Logan University - Fall Tower 2018

the

TOWer THE MAGAZINE OF LOGAN UNIVERSITY | FALL 2018

Logan’s Chiropractic Care Footprint Expands to Memphis

Technique Classes Deliver Diverse, Robust Learning Nurses Advance Careers Through DHPE Program Journey to Ecuador: Students Offer Care, Gain Experience

10

20

Features

In This Issue

8 Integrated Clinics Fuel Patient Success CareSTL patient turns to chiropractic, opposed to prescription drugs, for care

5 Leaders Made

14 MSN Students Share Love for Running Professional runners seek master’s degree in nutrition to meet career goals

16 Research

6 Mission Forward 8 College of Chiropractic 12 College of Health Sciences 18 Logan Connects 20 Pictorial 22 Donor Snapshot

16 Improving Health Through Research New study from Logan faculty examines the effects of fear on chronic pain

24 Student Life

27 Leader in Chiropractic Visits Logan James M. Cox, DC, DACBR shares story and knowledge of Cox® Technique

30 Graduating Class

27 Featured Speaker 28 Alumni Feature 32 Recognizing Success 34 Admissions 36 Under the Tower 37 Industry Update 39 Postscript

2 FALL 2018 • LOGAN UNIVERSITY

TOWer

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Contents

24 The Tower is a publication of Logan University for alumni, students, employees and friends of the University

THE TOWER Vol. 3, FALL 2018 The Tower is published three times a year: Spring, Summer and Fall.

On the Cover From left: Vincent DeBono, DC, CSCS; Dana Underkofler-Mercer, DC, MS; and Jude Miller, DC, MS, CCSP, CME Photo credit: Brooke Kehres The Tower is produced by the Department of Marketing and Communications. Reader comments can be emailed to Tower@logan.edu.

THE TOWER Logan University 1851 Schoettler Road Chesterfield, MO 63017 Tower@logan.edu | Logan.edu 1-800-782-3344

First

FOREMOST

Logan President Dr. Clay McDonald was named Educator of the Year by the Missouri Chiropractic Physicians Association at the association’s annual convention.

The award recognizes Dr. McDonald’s strong commitment to education in support of the chiropractic profession in Missouri.

K-Laser USA donated four state-of-the-art Platinum Series™ Class IV therapy lasers to Logan, allowing the University to be the premier leader of chiropractic institutions in laser therapy.

K-Laser is providing training to clinicians and students on the therapeutic lasers, which will reside in Logan University Health Centers as well as partner sites, such as Paraquad, the University of Memphis and the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland.

ATTENTION LOGAN ALUMNI

Logan University was recognized for its online learning excellence—including best online biology degrees, best online master’s in nutrition and best online nutrition degrees—by Affordable Colleges Online. The rankings consider a number of factors, such as student-tofaculty ratio, cost of attendance and the type of student services available.

Professor Kristina Petrocco-Napuli, DC, MS, FICC was appointed to the Council of The Council on Chiropractic Education (CCE). The Council is the governing body of the CCE, which is the national accrediting agency for Doctor of Chiropractic programs within the United States. Dr. Petrocco-Napuli has been a part of CCE for nine years as a member of its Site Team Academy Committee.

Her involvement, particularly her new role on the Council, allows her to give back to both the chiropractic profession and Logan. “This is the first time in almost a decade a Logan representative has had a seat at the table,” Dr. Petrocco-Napuli said.

Are you receiving our monthly alumni newsletter and invitations to alumni events? If not, please email us at Alumni@Logan.edu to be added to our list.

LOGAN UNIVERSITY • FALL 2018 3

Update from PRESIDENT CLAY MCDONALD

A quote by John Maxwell says: “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way and shows the way.” As educators and health care providers, this could not be truer of Logan University.

We know where we are and where we are headed, and the future looks bright. For the past few years, Logan has worked on expanding students’ choices, offering more degree pathways that complement a career in chiropractic. Given the education, clinical experiences and emphasis on critical thinking, Logan graduates have the unique ability to choose which career path is right for them.

That said, we are constantly improving the educational experience we do offer. One of the latest changes, featured on page 10, is happening right in the classroom where our faculty experts Drs. Daryl Ridgeway and Michael Wittmer are advancing the Diversified Technique class, which is now more hands-on than ever before, increasing students’ confidence as they graduate to working on real patients.

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We are cultivating new partnerships that give us the opportunity to take part in valuable research that moves our profession forward and helps spread the word about the benefits of chiropractic care. For example, Logan clinicians will take part in groundbreaking laser therapy research at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, and through our new partnership with the University of Memphis, many student athletes there will have access to routine chiropractic care for the first time.

We are leaders in education to those at Logan and to those outside of Logan, whether it’s empowering patients in the integrated health clinics to make positive behavioral changes that will have long-lasting effects on their quality of life, or co-treating with our peers within collaborative health care settings.

No longer are we alone in believing strongly that chiropractic is a valuable and necessary asset in integrated health settings.

While for some time we’ve walked the walk through our integrated clinics, which have provided chiropractic care for the uninsured and underinsured long before reimbursement was

Leadership is our role.

It’s our reason for being.

It’s our opportunity and also our challenge.

We’re ready. Are you? possible, Missouri Gov. Mike Parson recently signed a bill into law that allows chiropractic to be covered by Medicaid in Missouri.

Our support on this issue isn’t just empty words.

If our goal is to produce leaders in chiropractic and health sciences, we must be leaders ourselves. We must be fearless in our journey by embracing new ideas and opportunities, but also not forget where we started. It’s not just about taking risks, but taking a stand for what we believe in whether it’s increasing access to care for chiropractic and complementary care pathways or evolving our way of imparting the skills students need to be the best possible leaders in health care.

Leadership is our role. It’s our reason for being. It’s our opportunity and also our challenge. We’re ready. Are you?

L E A DE R S MA DE

Logan University is a community of extraordinary leaders.

Learn how these individuals are making an impact in their own communities, careers and beyond. professional organization so we can grow GABI COLE, and reach more people.” adjunct professor The Fit and Food Connection’s Annual for Logan’s Fundraiser will be held Nov. 18 at the Doctorate Four Seasons Hotel in St. Louis. Visit of Health fitandfoodconnection.org for more Professions information and to get involved.

Education, cofounded Fit and MIKE MURPHY, DC (1995) had the Food Connection opportunity to provide chiropractic care in 2015. The to several golfers playing at the 2018 Midwestern Professional Golf Association Championship nonprofit in St. Louis. Dr. Murphy is currently the organization provides healthy living official NHL team chiropractor for the resources, such as food assistance, physical St. Louis Blues and previously served as fitness and nutrition education, to families the official NFL team chiropractor for in need. the St. Louis Rams. He also practices at “I’ve always had a passion for working Performance Chiropractic in Chesterfield and with the community and giving back,” routinely gives continuing education seminars Gabi said. “When I met my co-founder Joy on golf.

Millner, we made it our goal to get people Dr. Murphy recently visited Logan’s healthy by any means necessary. That has campus for a “Biomechanics of Golf” course, meant educating individuals to help change where he demonstrated golf swings and their lives through food and fitness as well as addressed common mistakes and proper motivating them to make lifestyle changes.” form. Dr. Murphy said he has a passion Today, the resourced-based organization for golf and enjoys teaching others on how has numerous collaborations and to help and prevent injuries that can result partnerships, as well as volunteers all over the world. Gabi said she looks forward to re-creating the Fit and Food Connection model in other markets as well as increasing their partnerships and donors.

“We’re always looking for more food and volunteers,” she said.

“With the awareness we’ve created so far, we’re building capacity and implementing systems to be a more Dr. Mike Murphy demonstrates proper form at the “Biomechanics of Golf” course.

from the sport. “I think anyone who golfs chases the dream of perfecting their game,” he said. “Perfecting your practice is what we are chasing.”

JACOB “BLAKE” BRUMBELOW, president of Logan’s Student American Chiropractic Association (SACA), is strengthening the group’s ties with ACA National through open dialogue, relationship building and routine communication. Over the past few months, Jacob and members of SACA have been working closely with ACA to bring more events and speakers to Logan’s campus. As a result, they’ve increased SACA’s membership and have been building stronger connections with faculty and staff at Logan.

“When taking the position of president, I knew I wanted to increase engagement among the student body and build better relationships with the faculty, staff and administration,” he said. “When we had our first meeting, we decided as a team to start small and not over-promise. Since then, we’ve blown away even my expectations for the organization.”

Jacob credits the growth to the student body as well as to the SACA leadership team and trimester representatives whom he said work tirelessly to spread the word to their classmates. “They have all grown into their leadership roles. Witnessing that improvement has made me a very proud president,” he said.

