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Joseph C Keating

Publications and source records attributed to Joseph C Keating.

4 recordsLinked to original sources

Subluxation: dogma or science?

Subluxation syndrome is a legitimate, potentially testable, theoretical construct for which there is little experimental evidence. Acceptable as hypothesis, the widespread assertion of the clinical meaningfulness of this notion brings ridicule from the scientific and health care communities and confusion within the chiropractic profession. We believe that an evidence-orientation among chiropractors requires that we distinguish between subluxation dogma vs. subluxation as the potential focus of clinical research. We lament efforts to generate unity within the profession through consensus statements concerning subluxation dogma, and believe that cultural authority will continue to elude us so long as we assert dogma as though it were validated clinical theory.

Journal Article↗

Several pathways in the evolution of chiropractic manipulation.

Chiropractors' manual methods of healing have diverse origins. Unlike the older traditions of bonesetters, chiropractors apply their techniques to health problems beyond the musculoskeletal system. The ideas of the Palmers were seminal, but innovation has been a prominent characteristic in the evolution of technique, and borrowing of methods between "brand-name" techniques has been common. Manipulative strategies have also been influenced by various instruments for diagnosing (ie, detecting) putative subluxations. Influences from beyond the profession (eg, from osteopathy) are also apparent; chiropractors have not confined themselves to the high-velocity adjustive procedures that marked the profession's inception. Technique has been a source of controversy within the profession, but little has been done to determine the relative merits of various manual assessment and intervention procedures. The proprietary nature of many chiropractic methods has promoted both innovation and secrecy. Extensive research will be needed to separate the chaff from the wheat.

Chiropractic↗