Anquonette Stiles DC, MPH - Investing in the Future of Chiropractic
Originally published: 2025-09-07
The Foundation for Vertebral Subluxation (FVS) is dedicated to expanding the research database on vertebral subluxation, ensuring that the chiropractic profession remains scientifically rigorous and true to its core principles. As part of this mission, the Best Practices Initiative serves as a cornerstone for advancing evidence-informed chiropractic care while also investing in the next generation of chiropractors, the students who will shape the future of the profession.
A key component of this initiative is the establishment of the Sherman College Research Fellows, a group of 5-7 committed student researchers who are actively engaged in systematic reviews and literature compilations related to the Foundation’s Best Practices Initiative. Their work is essential in strengthening the scientific foundation for the management of subluxation and providing critical evidence to support chiropractic’s role in healthcare.
Building a Lasting Research Legacy
Anquonette Stiles DC, MPH has been leading the Foundation for Vertebral Subluxation’s Best Practices Initiative for several years now. In her previous role as Research Fellow and Project Manager, she oversaw the Sherman College Research Fellows and other research assistants, coordinating the systematic review of chiropractic literature on vertebral subluxation. By implementing a “train the trainers” approach, she developed an ongoing research team committed to continuously updating the evidence base, ensuring that Best Practice Guidelines remain current and impactful.
With her recent appointment as the Executive Director of the Foundation and Alan Brewster DC’s appointment as the new Research Fellows & Project Manager this will allow this team to expand its efforts. Specifically engaging in communication about the initiative and the research it produces with the Foundation’s stakeholders.
"This work will continue to advance the Foundation’s goal of developing comprehensive, evidence-informed guidelines that not only support clinical practice but also influence health policy in a rapidly evolving professional landscape," Dr. Stiles explained.
The initiative goes beyond gathering data—it is about establishing a long-term research infrastructure that sustains the chiropractic profession’s credibility and growth. The research conducted through this initiative plays a vital role in ensuring that subluxation-based chiropractic care remains validated, recognized, and widely accepted as a critical pillar.
A Vision for the Future
Reflecting on her experience with the Foundation for Vertebral Subluxation’s research initiatives, Dr. Stiles shared:
"Being part of the FVS's research initiatives has profoundly strengthened my commitment to a holistic approach in chiropractic care, blending scientific rigor with the profession's time-honored principles. I am proud to help guide a future where the management of vertebral subluxation is both clearly validated and widely accepted as a critical pillar of healthcare."
She also noted the personal and professional growth that has come from leading this effort:
"My time with the guidelines project and the Foundation's research initiatives has been a profoundly rewarding journey. I had the privilege to contribute strategic leadership and vision, bridging traditional chiropractic philosophy with modern, evidence-based research. Engaging in this work not only deepened my professional growth but also reinforced my commitment to advancing a scientifically rigorous and holistic approach to chiropractic care."
The student fellows at Sherman have a unique opportunity to see the inner workings of developing literature databases and quality developed research. A current Sherman student and research fellow, Aquil L. Holden, DC2B shared:
“It's the little things that hold a big impact and that's what attracted me to the Foundation for Vertebral Subluxation Research. Although many of us see chiropractic in action, very few know how it works and the incredible research that supports it. Being a part of the Foundation for Vertebral Subluxation Research helps me understand and appreciate just that.”
Building a Lasting Legacy
The work these students do isn’t just academic — it’s shaping the future of the profession. Through their participation, FVS Fellows contribute to the creation of a comprehensive, evidence-rich database that will guide chiropractic policy, education, and practice for years to come. This data is essential for demonstrating the clinical significance and positive outcomes associated with subluxation-based chiropractic care.
The Fellowship Program also fosters mentorship and professional development. Students work directly with experienced researchers, gaining insights into the collaborative process of research publication and the importance of contributing to the scientific literature. This immersive experience helps cultivate a research mindset among future chiropractors, encouraging lifelong involvement in advancing chiropractic science.
A Grateful Acknowledgment
The Foundation for Vertebral Subluxation expresses deep gratitude to Dr. Stiles, the Sherman College Research Fellows and all the student researchers who have committed their time and effort to advancing chiropractic research. Their contributions are instrumental in preserving and strengthening the profession, ensuring that the principles of chiropractic remain rooted in science while staying true to their origins.
The investment in research today is shaping the future of chiropractic, and thanks to the dedication of these students and leaders like Dr. Stiles, the profession will continue to thrive in both clinical practice and policy.
Your donations go directly to supporting these future leaders in chiropractic. Thank you!
For more information about the Foundation for Vertebral Subluxation and its initiatives, visit
https://vertebralsubluxation.org/