LOGAN UNIVERSITY • FALL 2018 5

M I S S I O N F O RW ARD

BUILDING A TEAM: Universities Unite for Athlete-Focused Care the supervision of Dr. Miller—will have When it comes to professional sports, An Interdisciplinary Approach opportunities to complete rotations, chiropractic has a wide presence. to Care assisting with chiropractic care, at UofM. Doctors of Chiropractic serve as A native of east Tennessee, Dr. Miller Darrell Turner, associate athletic director official team members for 27 out of 30 graduated from Logan in 2011 with his for sports medicine at UofM, said the Major League Baseball teams; 30 out Doctor of Chiropractic and Master of health and well-being of all student athletes of 31 National Hockey League teams; Science in Sports Science & Rehabilitation. is at the forefront of the University’s and for nearly all 30 National Basketball He is currently transitioning from his Association Knoxville practice, teams as well as Active Family & all 32 National Sports Chiropractic, Football League which he manages teams. with his wife and While the fellow Logan same story does graduate (2011) not hold true Holly Tucker, DC, for colleges and MPH, CHES, FASA. universities, Dr. Miller said some are the newly created beginning to see position at UofM the benefits of unites his two having a team passions: treating chiropractor, athletes and serving especially in as an educator. the way of “I always maximizing envisioned a career performance where I could and managing practice and be in and preventing a teaching role,” he injuries. said. “I’m excited The University to be part of the of Memphis Logan family again, (UofM) is one working with elite of the latest, athletes and helping From left: Dr. Jude Miller, Larry Reynolds, Phil Kemmerer, DeAnna Hedgepeth and Trevor Elmitt welcoming to shape the future its first team leaders of the daily responsibilities, and he is thrilled to chiropractic physician—Jude Miller, DC, chiropractic profession.” establish a relationship with Dr. Miller MS, CCSP, CME—in partnership with As part of the UofM team, Dr. Miller and Logan.

Logan University. works closely with athletic trainers, “This relationship provides access to a As part of the agreement, all student nonsurgical and surgical orthopedists, highly trained medical professional and athletes attending UofM have access neurosurgeons, physical therapists and gives us the ability to increase the level of to on-site chiropractic care provided internal medicine specialists. He said care our sports medicine team can provide

by Dr. Miller. In turn, Logan Doctor of working in an interdisciplinary setting to our student athletes,” he said.

Chiropractic students—working under allows for more interaction, knowledge and 6 FALL 2018 • LOGAN UNIVERSITY

MI S S I O N F O R WA R D

Dr. Jude Miller

has arrangements with the University of Missouri in Columbia and Harris-Stowe State University in St. Louis.

Dr. Miller sees value in these relationships as a way to advance the chiropractic profession. “The more we put chiropractic in the spotlight at the collegiate and national levels, the more it validates our role in sports medicine and how we can work in collaborative, multidisciplinary environments,” he said.

With more than 500,000 college athletes, 19,500 teams and 24 sports that make up the National Collegiate Athletic Association, there are certainly opportunities for team chiropractors to make a stronger presence in the world of college sports.

“To play at the collegiate level gets harder and harder each year,” Dr. Miller said. “Athletes are getting better at the sports, training is becoming more effective and the expectations are always high.”

As the physical demands increase, so does the level of maintaining the athlete’s well-being. Dr. Miller said having the right

“I’m excited to be part of the Logan family again, working with elite athletes and helping to shape the future leaders of the chiropractic profession.”

– Dr. Jude Miller

team members on board to provide proper care is critical.

“The athletic staff is very open and receptive to chiropractic, and the role of chiropractic in the overall care of athletes,” said Dr. Miller. “We are grateful for this partnership with the UofM and excited to add a new facet of care for the athletes.”

experience sharing as they discuss best approaches to athlete treatment and care.

“It’s a team approach, and none of the athletes are seen by just one provider,” he said. “I may adjust someone who then sees an athletic trainer for rehab or physical therapy. I have found that the environment is helping expand my own knowledge base, and my goal is to do the same for my colleagues.”

Over the past few weeks, Dr. Miller has treated athletes in football, soccer, baseball and volleyball, as well as golf, track and field, cross country and cheerleading.

“No two days are alike, but regardless of the sport, there are similarities in the mechanics of an injury,” he said.

Expanding Chiropractic Care Among Collegiate Athletics The UofM is the third higher education institution to partner with Logan for the purpose of providing chiropractic care to student athletes. Logan also

Dr. Jude Miller, Dr. Dana Underkofler-Mercer and Dr. Vincent DeBono LOGAN UNIVERSITY • FALL 2018 7

C OL L E G E O F C H I RO PRA CT IC

Logan’s Integrated Clinics Return Patients’ Quality of Life As the opioid epidemic continues to grow, chiropractic is making a difference right here in St. Louis.

At Logan’s chiropractic clinic at CareSTL Health, Clinician and Assistant Professor Ross Mattox, DC, RMSK and his team of student interns have seen countless patients suffering from pain who could easily end up hooked on opioids, but instead find nonpharmacological relief from chiropractic care.

Usually, with just a few treatments, they regain their quality of life.

One such patient is 56-year-old Antoinette Griffin. About a year ago, Antoinette was suffering from pain in her back, hips and shoulder. Unable to lift her dominant arm above her head, she was limited in her normal daily activities.

She initially wanted a prescription for pain medications, but when she found her primary care provider’s schedule booked, she was referred to Dr. Mattox instead.

Because Antoinette knew the downsides of taking medication to relieve muscle-based pain, she happily complied.

“I was a mess, but I can now lift my hand over my head, and the pain in my shoulder and hip has subsided,” Antoinette said. “I like that chiropractic teaches you to move your body without hurting yourself, and it offers great relief. I was very pleased with my results without medication.”

Antoinette’s story is no outlier. In his three years leading Logan’s clinic at CareSTL, Dr. Mattox has treated countless patients suffering from chronic pain.

To bring attention to the importance of including chiropractic in integrated health settings, Dr. Mattox recently co-authored a case study with David J. Mann, DC that was published in the Journal of Chiropractic Medicine.

Titled “Chiropractic management of a patient with chronic pain in a federally qualified health center,” the case study is the first to come out of Logan’s integrated clinics.

The patient described in the study is a 61-year-old female who suffered neck, back and knee pain after a severe car accident. The pain from her injuries and subsequent surgeries also contributed to depression, opioid dependence and low Dr. Ross Mattox and CareSTL patient Antoinette Griffin quality of life. “One of her

8 FALL 2018 • LOGAN UNIVERSITY

“I like that chiropractic teaches you to move your body without hurting yourself, and it offers great relief. I was very pleased with my results without medication.”

– Antoinette Griffin favorite things to do before the accident was going to the movies, but she stopped going because the effort required taking a pain pill, and she didn’t like feeling sleepy and groggy in public,” Dr. Mattox said.

After undergoing six months of regular chiropractic care, she reported improvements in pain and quality of life and no longer needed opioids. “She finally went to the movies again and was so happy she could go back to doing the things she loved,” Dr. Mattox said.

The case study addresses chiropractic’s role in alleviating the opioid epidemic, as it shows how chiropractic is a safe, effective, nonpharmacological treatment alternative to opioids for chronic pain patients. One of the first studies to describe the inclusion of chiropractic care within federally qualified

COLLE GE O F CH I R O P R A CTI C

The case study addresses chiropractic’s role in alleviating the opioid epidemic, as it shows how chiropractic is a safe, effective, nonpharmacological treatment alternative to opioids for chronic pain patients.

health centers, it also addresses how critical these centers are for economically depressed urban areas. In addition, many of the risk factors for chronic pain are the same risk factors common among patients who utilize federally qualified health centers, such as low education and low socioeconomic status. As such, chiropractic care is a valuable addition to integrated health care settings.

The biggest takeaway, Dr. Mattox said, is the importance of patients doing the work to heal themselves. “Patients must be an active participant in their own treatment, otherwise it’s not as effective,” he noted.

“This patient gives me credit, but I couldn’t force her to eat better or do the exercises—she did that part all on her own.

She just didn’t know how, or didn’t know it was even possible until she started seeing me, and no one had told her it was possible before.”

Logan Around the World The University’s influence has always extended far beyond the Chesterfield campus, and this fall saw a flurry of travel among members of the Logan community.

London, England

In October, several members of the Logan faculty and administration hopped the pond to attend the World Federation of Chiropractic’s Education Conference in London. Logan President and Chair of the Association of Chiropractic Colleges, Dr. Clay McDonald served as a moderator during a panel presentation and Melinda Turner, DC presented an abstract and presentation on the Doctorate of Health Professions Education program and teaching residency, in which she collaborated with Cheryl Houston, PhD, CHES and Martha Kaeser, MEd, DC. Logan Professor Kristina Petrocco-Napuli, DC, MS, FICC, gave two presentations. The first was on the necessity of enhancing pediatric chiropractic education. “We wanted to bring this issue to the forefront, because there tends to be a lack of pediatric training in academic institutions,” Dr. Petrocco-Napuli said. “If you have a family chiropractic practice, there is a strong chance you will see a pediatric patient, and when there is no formal training, that can be scary, especially for a new practitioner.”

Dr. Petrocco-Napuli also presented a workshop in collaboration with two chiropractors from New York Chiropractic College on cultural competency in the academic clinic setting.

“It’s becoming increasingly important to look at the expectations of different cultures when they come in for treatment,” she said. “Some cultures bring family members into the room for support, for instance, and females from some cultures may not be able to be touched by a male practitioner. Students need to be aware of this and know how to ask questions about things like gender, too.”

A poster on the effect of chiropractic intern practice perceptions in the utilization of evidence-based care was presented by Dr. Petrocco-Napuli on behalf of Vincent DeBono, DC, CSCS, Dean of Logan’s College of Chiropractic.

