Chiropractic + Naturopathic Doctor • June 2018 • From The Editor

While I’m more familiar with the benefits of chiropractic and aware of the scope of practice (versus my consumer-level knowledge previously), I had until recently, never visited one.

It was only a couple of days into my new role and speaking with industry experts and board members that I realized I actually did have something to gain from chiropractic treatment. Specifically, co-management between dentists and chiropractors.

About five or six years ago, without warning, my jaw started to lock. I distinctly remember eating (of all things) a piece of toast, feeling a huge “pop” and then all of a sudden, my jaw wouldn’t move. I instantly panicked; the experience left me in tears, and pain. Unsure of what to do, I Googled, took the advice of “try to relax,” and after probably only a minute or two (which felt like a lot longer), I could move my jaw normally, but for a few hours after, my jaw felt tight, sore, and “out of place.”

My next dentist appointment, the hygienist noticed the clicking in my joint. Stress, and grinding my teeth at night most likely contributed to my TMJ pain – I was ordered a mouthguard, and that was it. But it left me feeling disappointed overall that I was given no other direction, or options. Imagine if my dentist had a working relationship with my area’s chiropractor, and how different of an experience it could have been. I urge you to take a look at our TMD feature on page 14.

In other news, I would like to extend my congratulations to Dr. Jason Busse, who was announced as OCA’s 2017 Chiropractor of the year. Former editor for Canadian Chiropractor Mari-Len De Guzman, sat down with Dr. Busse to discuss medical marijuana and the current research happening at the Michael G. DeGroote Centre for Medicinal Cannabis Research. You can read the Q+A on page 9.

I would also like to congratulate Dr. Shawn Thistle, recipient of the OCA’s Dr. Michael Brickman Heart & Hands Award. His usual “Research review” column is on page 26.

Lastly, with the release of my first issue behind me, I’d also like to extend a warm thank you to those of you who have reached out with your comments and concerns after the release of the May issue.

With the summer days upon us, I hope you take some time from your busy schedules to relax and enjoy.