Random Fact #26

Rickets is a disease caused by a lack of vitamin D in the body.  This disease causes softening of the bone and the legs bow to try and support the weight of the body.  The disease is common in the underdeveloped world, where vitamin D is not as prevalent in the diet.  In North America, rickets is rare, however children who are always inside and never exposed to sunlight may also be susceptible to rickets.  

Random Fact #25

The Thyroid gland in the largest endocrine gland in the body weighing between 40-60 grams.  During fetal development it starts as little buds on the back of the tongue.  As it grows it migrates down the front of the neck and settles in front of the trachea leaving a duct along the way.  After birth the duct usually disappears however sometimes pieces of the duct remains and may become thyroglossal cysts.

Random Fact #24

Bilirubin is an important chemical that is responsible for the breakdown of red blood cells in the body.  It further breaks down and is responsible for the yellow color (notice the american spelling) in bruises, the brown color in feces and the amber color in urine.

Random Fact #23

"When testing flexion and extension of the Sacroilliac joint make sure to not to play piano on the patients rear end.  This is how lawsuits happen."

Dr. McCaffery.

Random Fact #22

Closing piece of advice for future chiropractors, from Dr. Sayers..."Make sure you buy a nice suit...you have to look good in court".

Random Fact #21

Spondyloptosis is a condition where the L5 vertebra slips forward and no longer articulates with the lower sacrum. This occurs during development or due to an acute trauma.

  

Although it looks like one of the most painful things that a person can ever endure; our professor told us that she saw one where the patient presented no symptoms and lived a normal life.  

Random Fact #20

Jim Elliot, the missionary to Ecuador who was killed by the native Waodani people grew up in the Portland area.  His mother studied to be a chiropractor at Western States.  His brother also was a chiropractor and became one of the presidents of Western States in the 1960's.