History and Background

• Recognize the historical emergence of spinal manipulation (SMT) throughout numerous time periods and among different professions
• Outline the development of the chiropractic profession from the late 1800s to modern day
• Briefly review existing and historical models of spinal manipulative therapy (SMT)

What’s that sound?

• Distinguish cavitation from tribonucleation and explore the relevance of the popping sound with SMT.

 Mechanisms

• Integrate the concept of mechanotransduction into your understanding and appraisal of SMT mechanisms
• Outline different ways methods to provide mechanical stimulation during chiropractic treatment
• Explain what the evidence tells us about joint motion, gapping and location of popping sounds with SMT
• Explore contemporary areas of scientific inquiry into the neurophysiologic mechanism(s) of action for high-velocity spinal manipulation
• Describe how SMT may influence pain modulation
• Critique the evidence relating to the influence of SMT on blood biomarkers and immunity
• Discuss the potential brain and sensorimotor functional impacts of SMT
• Appreciate the relevance of spinal stiffness and the potential impact of SMT on spinal biomechanics
• Summarize existing evidence relating to the SMT and muscle function.

Clinical Considerations

• Describe clinical factors that could influence how SMT exerts its effect(s).
• Discuss existing evidence on the dose-response relationship between SMT and clinical outcomes.
• Recognize the importance of contextual factors, patient expectations and comfort in driving positive clinical outcomes.
• Briefly summarize existing research on studies evaluating SMT for non-spinal conditions.

Course Conclusion

• Propose an integrated, conceptual model of how SMT may exert its effects for our patients.
• Recognize that chiropractic care helps patients via many aspects of the clinical encounter.