CHIROPRACTIC ORTHOPEDICS
DABCO: Diplomate of the American Board of Chiropractic Orthopedics
DACO: Diplomate of the Academy of Chiropractic Orthopedists
FACO: Fellow of the Academy of Chiropractic Orthopedics
Chiropractic Orthopedics is defined as being “that branch of orthopedics, the purposes of which are by non-cutting techniques, to prevent and correct deformities and to preserve and improve the function of bones, muscles, joints and their nerve supply when such function is threatened or impaired by defects, lesions or disease”.
Chiropractic Orthopedists are a different kind of chiropractor. They have ventured beyond standard chiropractic studies and must complete a 3 year residency (in-house post graduate training, 5-6 days a week for 3 years) or a 3 year post-graduate program (one weekend a month for 3.5 years). Following their extensive training they must pass a demanding examination process leading to Diplomate status of the American Board of Chiropractic Orthopedists (DABCO) or Academy of Chiropractic Orthopedists (DACO). Both Dr. Plaskett and Dr. Allen are board certified chiropractic orthopedists. Dr. Allen is one of only a dozen graduates around the world to have been subsequently invited to complete the 3 year in-house post-graduate program in Lombard, Illinois.
Chiropractic Orthopedists are Chiropractic physicians who can be licensed to practice in all 50 states, Canada and many other countries around the world. The Chiropractic Orthopedist has extensive, specialized training in examination and treatment procedures emphasizing primarily the neuromusculoskeletal structures of the body including the spine and extremities and related soft tissue structures. This involves conditions affecting the bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, and related nerve structures.
A Chiropractic Orthopedist successfully completing a rigorous examination process by a chiropractic orthopedist certifying body is a Certified Chiropractic Orthopedist and is eligible to become a Fellow of the Academy of Chiropractic Orthopedists (FACO). In April 2004, Dr. Allen demonstrated through his continued teaching, lecturing, consulting and educational endeavors competency for 3 year re-credentialing by the Academy.
The Chiropractic Orthopedist handles both acute health problems such as sports, occupational and other injuries, as well as more chronic conditions including arthritis, scoliosis, fibromyalgia, using advanced procedures of x-ray, magnetic resonance (MR) and computed tomography imaging (CT), DEXA scanning, nuclear medicine studies, diagnostic ultrasound, electrodiagnostic studies (EMG, nerve conduction) and clinical laboratory procedures to assist in the diagnostic process.
In the course of treatment, the Chiropractic Orthopedist may apply various manual medicine techniques and procedures, manipulative/adjustive procedures along with other treatments such as physiologic therapeutics, nutrition, joint supports, splints, casts, orthotics, corrective devices, therapeutic exercise and rehabilitative protocols, preventative care advice and home therapy programs for patient wellness.
The Chiropractic Orthopedist limits practice primarily to neuromusculoskeletal structures unless they have obtained further studies in other fields. They remain abreast of the latest research and developments through continuing education by attendance at chiropractic orthopedists seminars and conventions. Their certification status is maintained current through participation in post-graduate programs, lecturing and teaching of such programs, symposia and conventions.
The Chiropractic Orthopedist is often used by medical practitioners, physical trainers, physical therapists, the legal profession and the insurance industry for evaluation and treatment of patients, and the courts for giving expert testimony.
Patients who suffer from conditions which have not responded favorably to previous treatment may seek a doctor with specialized training in advanced non-surgical orthopedic procedures and diagnostic methods.
That doctor is a Fellow of the Academy of Chiropractic Orthopedists.