractic is under-utilized. In fact, many doctors of chiropractic still regard this area of practice as a ‘no-spin-zone’… a policy which could cost DCs a stake in the still rich avenues for expansion available in the field. A focus on increased patient awareness, a broadened scope of treatment, and support of advanced research efforts are significant ways DCs can invest in the future of pediatric chiropractic and their own practice profitability.

Although chiropractic care is known to be among the most commonly used Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) care options in the United States, the proportion of CAM-based care provided by DCs to adolescents is surprisingly small. As recently as 2005, Braun and colleagues reported that in a sample of 401 adolescents in an urban ambulatory care center, although 68% had used one or more CAM therapies, only 20.9% had specifically seen a DC at some point in their life. Additionally, a 2006 online survey of youth reported that of the 79% of respondents who reported having used some CAM in their lifetime, only 2.9% of those had seen a DC.

epidemiological data on pain in the pediatric/adolescent population appears to indicate that musculoskeletal pain accounts for almost 65% of all pain reported

Clearly there is untapped potential for practice development within the field of pediatric chiropractic; but interestingly enough, even among DCs that hold a certification requiring two to three years of post-graduate education in the field, less than 40% of their patients are reported to be children under the age of 18. Reports indicate that attention to the more common chief complaints of musculoskeletal pain, and unrecognized treatment options for a variety of conditions, as well as improved general health and

wellness are factors contributing to the slow growth of pediatric chiropractic.

Even though throughout the United States chiropractic care has been reported for pediatric conditions, these general reports show that doctors of chiropractic typically treat children or adolescents for the most common chief complaints of back and spinal pain related to musculoskeletal problems – which is indicative of most services being rendered by DCs to the general patient population.

Epidemiological data on pain in the pediatric/adolescent population appears to indicate that musculoskeletal pain accounts for almost 65% of all pain reported. Also fairly common is idiopathic adolescent spinal pain; and studies have indicated that over 20% of children aged 12-15 years have lower back pain with an even higher one-month prevalence.

With the incidence of chronic musculoskeletal pain peaking at around 14 years of age and, depending on the study referenced, findings of lifetime prevalence of lower back pain among all adolescents ranging from 7-78%, thoracic pain from 9-72% and neck pain possibly less common, there seems to be room for potential expansion of chiropractic services to this group; and with a broadened scope of treatment, probability of increased practice capacity multiplies greatly.

Although it is obvious that patients under 18 years of age that see a DC report the most common chief complaint of back or spinal pain with musculoskeletal problems, it has been suggested that pediatric or adolescent populations may present with a broader variety of complaints, including non-musculoskeletal conditions, especially in younger age groups.

DCs who currently specialize in pediatric care report attracting a spectrum of children presenting with

eMBRacInGchanGe An Exploration of

Pediatric Chiropractic

harrison ndetan Bs, Ms, MPh


non-musculoskeletal conditions that include asthma, birth trauma, colic, constipation, ear infection, head or chest cold, and upper respiratory infections. DCs who wish to expand their pediatric practice are encouraged to explore these treatment areas more thoroughly, and to heed the recommendations of a multidisciplinary panel of experienced clinicians, primarily chiropractors, who reached at least 80% consensus regarding chiropractors’ approach to clinical evaluation, management, co-management, referral, and manual treatment of children.

DCs who currently specialize in pediatric care report attracting a spectrum of children presenting with non-musculoskeletal conditions that include asthma, birth trauma, colic, constipation, ear infection, head or chest cold, and upper respiratory infections

These recommendations were based on both scientific evidence and the clinical experience of panel members, with an important part of their recommendations indicating that DCs should provide more than manual procedures. And, that they should emphasize disease prevention and health promotion including age-appropriate counseling on physical activity, diet, and injury prevention, and that DCs should also encourage a generally healthy lifestyle.

While the panel document recognizes that immunization is an established medical approach to disease prevention, DCs are also advised that if parents ask them for information on the topic of disease prevention, they should be prepared to provide “balanced, evidence-based information from credible sources and/or refer the parents to such resources”.