Havana, Cuba

In November, Dr. DeBono and Patrick Battaglia, DC, DACBR, clinician and assistant professor, visited Cuba to lecture at the Institute of Sports Medicine’s annual conference, which attracts attendees from all over the world. This was the second year Logan faculty were invited to speak. Dr. DeBono presented on blood flow restriction training, while Dr. Battaglia presented on musculoskeletal ultrasound in the diagnosis of hip and pelvic complaints in athletes. “This was an opportunity to share our expertise with Cuba’s sports medicine department—they do a lot of ultrasound because MRI use is limited,” Dr. Battaglia said.

Logan University Enters Affiliation Agreement with VA

Logan entered into an affiliation agreement with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Tennessee Valley Healthcare System (TVHS), wherein Logan clinicians and student interns will provide chiropractic care. The goal of this partnership is to enhance patient care, education and research opportunities for both institutions. Beginning in January 2019, one DC student at Logan will have the opportunity to complete his or her preceptorship at TVHS, with the goal to expand this experience to more students in the future. Jason Cook, DC (2004) serves as the chief of chiropractic services for TVHS. LOGAN UNIVERSITY • FALL 2018 9

COL L EG E O F C H I RO P RA CT IC

Learning

Updated Technique Class Delivers Hands-On

Doctor of Chiropractic students at Logan University now get to experience an updated technique class, designed to go beyond the lecture hall and into the newly renovated adjusting lab, increasing their exposure to hands-on learning and fast-tracking their path to working on patients.

Designed by Daryl Ridgeway, DC and Michael Wittmer, DC, the class explores Diversified Technique (Reinert Specific), which is one of the chiropractic techniques Logan was founded on. “We want to bolster and reinforce the Reinert technique and also open students’ minds to other techniques out there,” Dr. Ridgeway said.

Kimberly O’Reilly, DHEd, MSW, DC, executive vice president of academic affairs, requested the technique class be updated after receiving feedback that students wanted more hands-on

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experience. “Students were finding it difficult to connect the dots between consulting an X-ray finding and performing the proper adjustment,” Dr. Ridgeway said.

“Knowing this, we put together our ideas and Dr. O’Reilly allowed us to run with it.”

Now, students start practicing adjustments almost immediately, whereas previously the class was more heavily weighted toward lecture time, with minimal hands-on lab experience occurring later in the trimester. “Manual adjustments are the cornerstone of chiropractic care, so it’s vital

that students start getting this experience early,” Dr. Wittmer said. “We hope it will be a better experience for students and bridge the gap between academics and the real world, and we believe we will see significant outcomes in student success in subsequent trimesters.”

The class will also bring in chiropractors to present case studies so students can see how different scenarios play out with patients. This change was inspired in part by Dr. Wittmer’s own experiences at Logan in the late 1970s, when he was

COLLE GE O F CH I R O P R A CTI C

“Manual adjustments are the cornerstone of chiropractic care, so it’s vital that students start getting this experience early.”

– Dr. Michael Wittmer taught palpation by Roy Hillgartner, DC. “On Fridays, he would bring an armload of X-rays to our Trimester 1 chiropractic palpation class and go over them, discussing the details of their cases. These were real patients he saw in his practice,” Dr. Wittmer explained. “I still remember some of those patients, and it was of great help to me when I started my own practice. We want to give the students a similar experience.”

Dr. Ridgeway instructs a student in proper technique.

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COL L E G E O F H EAL T H SCIENCES

Nurses Further Education Through DHPE Program For nearly three years, Logan’s online Doctorate of Health Professions Education (DHPE) program has attracted professionals from various fields in health care, from allopathic physicians and chiropractors to physician assistants, paramedics and registered dietitian nutritionists.

As health professions education continues to be recognized as a key part of quality health care, the demand grows for health care educators. Today, Logan’s online DHPE program has nearly 50 students enrolled—eight of whom are registered nurses employed at Central Methodist University (CMU) in Fayette, Missouri.

Nurses tend to be discipline-specific, said Cheryl A. Houston, PhD, CHES, CFCS, RD, LD, FAND, program director of the DHPE and general education at Logan. “Typically, if a nurse wants to further their education, they will pursue a master’s or doctorate in nursing or education or become a nurse practitioner,” she said. “This group of nurses are real mavericks, getting their Doctorate in Health Professions Education, which is so unique for their career.”

She said the fact that these nurses are taking the time and effort to expand their skills in education, not just nursing education, will broaden their perspective and their scope of practice.

Stephanie Brink, RN, MSN Stephanie Brink serves as the assistant dean of online programs and the director of the RN-to-BSN program at CMU, where she also earned her nursing degree. After spending a few years working as a nurse in various areas of a hospital, Stephanie completed her Master of Science in Nursing Education and came into her current role.

In early 2018, Stephanie again got the itch to further her education and was intrigued when she came across Logan’s DHPE program.

“I knew I never wanted to be a nurse practitioner, and I didn’t like the lack of flexibility in most higher education nursing programs,” Stephanie said. “Since a large portion of my current role is online education, I liked how Logan’s program delves deep into online 12 FALL 2018 • LOGAN UNIVERSITY

Stephanie Brink

COLLE GE OF H E A L TH S CI E N CE S

“I liked how Logan’s program delves deep into online curriculum development, rather than just in-classroom education. ” – Stephanie Brink

Hope Taylor

curriculum development, rather than just inclassroom education. They encourage you to take the path that best suits you.”

Stephanie particularly enjoys working with other students from varied professional backgrounds. She said it helps to see things from another perspective and gives her great interdisciplinary experience. “I’m excited to complete the degree and see where the new credential takes me,” she said.

Hope Taylor, RN, MSN Hope Taylor, assistant nursing professor and simulation lab coordinator at CMU, has always been a hands-on learner. After working as a licensed practical nurse and a registered nurse, she took the first step toward advancing her education through a Master of Science in Nursing Education. With a few years at CMU under her belt, Hope decided to take the next step in her educational career.

“Because I am a visual learner, it was important for me to find a program that incorporated that learning style into its curriculum,” Hope said. “I needed the flexibility of a completely online course, but with the interactive aspect as well. That’s what I really liked about Logan’s DHPE program.

It is the perfect balance of clinical and research-based work.”

Hope also enjoys the DHPE program because she is interested in learning how to educate among different professional disciplines. This aspect of the program has given her confidence to effectively teach and communicate to other professionals in her current position.

LOGAN UNIVERSITY • FALL 2018 13

C OL L EG E O F H EAL T H SCIENCES

Health Sciences Students Aim for 2020 Olympics If it were up to Alex Wilson and Marisa Howard, they would run forever. But as professional runners, they know their bodies will eventually have other plans, which is why they are pursuing their Master’s of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance from Logan University.

Alex and Marisa, both college standouts in cross country and track and field, crossed paths for the first time when they earned sponsorships from Oiselle Running Apparel in 2015 as professional runners.

Then, states apart, the recent college graduates began Logan’s online program in January 2018.The two are happy to have

each other for support while they balance working, running and schoolwork.

Alex is back at her alma mater as a full-time assistant track and field and cross country coach for the University of Northern Iowa. She earned her undergraduate degree in criminology and sociology, but shortly after graduation she

decided she wasn’t quite ready to leave the track and pursued coaching instead.

Alex dedicates her free time to her running career. She is still sponsored by Oiselle, with sights set on running the steeplechase for the U.S. Olympic Team in 2020. In 2016, Alex qualified for the Olympic trials, and in 2017, she placed

From left: Dr. Jude Miller, Larry Reynolds, Phil Kemmerer, DeAnna Hedgepeth and Trevor Elmitt.

Marisa Howard (left) and Alex Wilson race toward the finish line.

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COLLE GE OF H E A L TH S CI E N CE S

Marisa Howard

10th at the USA Track & Field Outdoor Championships.

“Qualifying for the Olympic trials was my biggest accomplishment in my career so far,” Alex said. “I couldn’t believe it when I crossed the finish line two seconds under the qualifying time.”

Marisa earned a nursing degree from Boise State University and currently works part-time as a school nurse to allow time for training and travel, plus her schoolwork.

Like Alex, the steeplechase is Marisa’s best race, and she also hopes to earn a spot on Team USA in 2020. In 2014, Marisa was the steeplechase runner-up at the NCAA Championship, her biggest honor thus far.

“I came in kind of as a dark horse,” Marisa said. “I was in eighth place and ended up surging, passing an Olympian and finishing in second place.”

Marisa parted ways with Oiselle in 2017 and is now running unsponsored.

This season, she is partnering with a nonprofit called RUJA and will run with

the company’s name on her jersey. RUJA Alex and Marisa both feel that while means “to dream” in Ugandan, and the Logan’s program is online, they are still nonprofit focuses on addressing the root receiving great support from the faculty causes of poverty in Uganda. “I went on and enjoy being part of a community. a mission trip with RUJA this summer “When I first started, I had an academic to Uganda and it was amazing,” Marisa advisor who would call and email me said. “I want to help create awareness for regularly to make sure I was on the right their mission, and I can do that with my page,” Marisa said. “It was extremely running career.” helpful.”

With their busy lives, Alex and Marisa Alex and Marisa are set to graduate both knew an online master’s degree in 2020, giving them two goals to work program was their best option. The two toward: graduation and Team USA. started searching for affordable programs Whether we see them running the that had the curriculum to suit their steeplechase in Tokyo in 2020, coaching interests and goals. For Alex, Logan’s or changing people’s lives with health and program was a perfect fit because it was nutrition, these future Logan grads will nutrition-focused and related to sports. change the world for the better.

