“Neuralcentrism”:A new term for an old concept.

A proposal for the introduction and assimilation of this novel term into the chiropractic lexicon.

John J. Collins, DC Private Practice Newberg, OR

2007 INTERNATIONAL RESEARCH AND PHILOSOPHY SYMPOSIUM (IRAPS): The Science and Philosophy of the Mental Impulse November 2-4, 2007 Sherman College Of Straight Chiropractic- Spartanburg, SC

“Neuralcentrism”Introduction

• Ian Coulter PhD. 1991:

“Articulating and clarifying the concepts and constructs of chiropractic” is of paramount importance to our profession if we are to expand our cultural authority*.

*Coulter, I. Chiropractic Philosophy Has No Future. The Chiropractic Journal of Australia. 1991;21:129-131

“Neuralcentrism”Introduction

• I propose that a new, highly precise term is needed that clearly describes chiropractic’s unique paradigm.

• Neuralcentrism: “To acknowledge the primacy of the nervous system and to therefore focus special attention on its structure and function.”

“Neuralcentrism”Introduction (continued)

• Early 1900s: Neuralcentrism (primacy of the nerves) is what differentiated early chiropractic from osteopathy*.

• 1996 ACC Chiropractic Paradigm ‘Principle’: “The body's innate recuperative power is affected by and integrated through the nervous system.”**

*Palmer, David Daniel. 1967. Three Generations: A History of Chiropractic. Davenport, IA.:PSC: 12-13. **ACC. Chiropractic Paradigm: www.chirocolleges.com.

“Neuralcentrism”Introduction (continued)

• In fact, ‘Straight’ Chiropractic is founded upon ‘neuralcentrism’!

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“Neuralcentrism”Discussion

• Lexicon: The vocabulary of language.

• Any language that stops changing signifies a stagnant culture.

• Dynamic sub-cultures have dynamic lexicons. Example: computers/internet

“Neuralcentrism”Discussion (continued)

• Nelson et. al 1995: .. “The chiropractic profession has failed to define itself in a way that is understandable, credible and scientifically-coherant.” *

*Nelson, C. et. al. Chiropractic As Spine Care: A Model For The Profession. Journal of Chiropractic and Osteopathy 2005, 13:9

“Neuralcentrism”Discussion (continued)

• Coulter 1991: Chiropractic philosophy is actually a conglomeration of 6 philosophies:

*Coulter, I. The Chiropractic Journal of Australia 1991;21:136-141

Chiropractic Philosophy

Vitalism HolismTherapeutic

Conservatism NaturalismCritical

Rationalism

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“Neuralcentrism”Discussion (continued)

• ‘Vitalism’ although commonly used to describe chiropractic, is an insufficient term.

• Vitalism defined: “A doctrine that the processes of life are not explicable by the laws of physics and chemistry alone and that life is in some part self-determining*.”

• What does this have to do with adjusting the spine/correcting subluxations?

*Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary

“Neuralcentrism”Conclusion

• ‘Neuralcentrism’, as defined above, is a cornerstone of chiropractic thinking and clinical practice.

• ‘Neuralcentrism’ sets chiropractors apart from other healers/health professionals who claim to embrace vitalism, holism etc.

“Neuralcentrism”Conclusion (continued)

• Therefore…..

This term should be adopted into the chiropractic lexicon and used when appropriate within the chiropractic realm. 

. . . . . . .

“Neuralcentrism”

Questions?