This specific recommendation, along with numerous recent editorials and reviews, strongly suggests that

more research is needed relative to chiropractic care in this age group. And, although some large national data sets do include chiropractic, detailed information on patient and practice characteristics is often unavailable for analysis.

With adverse events in this specific population seeming rare, the general population remains curious as to how chiropractic care affects children, yearns for studies with scientific rigor that explain the direct mechanisms of action and address safety, and has a keen interest whether practitioners really do address lifestyle issues, wellness, and primary prevention along with referral interactions with other provider groups.

Each of these identifying elements convincingly shows additional research as being needed in a variety of areas such as idiopathic scoliosis common among young children, general characteristics of adolescent patients who see DCs, their reasons for seeking care, and the frequency and duration of that care.

The team of dedicated researchers at Parker University stands prepared to help propel pediatric chiropractic to unprecedented levels. Recognizing that good and meaningful research requires huge financial investments, DCs, agencies, and foundations are invited to capitalize on the prosperous future obtainable by cooperative efforts with the Parker University Research Institute.

For more information on how to contribute to the advanced research of pediatric chiropractic care please contact Gilles Lamarche, Bs, Dc at [email protected].

For more information on pediatric chiropractic care or to attend a continuing education class, please visit www.parker.edu/ce.


Greater health, better wellness, prolonged youth, and increased vitality are the hopes and dreams of countless lives across the globe, and they are also a reliable and steady source of income for virtually recession-proof industries. In a world of magic beans, the next big thing – exotic concoctions, the truth stands simple… everyone wants to know what works and where to find it.

Imagine yourself with tools available to expand treatment to over 2,000 health problems without bottle necking your practice – knowledge gleaned from 50,000 years’ experience, and a general public that is “pre-sold” on your product. Even better, imagine yourself learning these successful treatments from some of the greatest minds and most-experienced hands in the field. And then, recognizing your unprecedented success.

Beginning in January of 2012, Parker University’s continuing education department will present the most promising practice-growth potential since obtaining your doctor of chiropractic – acupuncture chiropractic. World-renown expert, health care practitioner, and educator, Dr. Richard Yennie, alongside Dr. Lawrence D. Beem and Jan SteGermaine, will easily and adeptly propel you into greater proficiency as a healer and will teach you how the “unbeatable combination” of chiropractic and acupuncture will advance your life and the lives of those you treat.

Steeped in the rich history of the Orient, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), and with a healthy dose of common sense, you’ll come to understand how acupuncture’s qi (or the body’s ‘electrical system’) and chiropractic’s tui-na (or structure system) combine to help create Qi-gong – total mind/body healing. From initial introduction to incorporating traditional acupuncture into practice (something Dr. Yennie declares as imperative to progress), you will

finish the program with a strengthened foundation, deeper understanding, and the implements for success.

Convinced that an aspiring acupuncturist would want more evidence than just his personal authority on the subject, Dr. Yennie directs attention to his former student, Dr. Tetsuya Hasegawa, who asserts, “There are many benefits to adding acupuncture to my practice. Since there are demands in acupuncture, my patient volume significantly increased. Acupuncture also helped me to get more results which helped my practice to grow. I learned a lot of conditions that chiropractic can help also can be helped with acupuncture. Dr. Yennie always talks about how to use acupuncture with chiropractic practice, so it was easy for me to apply acupuncture to my chiropractic practice. By adding acupuncture, I enjoy my practice more than ever.”

Dr. Yennie says, “Chiropractic already has good programs… nutrition, education, encouragement...” But he also states that by adding acupuncture to the practice it opens up the “whole scope… the complete profession”. Qi meets tui-na to help create Qi-gong. Or – life energy plus sound structure helps create whole body/mind healing.

As one of the founding members of the original Parker College of Chiropractic, Dr. Yennie is enthusiastic about the direction Parker University has taken by adding acupuncture to the CE curriculum and he repeatedly uses Parker ideals in his list of three keys to success, “Get your chiropractic degree. Learn acupuncture as a sub-specialty, and follow the Parker Practice Management System.” Dr. Yennie is certain of success for one who follows these three keys; and his confidence is contagious.