“I love coaching, and this degree will help me better guide my athletes in nutrition,” Alex said. “If I decide to stop coaching later, I’ll have a great degree to fall back on.”

Marisa has always had a passion for cooking and nutrition, and she believes in promoting long-term health and wellness through lifestyle changes. Her goal is to combine this passion with her nursing knowledge to spread the word about health and wellness. Logan’s Master of Science in Nutrition and Human Performance was the perfect match.

“One day I hope to run a wellness program for a large corporation,” Marisa said. “This degree will give me the knowledge and skills to back up what I already live and preach about health and wellness.”

From left: Marisa Howard, Alex Wilson and an unidentified teammate LOGAN UNIVERSITY • FALL 2018 15

R E S E AR C H

Research Explores Link Between Fear and Chronic Pain Norman W. Kettner, DC, DACBR, DCBCN, FICC, chair of Logan’s Department of Radiology, contributed to the study that found the observation of back-straining exercises is associated with increased fear and expected pain of performance in chronic low back pain compared to healthy controls.

The study, “Brain mechanisms underpinning fear of movement and its modulation by Manual Therapy: an fMRI study of chronic low back pain,” was part of a collaboration between Logan University, Athinoula A. Martinos Center for Biomedical Imaging, the Osher Center for Integrative Medicine—a partnership between Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Harvard Medical School—and Melrose Family Chiropractic. It was presented at ACC-RAC, chiropractic’s premier research and educational conference, in March and was published in the Journal of Pain.

According to the study, learning and memory (implicit) processes, such as habituation, sensitization and operant conditioning, are determinants of chronic low back pain. Perception of pain takes place when potential or actual noxious stimuli are appraised as threats.

Maladaptive neuroplastic structural and functional brain changes evolve from these learning processes to initiate changes in pain perception. Their reversal reduces chronic pain. Extinguishing (unlearning) maladaptive memory is impaired in chronic low back pain and requires learning an inhibitory process (pain-free state).

One proposed effect of spinal manipulative therapy (SMT), which involves nonharmful mobilization of painful joints, is that it generates salient sensory and proprioceptive feedback that may disrupt the relationship between pain anticipation, fear and movement.

Dr. Kettner and the research team mapped brain responses with fMRI to anticipated pain and fear of physical exercises observed in neutral and back16 FALL 2018 • LOGAN UNIVERSITY

stressing videos, and the effect of two SMT techniques (grade 3 mobilization and grade 5 manipulation) on these outcomes. He said this study sheds light Dr. Norman Kettner on the brain’s processing of anticipated pain and fear of back-straining movement in chronic low back pain and suggests that SMT may reduce cognitive and affective-motivational aspects of fear-avoidance behavior, along with the reduction of the corresponding brain processes.

SMT, either as monotherapy or potentially in combination with psychological therapy, such as cognitive behavioral therapy, may target this learning aspect of chronic pain with disruption of the association between (exteroceptive and proprioceptive) sensations and fear/pain.

In the fear-avoidance model, fear learning is a key component of chronification of pain (and emerging avoidance behavior), and unlearning through exposure to SMT is suggested as a key mechanism for the reduction of avoidance behavior and disability.

Within this fear-avoidance framework, SMT elicits salient sensory and proprioceptive input from the painful low back region, followed by an absence of a US/UR (nociception/pain) as well as a reduction in pain, thus disrupting the association between low back sensations and fear responses.

“This research is important and not only pioneering because it shifts our clinical attention away from the joint system alone and puts it into the processor called the human brain,” Dr. Kettner explained. “We

know now that pain is generated by the human brain, so the concept of pain or pain perception is finally coming under exploration. This will be the first fMRI study to look at mobilization versus manipulation in chronic low back pain patients.”

This research also has important implications for the opioid epidemic currently sweeping the nation. Opioid misuse springs from a poor understanding of nonpharmacological management of pain, Dr. Kettner noted. “This study will add to our understanding of nonpharmacological pain management by manual therapy with the hopes that one day nonpharmacological treatment will be the starting point in treating chronic pain patients, which could permanently eliminate our society’s problem with opioid addiction.”

IASP 2018 Abstract Dr. Kettner was a co-author on three abstracts presented at the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) at their September meeting in Boston, Massachusetts. One of the papers was titled “Pain and Paresthesia Severity in Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Linked with Somatotopically-Specific Functional Connectivity in Primary Somatosensory Cortex.”

In this study, chronic CTS patients were compared with healthy controls for functional brain connectivity using fMRI. There was increased functional connectivity in the contralesional left S-1 cortex with the right fronto-insular cortex, a recognized pain processing brain region. This, and other findings from the study, suggest peripheral neuropathic dysfunction (CTS) targets intrinsic sensorimotor network connectivity within the brain.

R E S E A R CH

Walter Reed National Military Medical Center Logan University has begun working with Walter Reed National Military Medical Center in Bethesda, Maryland. During a visit in September, Drs. Jason Goodman, Dana Underkofler-Mercer and Vincent DeBono met with Ret. Col. S. Avery Davis, MD, U.S. Army Lt. Col. Keith P. Myers, MD, DC, and Terence K. Kearney, DC, FIAMA, CCSP, to provide training on how to use K-Laser therapy lasers. Together, the team will examine the effects of laser therapy on veteran amputees experiencing stump pain, post-amputation pain and phantom pain.

From left: Dr. Kearney, Dr. Myers, Dr. Goodman, Dr. Underkofler-Mercer, Dr. Phil Harrington and Dr. DeBono

Dr. De Geer published in Journal of Chiropractic Medicine The June 2018 issue of Journal of Chiropractic Medicine featured a literature review by Christopher De Geer, DC, MS (2015) titled “Intervertebral Disk Nutrients and Transport Mechanisms in Relation to Disk Degeneration.”

The paper reviewed nearly 60 research articles regarding mechanisms leading to degeneration in intervertebral disks and contributing biological and mechanical factors. “We wanted to look at disk degeneration, because it’s a big problem we see in clinical practice and a contributor to low back pain,” Dr. De Geer said.

“Understanding how nutrients play a role may help guide the treatment and prevention of spinal disease. This review looks at what it means for disks to have proper functioning, what nutrients are needed for disks to thrive and how those nutrients get to the disks.”

Intervertebral disk cells require glucose (the disk’s main energy supply) and oxygen (for proper cell function). These

nutrients enter the disk either through the capillary beds of end plates (the primary route) or through the outer annulus.

When either path is impeded, cells can’t get the nutrients they need, leading to disk degeneration. Compression, as well as a solute’s size, shape, ionic charge and metabolic demand, determine how efficiently nutrients can be transported.

Additional factors that can impede nutrient transportation and exacerbate degenerative disk disease include dysfunctional loading and spinal position, lack of motion, high-frequency loading, disk injury, smoking, an acidic environment and a lack of bioavailability of the necessary nutrients. “A big clinical takeaway is the role dysfunctional asymmetrical loading and spinal position play,” Dr. De Geer said. “If a patient isn’t getting enough exercise, is involved in high-frequency loading activities like truck driving, chooses to smoke, or if there’s an acidic environment in play, those are all factors that contribute to disk

degeneration.”

The research covered in the review suggests that damaged or degenerated disks in animal studies may be repaired with exogenous Dr. Christopher De Geer growth factors, stem cells or chondrocyte implantations.

Restoring symmetrical spinal loading and promoting a slightly alkaline environment for disk cells to thrive may be significant goals for a chiropractor to instill in his or her patient’s treatment plan.

Dr. De Geer said his work was influenced by former Logan assistant professor Mozammil Hussain, PhD, and Rodger Tepe, PhD, former dean of research and development at Logan.

LOGAN UNIVERSITY • FALL 2018 17

L OGA N C O N N EC T S

PARA POWERLIFTING ATHLETES

In December 2016, Logan University officially became home of USA Para Powerlifting, hosting training camps and events and providing a new place for para athletes and their coaches from across the country to convene and compete.

Jake Schrom

18 FALL 2018 • LOGAN UNIVERSITY

sport has expanded from lifters with spinal cord injuries to individuals with a variety of disabilities, such as dwarfism, amputation/ limb loss and cerebral palsy, among others.

Additionally, the number of participating countries is now more than 100, making para powerlifting the fastest-growing Paralympic sport.

Photo credit: Daniel Zampogna

High Performance Coach and USA Para Powerlifting Manager Mary Hodge said para powerlifting is gaining more awareness.

According to the Team USA website, the

As an advocate and ambassador, Mary said she is committed to helping grow the sport and educating those among the disabled community about the possibilities para powerlifting presents. “Our goal is to develop athletes so they can compete at the highest level possible,” she said, adding that sharing their stories and successes brings more exposure to the sport.

Every athlete on the USA Para Powerlifting team has a unique story, said Kelley Humphries, DC, MS, EMT-P, CSCS, ICCSP, who serves as the director of USA Para Powerlifting at Logan University. This is particularly true, however, for veteran athlete Jake Schrom and newcomer Jonathan Coots.

A Veteran Champion Jake Schrom is no stranger to hard work.

