Course Outline And Syllabus

Chiropractic Neurology shall be considered that branch of Chiropractic that deals with the definitive diagnosis, and subsequent management of conditions afflicting the human nervous system. Chiropractic Neurology has evolved because of a need in the health care delivery systems for neurological specialists who appreciate the integral relationship between the spinal, and peripheral body articulations, and their profound influence on proper somatic and visceral neurological functions.

This postgraduate neurology program has been instituted under the auspices of Northwestern Health Sciences University; a CCE accredited Chiropractic Graduate Institution.  Individuals who successfully complete this program of advanced post-doctoral training are eligible to receive a certificate of completion from Northwestern Health Sciences University.  Hours accrued toward the Certificate may be applied toward the Neurology Diplomate.    

Purpose and Objectives
The general purpose of this educational program is to advance the ability of the Doctor of Chiropractic to be able to identify and differentially diagnose lesions, defects, or disorders of the neuro-musculo-skeletal system.

Objectives:

• To better understand the anatomy of the central nervous system.
• To appreciate the nature of the pathophysiological changes common to neurological diseases.
• To recognize the signs and symptoms and differentiate the condition through case history, physical, clinical, x-ray and laboratory procedures.
• To understand current information regarding cervical spinal manipulation and cerebrovascular accident.
• To appreciate issues relevant to professional boundaries.

4.  To select those cases necessitating further study or referral.

Subject Matter
The subject matter of this course of study is reflected in the contained individual session outlines below. This course is divided into two sessions that form a logical sequence.  However, each class is an individual module that can be taken as a part of the entire program, or as a single learning session. 

Program Method
The program consists of a total of 24 hours of lecture and laboratory sessions.  There are 2 total sessions; each composed of twelve hours, conducted on campus at Northwestern Health Sciences University.

These classes are to be considered class study sessions that must be taken concurrent with active general practice or clinical residency.  The weekend study sessions are not considered the totality of effort required for the desired level of clinical knowledge and proficiency; independent outside study is a necessity.

Methods of Instruction-Class methods predominantly consist of:

• Lectures with and without visual aids.
• Video presentations and/or practical demonstrations.
• Clinical Rotations via Video Rounds.
• Grand-Round-Style patient presentations.
• Supplementary notes provided on CD-ROM.
• Question and answer periods of informal discussions.

Nov 7-8, 2009:  Session I - 12 Hours
Introduction to Chiropractic Neurology
Clinical Neuroanatomy and Functional Neurology: The Brain

Sat, 1pm-7pm
Hour #1-2:    Introduction to chiropractic neurology; Anatomy of the skull and spine
Hour #3-6:    Video Dissection of the cervical spine; Cerebral cortex                                

Sun, 8am-2pm
Hour #1-2:    Extra pyramidal system; meninges; arteries, veins and cerebrospinal fluid
Hour #3-4:    Basal Ganglia; Thalamus; Hypothalamus; Reticular system;
Hour #5-6:    Midbrain (mesencephalon); Pons; Medulla Oblongata; Cerebellum; Grand                             Rounds

Dec 12-13, 2009:  Session II - 12 Hours
Clinical Neuroanatomy and Functional Neurology: The Spinal Cord

Sat, 1pm-7pm
Hour #1-3:    Spinal cord; Spinal Cord Syndromes
Hour #4-6:    Meninges; Arterial and venous CNS circulation; Cerebrospinal fluid

Sun, 8am-2pm
Hour #1-4:    Chiropractic Cervical Adjustments and Stroke: The Facts
Hour #5:       Professional Boundaries
Hour #6:       Grand Rounds