Become the leader you were born to be. Affect positive, progressive change in the lives of those you treat, and enjoy the stability of centuries-old knowledge as you achieve greater heights in professional success.

For more information or to register, please visit our website at www.parker.edu/ce or call 800.266.4723.

LIVe sTROnGPR aC tICe WIseLy


When one hears of the word cancer and its challenges, it is always appreciated when the word “hope” follows closely. Dr. Xue-Jun Song, MD, PhD, associate director, professor, and senior scientist at the Parker University Research Institute and a team of researchers from the Dallas-based institute have embarked on a journey that can potentially affect the lives of thousands of individuals, and that offers potential ease and relief to those suffering from pain caused by cancer.

[this] new research related to cancer pain could potentially change the way patients receive and tolerate treatment

Dr. Song and his team discovered a molecule that may play a critical role in the development of bone cancer pain. The molecule, identified as EphB1 receptor signaling, presents a target for treating cancer pain; and as outlined in the study led by Dr. Song, and recently published in Cancer Research, a medical journal published by the American Association for Cancer Research, “[This] new research related to cancer pain could potentially change the way patients receive and tolerate treatment”.

Cancer pain poses a major clinical challenge because the use of certain painkillers (such as morphine) is limited by tolerance and concerns related to addiction and side effects. In the recent study, researchers found that altering the EphB1 molecule could also potentially lead to improved tolerance of those painkillers.

By manipulating or blocking the EphB1 molecule through medicine or genetic deletion, the scientists have found that patients with primary bone sarcomas and non-bone primary tumors may experience decreased pain. The recent research follows Parker University Research Institute’s earlier findings related to the EphB molecule.

these findings may open new avenues to relieving the severe pain experienced by patients with cancer or other diseases

“Treating cancer pain continues to be challenging, and the underlying mechanisms behind that pain remain elusive”, said Dr. Song. “These findings may open new avenues to relieving the severe pain experienced by patients with cancer or other diseases.”

In 2011 alone, the American Cancer Society estimates that 1.5 million people in the United States will be diagnosed with cancer, including an estimated 2,810 people diagnosed with bone cancer; and it is encouraging that the research efforts of Dr. Song, who joined Parker University in 1999 as senior scientist, assistant professor, and the head of laboratory of neurobiology in the Parker University Research Institute, have such far-reaching possibilities.

For more information about the study or research collaborations, please call 214.902.3449 or 972.438.6932 ext. 7144.

To fund additional studies on this or other subjects, please contact Gilles Lamarche, Bs, Dc at [email protected].

PIOneeRs In PaIn ManaGeMenT


Dreams Built upon

Life has a way of taking our best-laid plans and turning them into dreams of a different design. Parker University School of Massage Therapy alumna, Shara Day knows this, and she lives it well.

Shara was in the process of obtaining her master’s degree in physical therapy (PT) when a bill was passed requiring PTs to hold a PhD, and she had just missed the cut-off date to be grandfathered into the field with a master’s degree. She states, “I then decided to go to Parker for massage school. I figured if I wanted to go back to school, massage would give me an edge and more knowledge with rehabilitation.”

Massage and chiropractic are like the perfect marriage – they are meant to be together

A former athlete, Ms. Day remarks, “I received sports massages all the time in high school and college and I wouldn’t have survived without them when I played volleyball. When my master’s program didn’t pan out the way I wanted it to, massage was a natural choice for me.”

Armed with her new dream, Shara entered Parker University School of Massage Therapy as a medical massage student, and graduated the program in December of 2008. For the past three years, she has shared her specialty with patients in an area chiropractic clinic, maintained hope to work as an MMT with a sports team, and has been cultivating a new love for working with special needs populations.

“Massage and chiropractic are like the perfect marriage – they are meant to be together,” shares Ms. Day. “Bones are moved by your muscles and if only [chiropractic] adjustments are given when muscles are taut and the antagonist muscles are stretched, [bones are] just going to move back out of alignment. In [opposition], if only massage is

given with no adjustment, nerve impingement can happen. Then your muscles, organs, and body aren’t functioning at their optimum levels. Chiropractic and massage are really some of the best preventative care people can do for themselves.”

