Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #108655

Ron Kirk, MA, DC, College of Chiropractic, Life University, 1269 Barclay Circle, Marietta, GA 30060, 770.426.2709, rkirk@life.edu and John K. Hyland, DC, MPH, Parker Research Institute, PO Box 3007, Bridgeport, CT 06605.

Objective: To develop a set of simple and engaging postural improvement and spinal health exercises that could be practiced on a daily basis. Methods: An expert seed panel was convened consisting of 5 doctors of chiropractic with expertise in health promotion through physical activity. This group conducted a series of electronic prioritization surveys to select exercise domains and shape specific exercises for a pilot spinal exercise module. They also developed accompanying lifestyle recommendations. A 90-member Delphi panel was then recruited from a broad spectrum of the chiropractic profession, including many chiropractic college presidents and clinic directors, researchers, fitness experts, and international, national and state organization leaders (including representatives of the World Health Organization). This panel reviewed and commented on the exercise module and accompanying lifestyle recommendations using an electronic Delphi review process. Based on the input from the Delphi panel, the seed panel further refined the postural exercise module and accompanying lifestyle recommendations and then obtained user feedback on the module's efficacy regarding postural improvement and improved spinal comfort. Results: Analysis of user feedback surveys from pilot research participants indicates that practicing the module daily increases postural awareness and enhances spinal function. Conclusions: This project shows promise as a public health promotion initiative for the chiropractic profession. The "Straighten Up" exercises and lifestyle recommendations can serve as self-care tools to improve posture and promote spinal health. While widespread implementation remains challenging, the consensus processes used in the development of this initiative should ensure wide-ranging support from the chiropractic profession.

Learning Objectives: Attendees at this session will be able to

• List the 2 major consensus processes used in the development of this health promotion initiative.
• Describe and perform 4 of the spinal health exercises included in the program.

Keywords: Self-sufficiency and Empowerment, Consensus

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.

Recorded presentation