The Carlisle, Pennsylvania, native grew up playing multiple sports and began helping at his family’s tree service and landscaping business as soon as he was old enough to work. For six years, Jake worked alongside his family members, never giving a second thought to his physical capabilities.

Then, in May 2008, Jake’s world was turned upside down. Just after finishing his sophomore year of college at Pennsylvania State University, Jake was driving a work truck down a highway when the brakes stopped working. He was thrown out of the vehicle, which landed on his legs. Jake’s injuries were so severe that his right leg had to be amputated above the knee.

After waking up in the hospital and realizing what happened, Jake’s confusion turned to fear until two members of the Amputee Support Team of Central Pennsylvania paid him a visit. “I didn’t know anything about amputations. I’d never even seen someone with a prosthetic limb,” Jake said. “It was comforting to see someone who was once in a similar situation as me doing well. It helped get my mind in the right place to begin healing.”

Jake worked hard to heal and recover over the next few months so he could return to Penn State. This was when he was introduced to Ability Athletics, an organization through the University that

helped turn Jake’s life rightside up again.

“Ability Athletics introduced me to Paralympic sports,” Jake said. “They took me to my first competition, which is where I was noticed by the coaches of Team USA.” Nearly 10 years later, Jake continues to dedicate his life outside of work to building his rank and working toward his ultimate goal: competing in, and winning, the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.

“I always ask myself ‘How bad do I want this?’

It helps me put everything in my daily life, outside of work, into improving at powerlifting,” Jake explained. His overall ranking has jumped significantly in the past Jonathan Coots two years as a result of his hard work and dedication to powerlifting.

Outside of the gym, birth defect that occurs when the spine and Jake has spent nearly a decade as a trained spinal cord don’t form properly. He spends peer visitor with the Amputee Support Team much of his time in a wheelchair, but that of Central Pennsylvania. Jake said, “The didn’t stop him from becoming one of peer visitors were so helpful and influential the top powerlifters in his weight and age on my recovery process. I love being able to group. Jonathan’s best bench press is in the help others who are in similar situations as I 200- to 210-pound range—nearly double his once was.” body weight and indicative of his potential

A Promising Future From the moment Jonathan Coots began lifting weights in a seventh-grade advanced physical education class, he knew it was something he was going to stick with. Jonathan enjoyed the class and had so much encouragement from his coaches that he decided to continue into high school. Just two years later, at the 2016 high school national competition, Jonathan took first place and set a national record for bench press. This was no ordinary feat, but Jonathan is no ordinary kid.

Jonathan was born with spina bifida, a

to compete on an elite level. During a recent competition in St. Louis, his performance impressed a coach for the USA Para Powerlifting Development Team so much that she asked him to be part of the team.

Now, just after starting his senior year at Belton High School in Belton, Missouri, Jonathan has his sights set on attending the 2024 Paralympics in Paris. He works tirelessly toward this goal every day with a workout program from his high school coach, as well as his Team USA coach.

The USA Para Powerlifting team, and team hopefuls, will return to Logan in 2019 for training and competition.

LOGAN UNIVERSITY • FALL 2018 19

Photo credit: Jennifer Coots

L O GA N CO N N E CTS

P IC TOR I AL

2018 ABCA Annual Convention

Logan University hosted the American Black Chiropractic Association’s (ABCA) 37th Annual Convention over the summer. The ABCA provides invaluable support to African American chiropractic students, including mentoring and guidance as they launch their careers. Approximately 200 chiropractors and chiropractic students attended the fourday event, during which the ABCA dedicated a bust of the association’s founder, Bobby Westbrooks, DC (1966).

The bust is now housed in the William D. Purser, DC Center.

20 FALL 2018 • LOGAN UNIVERSITY

P I CTO R I A L

Symposium on Reconciliation & Ethics Fairness in the Courts This summer, Logan welcomed The National Judicial College to campus for a Symposium on Reconciliation & Ethics Fairness in the Courts, featuring the descendants of key players in the historic Dred Scott decision. Dred Scott was a slave who sought his freedom through the American legal system and was denied in a decision by the United States Supreme Court in 1857.

LOGAN UNIVERSITY • FALL 2018 21

D ON OR S N AP S H O T

Brian and Ann Walsh Brian Walsh, DC credits a chiropractor for saving him from having back surgery.

Inspired by the profession, Dr. Walsh decided to leave his career as an electrical engineer and began looking into chiropractic colleges.

“Logan just felt right to me right from the start,” he recalls. “The beautiful campus, the welcoming details of our first visit, the ergonomic classrooms—all of these things made it apparent this was the best choice for me.”

While he attended Logan, his wife, Ann, worked as an office assistant in a practice with three chiropractors in St. Charles. There she learned how to manage a practice.

After graduating from Logan in 1999, the Walshes moved back to their native Melbourne, Florida, and opened up their own practice, CARE Natural Wellness Center, focusing on chiropractic care, as well as nutritional therapy and wellness.

“We started our small, family-oriented, cash-based practice with the goal of helping people in our community get healthy naturally. I now see approximately 120 to 130 patients per week, ranging in age from one month old to 90 years old,” he says. “Our practice has steadily grown over the last 18 years, and I am now looking to hire two more practitioners.”

He thanks his instructors at Logan for an excellent experience. “They are committed to this profession and to the process of teaching,” says Dr. Walsh. “My wife and I enjoy giving back, and we are big believers that if everyone gave a little, Logan’s needs would be fulfilled.”

Currently, Dr. Walsh is working to obtain his nutritional diplomate from the American Board of Clinical Nutrition.

He has seen an uptick in digestive and immune system problems in the past few years and recognizes the importance of correct nutrition to alleviate these issues.

“I believe in treating the whole person—body, mind and spirit. This is how you achieve the best results,” he says.

“While building a practice is important, I suggest doctors stay focused on the patients and helping them get healthy and stay healthy, as naturally as possible.”

22 FALL 2018 • LOGAN UNIVERSITY

Do you have a story to share about why you give to Logan? Email Alumni@Logan.edu. Visit Logan.edu/Give for giving options.

DO N O R S N A P S H O T

Dr. Gordon Heuser Memorial Scholarship Each year one deserving Logan student is awarded the Dr. Gordon Heuser Memorial Scholarship. The Heuser Scholarship not only recognizes a student who exemplifies dedication and drive to excel as a doctor of chiropractic, but also memorializes the great contributions Dr. Heuser made to the chiropractic profession.

A Chiropractic Trailblazer Born in 1927, Dr. Heuser grew up in St. Louis as a neighbor of Logan’s founder, Dr. Hugh B. Logan. Encouraged by Dr. Logan’s treatment of his mother through a life-threatening illness, Dr. Heuser attended Logan, graduating in 1950. Following graduation, he opened his chiropractic clinic in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

After nearly two decades of treating patients in private practice, Dr. Heuser saw opportunities for chiropractic to play a prominent role in delivering excellent health care to a growing nation. Aided by a keen business mind and a partnership with Dr. Rolla Pennell, Dr. Heuser began to focus his career on helping other chiropractors with patient management, clinic procedures, practice administration and marketing strategies.

Through his practice management firm, Clinic Masters, Dr. Heuser not only worked to see that chiropractors reached a pinnacle of success in effectively training greater numbers of patients, but he also dedicated himself to promoting the growth of the chiropractic profession.

Working as an ambassador for the profession across the country and internationally, Dr. Heuser also made time for service in a number of professional organizations, including the Logan Board of Trustees. Instrumental in the purchase of the Logan campus in Chesterfield, he was extremely proud of Logan and its instruction in preparing future chiropractors.

The Heuser Legacy All in all, six Heuser family members are Logan alumni, including Dr. Heuser’s father, Dr. Herman Heuser, who was a reverend at a St. Louis Presbyterian church and graduated from Logan in 1951. Two of Dr. Heuser’s children, Dr. Charles Heuser and Dr. Sara Horn (née Heuser), as well as a grandchild, Dr. Daniel Heuser, are all Logan graduates and practicing chiropractors.

Shortly after Dr. Heuser’s death in 2007, his children founded the scholarship. “While my father always saw the growth of chiropractic as being paramount to bringing a higher quality of health to patients, perhaps his greatest gift was his optimistic nature,” said Dr. Horn.

“He always looked at obstacles in a positive light, anxious to help find solutions to overcome them. In this way, he helped many doctors.”

LOGAN UNIVERSITY • FALL 2018 23

STUDEN T L I F E

STUDENTS USE CHIROPRACTIC TO IMPROVE QUALITY OF LIFE IN

ECUADOR Just after completing exams and checking off another trimester, seven female DC students packed their bags and chiropractic tables and headed south to Quito, Ecuador, for clinic abroad, eager to put their knowledge to use on real patients.

WLC at Casa Gangotena in Quito’s Historic Center

The inspiration for the trip came from Lizzie Rooker-Ortega, Trimester 10 student, who met her husband in Ecuador on a volunteer trip three years ago. “It’s always been a big focus of mine to give back to

24 FALL 2018 • LOGAN UNIVERSITY

communities,” Lizzie said. Along with help from her husband and mother-in-law, Lizzie coordinated the 10-day trip, including travel arrangements, itineraries and a partnership with a local university.

The students, all of whom are current or past members of the Executive Board of Women’s Leadership Council (WLC) at Logan, were accompanied by Erica Hackett, DC, FIAMA, clinician and instructor, and Charlotte Meier, DC (2017).