Most people don’t know what benefit chiropractic can be for those with special needs, through a combination of adjustments, massage, and nutrition. It’s really exciting to see the quality of life in patients improve

Shara has a broad range of clients that attest to her claims. She sees all different types of cases with the chiropractic patients she treats. Cases of low back pain, stenosis, sacroiliac dysfunction, degenerative joint disease, personal injury events like automobile accidents, fibromyalgia, sports injuries, and a near endless list of other ailments are commonplace for her. It is the special needs population, though, that draws distinctive appeal.

“Most people don’t know what a benefit chiropractic can be for those with special needs, through a combination of adjustments, massage, and nutrition. It’s really exciting to see the quality of life in patients improve,” she notes.

And like a true Parker University alumna she credits her education at the Parker University School of Massage Therapy for where she is today and where she might find more opportunity. With enthusiasm she affirms, “Parker will always play a role in my future! Its standard is something you cannot pass up.”

For more information about the Parker University school of Massage Therapy, visit www.parkermassageschool.com or call 800.971.8096.

Change


rom the generous support of those who believe in the dream of better health and happiness

through chiropractic, greater wellbeing is brought to innumerable lives and the strength of Parker University is fortified.

On October 19, 2011, Parker University unveiled the Donor Wall of Honor to celebrate the contributions, gifts, and pledges provided in support of the Parker mission. Students, patients, and the wellness professionals we serve benefit from the enthusiastic donors who help expand knowledge and health care experiences to realize full potential through a dedicated focus on education, research, and service.

Next updated in January, the Honor Roll includes all gifts and pledges made to Parker University between

September 1, 2010 and October 7, 2011. Perpetual memberships to the Wall are the Dr. James W. Parker Legacy Society and Alumni Association Lifetime members. Corporate donors, Parker Seminar donors, individuals, and both Capital and Gift-in-Kind donors are also reflected on the honor roll; and named scholarships are listed when active.

For more information on the many ways in which you can support Parker visit www.parker.edu/support-parker.

Donate online at www.parker.edu/giving

With so many ways to give, you can impact the future of chiropractic for generations to come.

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Ing gReatness

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strategic Marketing & communications Department Volunteers at Operation Kindness The Strategic Marketing & Communications Department at Parker University has made it their mission to complete a volunteer project each quarter as a team. Their first project was at Operation Kindness, North Texas’ oldest and largest no-kill animal shelter. The team built a memorial wall and two dog runs, walked and bathed dogs and puppies, and spent quality time socializing cats and kittens. Giving back feels great!


Parker ce classes are Outstanding!

Check out 2012’s exciting line-up:FOLLOW-a-LeaDeRFOLLOW-a-LeaDeRFOLLOW-a-LeaDeR

LIVInG LeGacyDebra McKown is like many Parker University students: driven, motivated, and passionate about chiropractic. Born and raised in Ardmore, Oklahoma, Debra graduated

as valedictorian of her high school class in 2006 from Dickson Public Schools, and graduated in May of 2009, as a full-scholarship recipient of East Central Oklahoma University with a bachelor’s degree in biology and minor in chemistry.

Having the benefit of being a life-long chiropractic patient, and following in her father’s footsteps, a 1992 graduate of Parker himself, Debra was accepted to and began her studies at Parker University College of Chiropractic in September 2009.

Speaking of the seemingly natural choice of professions, Debra says, “Being raised by a Parker graduate, Dr. Parker’s philosophy was literally engrained into by my being. I’ve had a front-row seat, so to speak, to see the benefits and enhanced quality of life that chiropractic provides.”

It is this same enhanced quality of life that Debra has experienced on another level during her studies at Parker. “In today’s economic climate, educational costs can be overwhelming”, she states.

Thanks to the Dr. James W. Parker Legacy Scholarship, Debra has had the privilege of receiving further benefit from her hard-work and

commitment to chiropractic. The Dr. James W. Parker Legacy Society plays a vital role in not only preserving the heritage of Parker University, but in taking an active stance in helping future chiropractors achieve their dreams.

