“All chiropractors in this country are actually seeing addicted patients whether they know it or not,” he notes. “It is estimated that about 20 per cent of the population has an addiction (4) and the number may, in fact, be much higher. Our goal is to train doctors of chiropractic in an in-depth understanding of addiction, and the science behind it, as well as techniques and protocols they can implement within their practices.” “Of course,” Canteenwala stresses, “none of the work is ‘stand-alone’ and these people must be sent to drug rehab concurrently.” A CALL TO AWARENESS In Canada, the average medical or chiropractic student receives very little training in addictions. As well, there is a real pau- city of information getting out to those in primary care. This is something that needs to change in order to take care of one of society’s biggest problems. In March 2008, a new diplomate program in addiction will begin for chiropractors in Orlando Florida. The 300-hour course will lead doctors to an in-depth understanding of this devastating dis-ease. “It is imperative that chiropractors dis- tinguish themselves in the fi eld of wellness and state of well- being,” says Dr. Canteenwala, “and I believe this is the popula- tion we need to start with.” “Politicians, law makers and justice offi cials are looking des- perately for an answer to today’s massive societal problem of ad- diction. Chiropractors have an essential role in helping to solve this problem!” References: 1. Molecular Psychiatry, Volume 6, Supplement, 1 February 2001, Nature Publishing Group. 2. Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, November 2000, Volume 32, Supplement. 3. Psychology Today Online, 14 July 2006, Last Reviewed 12 Oct 2007, Article ID: 4106. 4. Alternative Medicine, May 1999, Article “ Beating Addiction.” For chiropractic stories, news, events, blogs and more, visit Spine, Pelvis and Posture Analysis Ideal for chiropractors ▶ DEVELOP YOUR DIAGNOSTICS ▶ PLAN YOUR TREATMENTS ▶ DOCUMENT THE OUTCOMES ▶ FAST ▶ CONTACTLESS ▶ RADIATION-FREE Biometrix Medica a Canadian Company [email protected] 1.866.780.0525 www.canadianchiropractor.ca www.canadianchiropractor.ca www.biometrixmedica.com CANADIAN CHIROPRACTOR | FEBRUARY 2008 • 39
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