WLC partnered with Instituto Tecnologico Superior Esculapio, a naturopathic university in Quito, to give health exams to patients, provide chiropractic adjustments and share nutrition and exercise tips.

“First and foremost, the goal was to help the people of Ecuador,” Lizzie said.

“Chiropractic is poorly known in South America, and the people of Ecuador are underserved in terms of health.”

The trip also served as a learning

opportunity for the students—four of whom were entering the clinics for the first time upon their return to Logan—as Copyright © Free Vector Maps.com well as exposure for chiropractic and the University. “Any international outreach for chiropractic and Logan is huge,” Lizzie said. “There are so many aspects of someone’s life that can be impacted through chiropractic—whether it’s physical, nutritional or emotional.”

As patients came into the temporary clinic, Logan students used a translator to ask questions and understand the patient’s complaint. From there, the students consulted with Dr. Hackett regarding a patient plan and got to work adjusting and teaching at-home exercises and posture tips. They treated patients who had previously suffered from cancer, a heart attack, a kidney ablation, cramping or pain throughout the body, among other complaints—more complicated cases

S TU DE N T L I F E

Trimester 7 student Hailey Koch adjusts a patient.

WLC, several translators and Lizzie’s husband, Max Ortega, who also helped plan the clinic abroad trip, stand atop one of the towers in Quito’s Basilica del Voto Nacional.

than the students typically encountered in St. Louis, Lizzie said.

Throughout the five days of clinic, WLC saw more than 100 patients, and they treated each patient at least twice. They even referred some patients back to the naturopathic institute to continue care.

“People are in pain for so long that it affects them emotionally, too. The better they feel, the better they want to live, and the better they want to take care of

themselves,” Lizzie said. “By experiencing these cases and treating these patients, we were able to grow and be challenged as health care providers and really focus on providing high-quality patient care.”

In addition to treating patients, the women spent time exploring the city.

They saw the Ciudad Mitad del Mundo, the monument marking the equator, where visitors can stand with one foot in each hemisphere; the Monument to

Independence; waterfalls and more.

“A personal goal of mine was for the other students and staff to experience a different way of life in Ecuador,” Lizzie said. “It is a very special place to me with a beautiful culture and beautiful people.

Logan helped give me the tools and opportunities to give back to the people of Ecuador, and do so with my fellow students.”

LOGAN UNIVERSITY • FALL 2018 25

S TUD EN T LI F E

Show-Me State Games At the annual Show-Me State Games in July, 83 students participated in eight sporting events, including flag football, women’s and men’s basketball, soccer, softball, bowling, volleyball and ultimate frisbee. Hosted by the University of Missouri, the Show-Me State Games’ mission is to provide all Missourians the opportunity to participate in activities of health, fitness, family and fun. The Games have grown to be the largest in the nation, with more than 40 sports and 20,000 participants. Students represented Logan at the Games for the second year, bringing home the following trophies: Flag Football 1st Place

1

Bowling Mixed Doubles 1st Place

1

Bowling Men’s Doubles 2nd Place

2

Women’s Basketball 2nd Place

2

26 FALL 2018 • LOGAN UNIVERSITY

1

F E A TU R E D S P E A K E R

Living Legend: Dr. James Cox Visits Logan Logan welcomed James M. Cox, DC, DACBR, FICC, HonDLitt, FACO(H), to campus Oct. 4-5.

Dr. Cox is the founder of the Cox® Technic Flexion Distraction and Decompression protocols for spinal pain relief.

Organized by Dana UnderkoflerMercer, DC, MS, associate professor, Dr. Cox gave a presentation to nearly 300 students, faculty members, staff and alumni on the growth of Dr. James Cox spinal manipulation, which culminated more than 50 years of practice, research and education.

Faculty member Kelly Brinkman, DC, who teaches the Cox Technic at Logan, said she still remembers meeting Dr. Cox as a student and being mesmerized by his excitement for the power of chiropractic.

“Since then, his research and table has had a phenomenal effect on the profession, and the Cox Technic is one of the top three used by chiropractors around the country.”

Professor and Chair of Logan’s Radiology Department Norman Kettner, DC, DACBR, FICC, also recognized Dr. Cox for his vision, courage, tenacity and intelligence, noting how the leader has evolved from a chiropractic physician, to a scientist and an academician.

Dr. Cox is highly recognized around the world, having authored numerous books.

He is a Fellow of the American Chiropractic Board of Radiology and Honorary Fellow of the International College of Chiropractors and the Academy of Chiropractic Orthopedists.

Dr. Cox graduated as valedictorian of his class from National College of Chiropractic in 1963.

local chiropractors and decided that the Shortly after he began practicing in Fort McManis Table “was not going to cut it.”

Wayne, Indiana, Dr. Cox had what he called He found an engineer who could build one a life-changing moment. “A young woman to his specifications and called it the Chirocame in who was in extreme low back pain.

Manis Table.

As I adjusted her, she screamed in pain. She From there Dr. Cox’s career (and the left my office and went on to have back table) would evolve as he fine-tuned his surgery.” It was at that point Dr. Cox said he technique into what is now known as the began to question his career choice.

Cox® Technic Flexion Distraction. Today, The “I went to my stepfather, John Rodman, who was both a Doctor of Osteopathy and Cox® Table, now in its eighth generation, is Doctor of Chiropractic, and said ‘I don’t created and distributed by Haven Medical. think I can do that to people,’” Dr. Cox said.

Over the years, Dr. Cox has worked “He said to me, ‘Son, you may well be in with orthopedic surgeons, neurosurgeons the way of learning.’” and urologists and has embraced Dr. Cox admits he did not fully realize multidisciplinary approaches to health care, the meaning of that statement until later in understanding that spinal manipulation life; however, it motivated him to become is not the sole answer. He dedicates his a perpetual student of the chiropractic continuing work and practice to education profession as well as other professions that as well as evidence-based clinical practice, touch the spine. focusing on research and patient experience He purchased a McManis Table, “I see on your signs that you’re creating designed to serve physical therapy, surgical, leaders,” Dr. Cox said, as he spoke to Logan students. “We absolutely need you. In the gynecological and manipulation purposes. words of Ghandi: ‘Be the change you want By adding pillows and straps, Dr. Cox to see.’” said he was able to achieve his goal of a treatment table that met his needs.

“More importantly,” he said, “I learned the Law of the Joint and I never had to carry a patient out of my office again.”

The Cox Technic is described by Dr. Cox himself as smooth, rhythmical, slow and specifically implied. “It’s a balance of hand presses and table motion that requires skill and experience.”

Dr. Cox taught this technique to two eager Dr. Cox demonstrates the Cox Technic for an appreciative audience.

LOGAN UNIVERSITY • FALL 2018 27

A L UM N I F EAT U RE

Logan Alumnus Scores Position with FC Dallas When Jacob Stutz, DC (2015) moved to Frisco, Texas, the first thing he did was drive to Toyota Stadium, home of Major League Soccer team FC Dallas.

“I sat in the parking lot, thinking about the chance to be just a small part of professional soccer,” he said. “Three months after walking across the stage at Logan, I had no idea this would happen to someone like me.”

Dr. Stutz is now wrapping up his third season as team chiropractor for FC Dallas. He said the opportunity to work

28 FALL 2018 • LOGAN UNIVERSITY

with the team had nothing to do with connections—rather it was the result of hard work, determination and the courage to ask.

“I walked in and asked if I could offer the team my services,” he said. “After a long conversation with an athletic trainer—where I had an impromptu patient treatment—they plugged

me into the rotation where I treated athletes several days a week. Following a short trial period, the position was made official.”

Today, Dr. Stutz divides his time between practicing at Frisco Family & Sport where he cares for athletes of all abilities, and FC Dallas, where he treats athletes before, during and after games

A L U MN I F E A TU R E

“I get to plant the seed and spread awareness of the profession through education and care.”

– Dr. Jacob Stutz and practices. He also is on call for any immediate needs and often treats athletes for visiting teams.

Dr. Stutz credits his Logan education and years of playing soccer for helping build trust and credibility with his patients.

“I understand how they feel after an injury or practice, so there’s a higher level

of compassion as well as reporting and compliance from the athletes,” he said.

Because many of the international athletes speak little or no English or have never been exposed to chiropractic, Dr. Stutz often uses Spanish to educate and explain how chiropractic care can help. He enjoys this educational aspect of his job just as much as treating patients. “I get to plant the seed and spread awareness of the profession through education and care,” he said.

For someone who grew up playing soccer and is still passionate about the sport, Dr. Stutz said he’s living a dream.

“It just shows that the answer is always ‘no’ until you ask.”