As recipient of the award, Debra receives provision for one-half of her tuition at Parker as long as a 3.0 GPA is maintained through each trimester. Debra says, “It is quite an honor to be the recipient of the Dr. James W. Parker Legacy Scholarship. Not only will it significantly reduce the cost of my graduate education; it motivates me academically to be the best I can be... Dr. Parker’s scholarship notably minimizes the stress and pressure of the financial burden, thus allowing me to concentrate more on my education.”

Debra understands that the road to success can contain many obstacles. “I choose not to look at them as obstacles, but as challenges that must be conquered to enable me to be more successful in my career and life. I always accept these challenges head-on and try to remain positive; reflecting on many of Dr. Parker’s philosophical teachings such as, ‘If it is to be, it is up to me’,” she says – in fine example of the same tenets fostered by the Dr. James W. Parker Legacy scholarship that bring enduring life to Parker University.

To learn how you can help students achieve their dreams, contact Ben hart at 214.902.3482 or [email protected].

Parker University alumni can light the way for future doctors of chiropractic by participating in a shadowing program created for students. This unique program offers many benefits to both aspiring DCs and the established doctors who share in the program.

By following a doctor of chiropractic, students gain a real-life look at the inner-workings of a chiropractic office from front to back. And since offices focus on different disciplines like pediatric, sports, geriatrics, and accident injury, scholars can gain more specialized knowledge. To broaden the learning dynamic, DCs in hospital and clinic settings, and those concentrated on different disciplines like physical therapy versus massage therapy provide students an expanded experience.

All the excitement is not just for the students! Doctors of chiropractic gain the advantage of helping promote the profession from the new perspective of educator as they guide students with the experience of life after graduation; and DCs can also reaffirm their chiropractic message with those who follow after them. Help encourage the future of chiropractic with your participation in the Shadowing Program at Parker University, today!

To participate in this program, please contact Casey Moore at [email protected].


Basic 100-hour acupuncture Program Dr. Richard Yennie and team

Six-module series begins January 28-29, 2012

NEW: advanced acupuncture Program Dr. Richard Yennie and team

Six-module series begins January 28-29, 2012

Treatment Options and answers for children with special needs

Dr. Amber Brooks

February 25-26, 2012

animal chiropractic Various Instructors and AVCA Team

Six-module series begins March 8-11, 2012

chiropractic clinical neurologyVarious Instructors

March 10-11, 2012

Parker homecoming 2012 Great Speakers and Exciting Alumni Events

October 26-28, 2012

Online classes are currently available on a wide range of topics at www.parker.edu

Parker ce classes are Outstanding!

Check out 2012’s exciting line-up:

Watch for details coming soon on these favorites and more returning to the Parker campus in 2012:

scoliosis correction series

c.c.s.P® (certified chiropractic sports Physician)

c.c.e.P. (certified chiropractic extremity Practitioner)

IcPa Pediatrics Program

Texas Mandatory Board hours

active care series

summer Relicensure event

For more information call 800.266.4723 or visit us at

www.parker.edu/ce.

FOLLOW-a-LeaDeRFOLLOW-a-LeaDeR


PaRKeR aLUMnI assOcIaTIOn MeMBeRshIP FORMCalendar Year 2012

LIFeTIMe MeMBeR Membership Fee + addt’l donation $1500 + ___________________

$300 due with application – balance may be paid in four (4) consecutive monthly installments. Engraved plaque will be sent when paid in full. 100% of Lifetime Membership fee goes to the Alumni Association Endowment Fund.

Easy Pay Option: Please automatically charge my credit card on the 15th of each month based on the above mentioned payment schedule.

annUaL MeMBeR (Membership Fee* + Addt’l donation)

Parker Graduate (DC=$75, MT=$50) $75/$50 + _______ Recent Graduate (graduated in ’10 or later) $50+__________

Non-Parker Graduate $75 + ___________ Parker Student FREE *25% of fee goes to the Alumni Association Endowment Fund with remaining going to annual budget.

Automatic Renewal: Continue my membership until _________________. I understand my credit card will be kept on file and charged in November of each year. (Service is provided for your convenience and can be cancelled at anytime by calling the Office of Alumni Relations at 888.PR.ALUMS.)

