The Chiropractic Chronicle's Top Ten Stories of 2024: Milestones, Controversies, and the Fight for Integrity
Originally published: 2025-01-04
As 2024 ends and 2025 begins, The Chiropractic Chronicle is proud to present a countdown of the Top Ten Chiropractic Stories that defined the profession in 2024. From groundbreaking achievements to sobering challenges, this list encapsulates the triumphs, controversies, and evolving dynamics within chiropractic. Here’s a recap of the most pivotal moments of the year:
1. NZCC Achieves Historic Accreditation from IACE
Revolutionizing Chiropractic Education The New Zealand College of Chiropractic (NZCC) became the first institution to receive accreditation from the International Agency for Chiropractic Evaluation (IACE). This groundbreaking achievement underscored a shift toward diverse and subluxation-centered accreditation, breaking the monopoly held by the Council on Chiropractic Education (CCE) and offering a beacon of hope for philosophical diversity in chiropractic education.
2. Chiropractic Freedom Coalition
Uniting for Freedom and Integrity Over 50 organizations banded together to form the Chiropractic Freedom Coalition, challenging the monopolistic control of the CCE, NBCE, and FCLB. This unprecedented alliance highlighted the profession’s demand for diversity in education, licensing, and regulation, and marked a critical step toward dismantling the “Chiropractic Cartel.”
3. Spike Proteins and Chiropractic
Addressing a Post-Pandemic Public Health Crisis Dr. Amy Haas, DC, Ph.D., spotlighted the vascular risks associated with SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins in her landmark paper. Chiropractors were called to the front lines of this emerging crisis, tasked with identifying vascular compromise in patients—a development that emphasized the profession’s role in holistic care.
Chiropractic’s Role in Immune Function Another study led by Dr. Haas investigated chiropractic’s potential influence on immune function. The research not only reinforced chiropractic’s broader health benefits but also invigorated discussions around its role in enhancing systemic health.
A Turning Point in Accountability Revelations about the National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) revealed significant internal turmoil, including lawsuits, resignations, and financial mismanagement. This exposed the vulnerabilities of a long-standing monopoly and called for greater transparency and reform in chiropractic testing.
A Bold Move for Autonomy The Vermont Board of Chiropractic made headlines by exiting the Federation of Chiropractic Licensing Boards (FCLB), challenging the status quo of centralized control. This decision signaled a push toward regulatory independence and raised questions about the FCLB’s role in the profession.
Exposing Systemic Issues The high-profile lawsuit by Dr. Keita Vanterpool against the FCLB laid bare systemic discrimination and conflicts of interest within chiropractic governance. While the verdict favored the FCLB, the case shed light on the secretive practices of the Chiropractic Summit Group and the entrenched power dynamics that stifle diversity in the profession.
A Blow to Pediatric Chiropractic The Australian Chiropractic Board reinstated its ban on spinal manipulation for infants, capitulating to medical pressure despite overwhelming evidence of chiropractic safety and efficacy. This decision exposed the ongoing struggle for pediatric chiropractic care amid unscientific medical bias.
Reform in the Face of Mismanagement Arizona’s chiropractic board faced a scathing audit revealing misconduct, abuse of power, and failure to protect the public. Legislative reforms sought to dismantle the board’s rogue behavior, signaling the need for accountability and ethical governance.
10. Florida Approves Dry Needling
Controversy Over Scope Expansion Florida’s approval of dry needling as part of chiropractic scope sparked outrage, not just for the decision itself but for the questionable methods used to achieve it. The case highlighted the influence of the chiropractic cartel and the systemic failures of state oversight, reigniting debates about chiropractic’s identity and future.
Conclusion: A Year of Reckoning and Renewal
2024 has been a year of milestones and challenges for chiropractic, underscoring both the potential and vulnerabilities of the profession. These stories reflect a collective reckoning with the past and a renewed commitment to integrity, diversity, and progress. As we look ahead, these pivotal moments will serve as touchstones for shaping chiropractic’s future.
Stay with The Chiropractic Chronicle for ongoing insights, in-depth analysis, and unwavering advocacy for the profession. Together, we move forward.