LOGAN UNIVERSITY • FALL 2018 29

G R A D U AT I N G C LASS

Class of August 2018

Morgan K. Pearson Day

Marcos A. Villarreal

Justin M. Gregory

Ahmad M. Abdella

Lance D. Alexander

Alexander T. Andrews

Young Ho J. Bok

Kevin B. Duncan

Samuel E. Durbin

Jedidiah R. Farley

Christie A. Goebel

Kathryn A. Klix

Ronald T. Kuester

Sangwook W. Lee

Rosa A. Lopez

Katie I. Millang

Jessica A. Miller

Jenna F. Montana

Raymond A. Robinson

Alyssa L. Wedemeyer

Kyle J. West

Dylan C. Witthoft

Eric A. Wolf

President

30 FALL 2018 • LOGAN UNIVERSITY

Vice President

Secretary

Doctor of Chiropractic Graduates

Caitlin L. Cross

Abbie L. Parrish

G R A DU A TI N G CL A S S

Chad R. Smith

Treasurer

Education Coordinator

Athletic Director

Lauren N. Bremerman

Aaron A. Bryant

Sara L. Buchanan

Lance C. Bunting

Harrison L. Higgins

Emily L. Johnson

Kendal E. Johnson

Amari J. Kimble

Zachary T. Manwaring

Aaron C. Massa

Brittany D. Massa

Mallory L. Miles

Cassie C. Rodgers

Christopher M. Ruppel

David M. Sence

Richard C.J. Warden

Nathan J. Wright

Ashley E. Wunderle

Sean N. Wunderle

LOGAN UNIVERSITY • FALL 2018 31

R E C OG N I Z I N G S U CCESS BACHELOR OF SCIENCE DEGREES Life Science Patrick David Feldkamp Reggie Fiel Mitchel Israel Nathan Lax Chelsea Moore Jose Osorio Cassidy Suzanne Pascher Lauren Nicole Patterson Dana Nicole Pfau Braxton Roberts Aaron Schoenecke Jacob Schlosser Holden Stanfill Kyle Sutherland John R. Toenjes III Natalie Underberg Kyle A. Yates

MASTER OF SCIENCE DEGREES Health Informatics Debra Ann Drury** Summa Cum Laude Giddo Reggie Gonzales Magna Cum Laude Carmen Fronczak Geeta Regmi Sigdel Cum Laude

32 FALL 2018 • LOGAN UNIVERSITY

Nutrition and Human Performance Oluwafisayo A. Adekitan Magna Cum Laude Omar Hamed Aguilar Brittany Michelle Sharp Bailey** Summa Cum Laude Karen Peterson Brooks** Summa Cum Laude Kaitlyn Busam** Summa Cum Laude Nia Nicole Carrillo Cum Laude Haley Alexis Chakalos Raychell Clarke Magna Cum Laude Caitlin L. Cross** Summa Cum Laude Chris Dirth Sydney Elizabeth Drury** Summa Cum Laude Sumi Antonio Epie Sarah Lynn Hopping Estrella Summa Cum Laude Jackie Lee French Harmeet Kaur Grewal Cum Laude Krystle Nichole Griggs** Summa Cum Laude Diana Groff** Summa Cum Laude

Amanda Lynn Harry** Summa Cum Laude Harley Raider Herd Summa Cum Laude Nazaneen Baivar Heshmati Lily Anne Lauren Heun** Summa Cum Laude Harrison Logan Higgins Karletta S. Howard-Eberhardt Cum Laude Emily Joiner** Summa Cum Laude Michele Jones Stephanie Elizabeth Josepayt Carolyn Kleinberger** Summa Cum Laude

Megan Lee Lowe Cum Laude Taylor Luster Magna Cum Laude Jennifer Meadows** Summa Cum Laude Tasha Monique Milan Tracy Joanne Mills Taylor McKean Moore Magna Cum Laude Ryan Allan Oblander Cum Laude Heather V. Osuch** Summa Cum Laude Alan Page** Summa Cum Laude Mallory Pavilonis Knoll** Summa Cum Laude Marlene Farouq Qaqish Magna Cum Laude Megan Kathleen Quigley Summa Cum Laude Mary Catherine Reschke** Summa Cum Laude Samantha Sciavillo Summa Cum Laude Kelly Ann Scully** Summa Cum Laude Whitney Squires Cum Laude Sarah Jo Sugden** Summa Cum Laude Tahirih Thach Summa Cum Laude Stephanie K. Tyjeski Cum Laude

RE C O GN I Z I N G S U CCE S S President’s Honor Roll Young Ho James Bok Lauren Nicole Bremerman Jedidiah Richard Farley Kendal Elaine Johnson Amari Jarvien Kimble Morgan Kristine Pearson Day Richard Charles Jamieson Warden Class of August 2018 University Mission Awards Evidence Informed Award Alex Andrews College of Chiropractic Jocelyn A. Van Buren Magna Cum Laude Yvette Faline Waters, RDN** Summa Cum Laude Alissa Sarah White** Summa Cum Laude Brooke Anne White Kacie E. Wilson** Summa Cum Laude Maya-Lís Arolla Wright Cum Laude Sports Science and Rehabilitation Veronica Jae Buchanan Velizas Edward Dell** Summa Cum Laude Joshua L. Erickson, ATC Cum Laude Zachary Gassman Magna Cum Laude Benjamin Gokenbach Bryanna Hardin Summa Cum Laude Tim Herlihy Cum Laude Aaron J. Hochmann Justin Hochstetler** Summa Cum Laude Jessica L. Horine Cum Laude DeAngelo M. Howard Jr. Amari Jarvien Kimble Shawn Taylor McKenzie Randall Eugene Neal Derek Nelson

Diversity and Inclusion Award Lance Bunting College of Chiropractic

LOGAN LEGACIES Eric Anthony Wolf Father: Anthony C. Wolf, DC, FICC (1985) Sister: Caitlin M. Ziegler, DC, MS (2016)

FACULTY AWARDS College of Health Sciences Outstanding Faculty Award Dr. Atanas Ignatov

Sara Lynn Riegel** Summa Cum Laude David Matthew Sence Chad Ryan Smith Summa Cum Laude Erin Strickland Bashiru Ighodaro Sule Brian Edward Trautman Summa Cum Laude Alyssa Morgan Troutner** Summa Cum Laude Andrew Robert Whigham Alesha Widdall Magna Cum Laude

Maximize Human Performance Award Nathan Wright College of Chiropractic

University Basic Science Outstanding Faculty Award Dr. Atanas Ignatov

Maximize Human Performance Award Haley Chakalos College of Health Sciences

College of Chiropractic Outstanding Pre-Clinic Faculty Award Dr. Jane Wibbenmeyer

Maximize Human Performance Award Alyssa Troutner College of Health Sciences

College of Chiropractic Outstanding Clinic Faculty Award Dr. Jason Goodman

**Indicates Valedictorian Academic Achievement Award

Service Award Morgan Pearson College of Chiropractic

Hugh B. Logan Outstanding Faculty Award Dr. Jane Wibbenmeyer

Service Award Lauren Patterson College of Health Sciences

Hugh B. Logan Clinic Excellence Award Alexander Tyler Andrews

HONORS AND AWARDS Doctor of Chiropractic Summa Cum Laude Lauren Nicole Bremerman Kendal Elaine Johnson Morgan Kristine Pearson Day Richard Charles Jamieson Warden Magna Cum Laude Young Ho James Bok Jedidiah Richard Farley Amari Jarvien Kimble Cum Laude Nathan Joseph Wright Valedictorian Academic Achievement Award Morgan Kristine Pearson Day

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AD M I S S I O N S

Fall 2018 Doctor of Chiropractic White Coat Ceremony

34 FALL 2018 • LOGAN UNIVERSITY

A DMI S S I O N S

Fall 2018 Doctor of Chiropractic White Coat Ceremony

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Faculty and Staff News Congratulations to …

Karen Dishauzi, DC, PhD, MEd, professor, who was promoted to assistant dean of student success.

Melissa Engelson, DC, MS, CSCS, DACBSP, ICCSP, assistant director of Logan’s Human Performance Centers and instructor, who completed a two-week sports medicine rotation at the flagship Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado.

Kristina Petrocco-Napuli, DC, MS, FICC, who received a fulltime faculty appointment as a professor in the College of Chiropractic.

Logan University’s Student American Chiropractic Association named the following chiropractors as DC of the Month:

• June: Professor Patrick Montgomery, DC, MS, FASA • July: Dean of the College of Chiropractic Vincent DeBono, DC, CSCS • August: Associate Professor Dana Underkofler-Mercer, DC, MS • September: Professor and Chair of the Department of Radiology Norman Kettner, DC, DACBR, FICC • October: Founder of the Cox Flexion Distraction Technique James Cox I, DC, DACBR, FICC, Hon.D.Litt., FACO(H)

Class of 1986

Alumni Notes Congratulations to …

Class of 1978

In the Community On Oct. 1, Logan sponsored the first hole at the Chesterfield Kiwanis Annual Children’s Charity Golf Tournament. Christen Saccucci, Trimester 5 student,

Dr. Melissa Engelson at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs, Colorado 36 FALL 2018 • LOGAN UNIVERSITY

won the women’s longest drive contest, and Tyler Specht, Trimester 10 student, won the men’s longest drive contest. Also pictured (at right) are Jason Goodman, DC, senior clinician of preceptorships and assistant professor, and Linda Kenny, MA, director of career development.

Robert Hacker, DC on being honored by his peers as the Tennessee Chiropractic Association’s (TCA) 2018 Chiropractor of the Year for his significant contributions to chiropractic.

Jay Kessinger, DC, ND, DABCI, DACBN on being inducted as Member at Large of the Missouri Chiropractic Physicians Association’s Board of Directors at the 2018 annual convention.