Easy Pay

ID#______________________ PBLCN/1.2012

Please mail or fax completed form to: PARKER ALuMni AssOCiATiOn 2540 Walnut Hill Lane | Dallas, Texas 75229-5668 888.PR.ALuMs | Fax: 214.902.3453

Member name: _________________________________________________________________ Total Enclosed: $_______________________________

Home Address: _______________________________________City: _________________________ state:_________ Zip:_____________________

Phone: _______________________________________ Fax: ________________________ E-Mail:__________________________________

spouse name: _______________________________________ Check to Keep Private

Clinic name: _______________________________________

Address: _______________________________________City: _________________________ state:_________ Zip:_____________________

Phone: _______________________________________ Fax: ________________________ E-Mail:__________________________________

Website: _______________________________________ Check to Keep Private

Credit card number: ____________________________________________________________________ Exp. date:___________________________

visA AMEX MAsTERCARD DisCOvER

Credit card billing address: HOME CLiniC/COMPAnY

name as it appears on card: _______________________________________________ signature: ________________________________________

Please make check payable to Parker University. Membership dues are non-refundable. Check #_______________________________________

sUPPORT PaRKeR UnIVeRsITy TODay!As a nonprofit organization, Parker University needs your support to offer quality education to students, cutting-edge research for the profession, and valuable services to our patients and to the community.

YES! I would like to invest in the future of Parker with a tax deductible gift of:

$5,000 President’s Circle $3,000 Create a Named Scholarship $2,500 Pioneer Partner $1,000 Friend of Parker

$500 $250 $100 Other $ ___________________

I wish to remain anonymous in print.

Donor Title: ______________ First Name: _______________________________ Last Name: _______________________________

Address: ____________________________________________ City: _______________________State: ____ Zip: _______________

Phone: _____________________________________________ E-Mail: __________________________________________________

Please charge my:

VISA AMEX MASTERCARD DISCOVER

Card Number: _______________________________________

Exp. Date: _____________________ Security Code: _______

Give online at www.parker.edu

Mail this form to: Office of Development | Parker University 2540 Walnut Hill Lane | Dallas, TX 75229

Or fax this form to: 214.902.3453

Please charge:

The full amount today.

$________today and send me monthly reminders for the balance.

$________automatically on the 15th of each month until the balance is paid.

QUESTIONS?: Call Ben Hart at 214.902.3482 or e-mail [email protected].

Alumni Association


San Diego, CA May 4-6Paradise Point Resort & SpaIn conjunction with California Chiropractic Association

Chicago, ILJuly 12-14Hyatt Regency McCormick Place

Las Vegas, NVJanuary 10-12, 2013Rio All Suite Hotel and Casino

Toronto, OntarioSeptember 20-22DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Toronto Airport

888.727.5338www.parkerseminars.com

2012 ScheduleA Journey to Becoming a Better You

Become a GTO Pledge by committing to three (3) consecutive North American Parker Seminars.

Enjoy a $635 savings!

For more information, visit our website at www.parkerseminars.comor call 888.727.5338

ParkerSeminars


INJoinDo your part and join the movement that is shaping chiropractic!

Becoming a Parker Ambassador is easy!

1. Visit www.parker.edu/ambassadors

2. Receive your materials by mail and get started!

With chiropractic quickly becoming one of the most demanded health care services, it is up to us to equip the profession with the kind of doctors who will help us keep the chiropractic movement growing in the right direction. And it all depends on the students of today — the ones who will become the doctors of tomorrow.

You can play a direct and vital role in shaping the future of the chiropractic profession by choosing the type of students who will join us in our mission to share chiropractic with the world.

By joining in, you will:

•ShapeLeaders:Helpusshapestudentsintothefuture leaders of the profession

•UnifyChiropractic:Createastronger,moreunified chiropractic profession

•BecomeourPartner:Joinusinrecruitingstudentswho display the qualities that make a successful Parker student and chiropractor

ambassador Program

To learn more about the benefits of this program, visit www.parker.edu/ambassadors

For more information, contact Casey Moore, ambassador coordinator at [email protected].

Igniting Passion. Transforming Lives.

Are you ready to join in?

Documents

Parker Life: January 2012