October 2004
JVSR study reviews chiropractic efforts at 9‑11 rescue sites
On 9‑11‑01 ‑‑ when
America was wounded and needed healing ‑‑ doctors of chiropractic were among
the first health care providers at the disaster sites.
The New York
Chiropractic leadership coordinated with the American Red Cross to
credential some 1,500 doctors from state, national, and international
associations. Chiropractors worked at five relief sites, including one just
yards from the rubble of the Twin Towers, and gave adjustments around the
clock. By May 30, 2002, more than $1.5 million in chiropractic services had
been donated.
An article published in
the current Journal of Vertebral Subluxation Research (JVSR), a
peer‑reviewed, scientific journal, examines the massive effort put forth by
chiropractors during this period, and the impact their service had on relief
workers.
Madeline Behrendt, DC,
Associate Editor of JVSR and co‑author of the article "Chiropractic
Rescue and the American Tragedy: The Chiropractic Relief Effort at Ground
Zero" states: "This article reflects chiropractic's commitment to never
forget the 40,000 workers and volunteers who provided rescue, recovery, and
restoration services at the WTC disaster site. In addition, it serves to
promote the spirit of public service in future generations of
chiropractors."
The report expresses
the hope, hurt, and healing that was part of the day‑to‑day reality of the
relief efforts, and shows vividly how popular chiropractic care was among
rescuers and workers. Chiropractic sites were packed with those wanting
adjustments, even at 3 a.m., and at times were so crowded they had to be
closed by the Fire Marshal.
Exhausted workers
streamed to the sites during their breaks and after their shifts to get
adjusted. John Przybylak, DC, co‑author of the article, notes that many
State Troopers didn't want to remove their bullet‑proof vests during the
procedure. "They were guessing that my hands could penetrate where bullets
couldn't reach," Dr. Przybylak says. The workers reactions to the care
included more than deep breaths and sighs. Often, they shared stories with
the doctors about what they had experienced, or about people who were
missing.
According to the
article, a University of Delaware research paper commentary on volunteers
and disaster services specifically recognized the chiropractic volunteer
contingent for its smooth collaboration with officials and others at the
scene, producing no management or logistical problems.
Chiropractic volunteers
were exposed to environmental toxins and heavy metals at the site and have
been contacted to participate in the World Trade Center Worker Health
Survey.
"From an event that
produced so much pain, the American spirit rose up and responded with great
heart and community," Dr. Behrendt commented. "Chiropractic is honored to
have been a formal part of this successful response. Chiropractors have also
served in other hostile environments, including in military bases overseas
providing chiropractic services for their comrades in times of war."
This article is the
first in a special issue of JVSR devoted to "Chiropractic's Impact in
Society." Topics of upcoming articles include: missions for the homeless,
working with battered women, the link between spinal health and mental
health (specifically anxiety), addiction, and chiropractic's role in the
creative class.
Shortly after
publication of the report, the World Chiropractic Alliance, publisher of
JVSR, distributed a press release announcing the story to a major health
news wire service. "We feel it is vital that the public learn of the many
and diverse contributions doctors of chiropractic make in our society,"
stated WCA President Terry A. Rondberg, DC.
Abstracts for JVSR
research reports, as well as subscriptions to the electronic journal are
available at www.jvsr.com
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