Des Moines, Iowa-Des Moines, Iowa-The Foundation for Chiropractic Education and Research (FCER) is proud to announce the publication of two new products-a monograph entitled "The Chronicity of Pain Patients" and a patient education pamphlet called "Chronic Pain."

The monograph was written by Anthony L. Rosner, Ph.D., FCER’s Director of Research and Education. As with all of FCER’s publications-to ensure accuracy-the monograph underwent rigorous review by many notable persons: Dana J. Lawrence, D.C.; Meridel I. Gatterman, D.C., M.Ed.; Michael M. Patterson, Ph.D.; Charles Henderson, D.C.; Vincent P. Lucido, D.C.; and Ronald C. Evans, D.C.

This monograph examines the problem of chronic pain and evaluates chiropractic’s role as a potential solution. Based on the recommendations the Agency for Health Care Policy and Research (AHCPR) made for acute low back pain, the monograph discusses the current research supporting the use of chiropractic adjustments for the management of chronic pain, as well as the known contraindications, side effects, and benefits associated with patient satisfaction and cost. "Dr. Rosner’s monograph puts forth a number of mechanisms involved in pain generation and modulation, demonstrating theoretically how the chiropractic adjustment may affect the generation of a pain impulse," said Dr. Lawrence in the Foreword to the text.

Also examined in "The Chronicity of Pain in Patients," is the use of NSAIDs (as the other recommended modality from AHCPR) for pain control, including mechanisms by which various pain medications work, contraindications, and adverse side effects. The findings are compared and contrasted to chiropractic.

Adding to the credibility of the monograph are the 167 references and numerous tables and figures. This monograph is an essential addition to the D.C.’s library. It will also make an excellent presentation to other health care providers, interested attorneys, business contacts, and insurance companies, as it demonstrates the ability of the Doctor of Chiropractic to manage chronic pain.

Dr. Ronald Evans, FCER Board of Trustees member and practicing chiropractor, described the importance of this publication: "Dr. Rosner’s depth of understanding of the biochemistry of pain mechanisms and pain transmission is unparalleled. This, coupled with Dr. Rosner’s knowledge of conservative and holistic health care, makes this monograph a must read and a must use for every physician dealing with patients. The Monday morning patient with a pain experience lives in these pages. Dr. Rosner speaks to every doctor who has felt the frustration of dealing with a patient’s unending quest for relief of pain. Dr. Rosner’s clear writing, and scientific foundation of the monograph moves the physician easily through the mechanisms and experiences of pain. In understanding the biochemical reasons for the patient’s pain experience, the resolution for that pain appears. With this monograph, the physician has a new weapon to wage in the war against human suffering."

As a complimentary publication meant for patient education purposes, FCER has produced a pamphlet called simply "Chronic Pain." This pamphlet incorporates information from the monograph and presents it in a manner suitable for the layperson. Like the monograph, the pamphlet has been reviewed by practicing Doctors of Chiropractic for accuracy and usability in the practice. Included in the pamphlet is a visual analog scale for use by the patient when describing pain. The pamphlet is beautifully designed and encourages patients to seek chiropractic care for chronic pain.