Class of 1988 Robert Kessinger, DC, DABCI, DACBN on being sworn in as the President of the Missouri

Dr. Robert Hacker (center) receiving his 2018 TCA Chiropractor of the Year award

I N DU S TR Y U P DA TE Chiropractic Physicians Association at the 2018 annual convention.

Class of 2011 Ashley Madden, DC on opening her private practice—Madden Family Chiropractic—in San Diego, California.

Class of 2015 Tyler Rickelman, DC on being named to the Herald-Whig’s 2018 20 Under 40 list in Quincy, Illinois.

Class of 2015 and 2017 James Geiselman, DC, DACBN, MS, EMT-P on

completing his postdoctoral training and receiving his Diplomate from the American Clinical Board of Nutrition.

In Memoriam Class of 1977 Gene Bell, DC August 21, 2018

Logan Remembers Ron Grant, DC Ronald Grant, DC, member of the Logan Board of Trustees and former faculty member, passed away July 23 due to an ongoing health issue.

Associate Professor Patrick Montgomery, DC, MS, FASA, FICC, said that among some of Dr. Grant’s accomplishments were serving on the medical team for the 1976 Olympic Games and serving as executive director (as well as a charter member) of the American Chiropractic Association.

“He mentored many Logan students and faculty members during his long service to Logan,” he said.

A native of Joplin, Missouri, Dr. Grant graduated from National College of Chiropractic in 1963.

He was working as the director of information resources for the American Chiropractic Association in Arlington, Virginia, when he met former Logan President Beatrice Hagen, DC at a seminar in Toronto. It was Dr. Hagen who encouraged Dr. Grant to consider a move back to his home state.

Not long after that meeting, Dr. Grant started his Logan career as a health center clinician in 1988. Within two years, he was named chief of staff—a title he kept for seven years before he

decided to reenter the classroom … this time as teacher.

Over the course of 24 years, Dr. Grant taught physical therapy, orthopedics and medical ethics, and assisted in chiropractic technique courses and spinal analysis labs while maintaining a private practice in Chesterfield. Dr. Grant retired from teaching at Logan in 2011.

Then in 2013, he returned to Logan to serve as a faculty representative for the Board of Trustees. Upon accepting the position in 2013, Dr. Grant noted in an interview: “In my new role, I think I can really help the faculty and staff by understanding their concerns. I used to be one of them, and I almost consider myself still one of them. I want the faculty and staff to know that I am there for them.”

Logan Associate Professor and Clinician Dana Underkofler-Mercer, DC, MS, said Dr. Grant was the first person to provide guidance and mentorship when she joined Logan’s faculty. “He was always striving to create progress for the future of Logan,” she said. “He loved this institution, and he was so committed to consistently directing and connecting the doctors of our chiropractic profession. He was a true leader.”

Donations in Dr. Grant’s name can be made by emailing Alumni@Logan.edu or calling 1-800-842-3234.

Industry Organizations Take Part in Public Health Advocacy ACA Launches Online Learning System

The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) successfully rallied the support of 40 national and state Dr. David Herd chiropractic associations this summer to urge UnitedHealthcare (UHC) to withdraw a flawed policy that denied coverage of manipulative therapy for the treatment of headaches.

ACA’s letter to UHC featured relevant research that UHC had overlooked in its own review of spinal manipulative therapy as well as an impressive list of cosigners from supporting groups.

UHC restored coverage of manipulative therapy on August 1. “ACA is especially grateful to the 40 national and state chiropractic organizations that amplified our message and joined with us in Continued on page 38 LOGAN UNIVERSITY • FALL 2018 37

Industry Organizations Take Part in Public Health Advocacy Continued from page 37 our work with UHC to achieve the best possible result on behalf of patients,” commented ACA President N. Ray Tuck, Jr., DC. In other news, ACA launched Learn ACA, a new online learning system that makes it easier for chiropractors to access top-quality online education and earn their required continuing education units.

Learn ACA features a robust course catalog of education programs, presented by some of the profession’s most knowledgeable subject matter experts and respected thought leaders. Topics range from business management, evidencebased practice, coding, documentation, quality and safety, to diversity, nutrition, rehabilitation and more. There are also special programs focusing on information for the new practitioner as well as those who treat Medicare beneficiaries.

Continuing education courses cost $20 for ACA members and $40 for nonmembers.

Learn more at learn.acatoday.org.

FICS Plans General Assembly in Berlin

around and join in the excitement of the WFC Congress. It is bound to be a great week of learning and catching up. Keep an eye out for registration information and early-bird offers.

In late summer, FICS elected executive officers. Pete Garbutt returned as president, with Bradley Sandler of South Africa stepping into the first vice president role. John Downes of the United States remains as second vice president, Mercedes d’Acosta of Mexico stepped into the secretary position, and Brian Nook of the United States joins as chief of finances. This is a strong team that combines experience with enthusiasm— we’re excited to see the ideas they come up with!

One of the areas FICS plans to focus on in the coming year is increasing opportunities for students to gain experience through FICS events. Logan University students will be well placed here, with preference given to schools already supporting FICS. We hope to see some representatives from Logan in Berlin this spring, and we look forward to seeing Logan grads stepping into leadership roles in FICS in coming years.

WFC Welcomes Chiropractors From Around the Globe Excitement is building as FICS puts together its program for Dr. Pete Garbutt the FICS General Assembly in Berlin in March. Those of you who were in Washington last year will recall the vast lineup of speakers and hands-on workshops. A similar experience will be replicated in Europe, with some new speakers scheduled for those keen for a trip abroad. While you’re there, hang 38 FALL 2018 • LOGAN UNIVERSITY

The WFC will host two global events in the coming months: the WFC ACC Chiropractic Education Conference October 24-27 in London and the WFC Biennial Congress co-hosted with the European Chiropractors’ Union in Berlin March 20-23, 2019.

The theme of the Congress, EPIC2019: Global Opportunities in Spine Care, reflects the WFC’s #BeEPIC campaign, representing the need for chiropractors to provide evidence-based, patientcentric, interprofessional and collaborative

WORLD FEDERATION OF

CHIROPRACTIC care. As the world’s leading international Congress and scientific meeting for chiropractors, the event will attract delegates from many of the Dr. Richard Brown WFC’s 90plus member nations. More details can be found at EPIC2019.net.

The WFC also plans and coordinates World Spine Day, taking place Oct. 16.

This year’s theme is #LoveYourSpine; activities will be taking place globally to highlight the burden of spinal pain and disability.

During recent months, SecretaryGeneral Dr. Richard Brown has spent time in the WFC’s European, Eastern Mediterranean and North American regions, working with chiropractic leaders to promote emerging opportunities in public health, research and education.

Meanwhile, the WFC’s Disability and Rehabilitation Committee has submitted a dedicated rehabilitation competency framework for chiropractors in response to a call from the World Health Organization for expert input as part of its Rehabilitation 2030: A Call For Action initiative. The WFC Research Committee has recently added a new category on maintenance care to its suggested reading list (wfc.org/readinglist), while the Public Health Committee saw its white paper published in the leading journal Chiropractic & Manual Therapies.

2018 Founders Day

P O S TS CR I P T

Approximately 600 members of the Logan community celebrated Dr. Hugh B. Logan, Founder of Logan University, on September 19. The free, family-friendly event featured food, drinks, trivia, face painting, lawn games, music, giveaways and more.

LOGAN UNIVERSITY • FALL 2018 39

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TOWer THE MAGAZINE OF LOGAN UNIVERSITY

1851 Schoettler Road | Chesterfield, MO 63017

P OS TG R AD U AT E EDU CA T IO N | November 2018 – February 2019 November 10-11 Baseball & Sports Performance Conference Purser Center Special Event Multiple Instructors November 17-18 Basic Acupuncture – Session #3 Instructor: Zev Myerowitz, DC, Dipl.

Ac. (NCCAOM), Lac. December 1-2 Graduate Level Acupuncture – Session #1 Instructor: Zev Myerowitz, DC, Dipl.

Ac. (NCCAOM), Lac.

Location is Logan University Campus unless otherwise noted.

December 8-9 Basic Acupuncture – Session #4 Instructor: Zev Myerowitz, DC, Dipl.

Ac. (NCCAOM), Lac.

January 19-20 Basic Acupuncture – Session #5 Instructor: Zev Myerowitz, DC, Dipl.

Ac. (NCCAOM), Lac.

December 15-16 Endo-Nasal Technique Instructor: Michael Fiscella, DC, DABCO, FACO

January 26-27 The Insurance & Compliance Seminar for the Practicing Doctor of Chiropractic Instructors: Howard J. Levinson, DC, CFE, AHFI, DABFP Lisa Hart, DC, L.Ac., Dipl.Ac., MCS-P

January 12-13 Graduate Level Acupuncture – Session #2 Instructor: Zev Myerowitz, DC, Dipl.

Ac. (NCCAOM), Lac.

February 9-10 Basic Acupuncture – Session #6 Instructor: Zev Myerowitz, DC, Dipl.

Ac. (NCCAOM), Lac.

February 16-17 Graduate Level Acupuncture – Session #3 Instructor: Zev Myerowitz, DC, Dipl.

Ac. (NCCAOM), Lac. February 23-24 Microsystem Acupuncture Instructor: Gary Ditson, DC, L.Ac. For additional information and dates or to register for postgraduate seminars, visit Logan.edu/alumni-friends, call 1-800-842-3234 or email Postgrad@Logan.edu.