What Our Chiropractors Learned at the ICS Fall Convention
Fresh ideas on joint care, healthy aging, and whole-person health
By Dr. Vijay Patel, DC, CCSP® | Advanced Physical Medicine & Therapy, Mount Prospect, IL
October 15, 2026 • 4 min read
Health care changes fast. New research comes out every year, and good care keeps up with it. That’s why Dr. Hannah Synon and I spent a weekend at the Illinois Chiropractic Society (ICS) Fall Convention. Here are a few of the ideas we brought home to our patients in Mount Prospect.
Why Do Chiropractors Keep Learning?
Continuing education is part of being a licensed chiropractor. But for our team, it’s about more than checking a box. Learning keeps us curious. It helps us find new ways to support your health.
At events like the ICS convention, we hear from experts in many fields. We talk with other doctors, ask questions, and compare notes. Then we bring the most useful ideas back to our office, so you benefit too.
Do Chiropractors Only Treat the Spine?
Many people think chiropractors only work on the back and neck. In fact, we also care for the extremities. That means your arms and legs, and the joints that help you move.
At the convention, I went to a lecture by Dr. Brandon Steele on extremity care. I learned some of the newest techniques for common problems in joints like your:
Many people in our community deal with pain or stiffness in these areas. New techniques give us more options when we build a care plan with you. Learn more about our chiropractic care.
How Can Baby Boomers Stay Strong and Mobile?
Baby boomers are people born between 1946 and 1964. They make up about 1 in 5 Americans. Another lecture I went to focused on how to care for this group.
One big lesson stood out: staying active is about more than walking. As we age, our bodies tend to lose muscle. That can make everyday tasks harder. To help protect strength and movement, older adults may want to focus on:
- Strength training to help keep muscle
- Mobility exercises to help joints move well
- Enough protein in their daily diet
- Certain supplements, such as creatine, which researchers are studying for muscle support
Talk with your provider before you start a new exercise plan or supplement. They can help you choose what is safe for you. Dr. Synon and I can help create a comprehensive rehab plan with our multidisciplinary team.
How Is Your Whole Body Connected?
Good health does not stop at the spine. Dr. Synon came home with two ideas from Dr. Silverman’s lecture that show how connected our bodies are.
Your gums matter more than you think. You may have heard of the gut microbiome. That’s the helpful bacteria in your digestive system. Researchers are now also studying the bacteria in your mouth. New studies suggest gum health may be linked to brain health as we age. Brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits are simple steps that may pay off for years.
Meet the vagus nerve. This nerve runs from your brain to many of your organs. It helps your body rest, digest, and calm down. Researchers are studying how it may help control inflammation throughout the body. It’s a good reminder that your nervous system plays a part in your overall health.
Did you know? About 1 in 5 Americans is a baby boomer. For this group, strength and mobility work may matter just as much as daily walks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do chiropractors need continuing education?
Yes. Licensed chiropractors in Illinois must complete continuing education to keep their license. Our team also attends events like the ICS convention to stay current with new research.
Can a chiropractor help with knee, shoulder, or wrist pain?
Chiropractors are trained to evaluate and care for joints outside the spine, including knees, shoulders, and wrists. Your provider can tell you if chiropractic care is a good fit for your symptoms.
Is walking enough exercise as I get older?
Walking is great, but it is not the whole picture. Adding strength and mobility exercises may help protect muscle and keep your joints moving well.
Why does gum health matter for my overall health?
Research suggests your mouth may affect your health beyond your teeth. Brushing, flossing, and dental checkups are an easy way to support your overall health.
This content is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. It does not replace a consultation with a licensed healthcare provider. If you are experiencing pain, symptoms, or health concerns, please contact our office or consult a qualified medical professional. Individual results vary.
Dr. Vijay Patel, DC, CCSP®
Dr. Vijay Patel has cared for patients in Mount Prospect since 1999. He is a past president of the Illinois Chiropractic Society and chairs the fundraising work group for the national Chiropractic Future Strategic Plan. Outside the office, you can find him at the Mount Prospect Lions Club Farmers Market or at the hockey rink. Learn more about Dr. Patel →
Ready to Put New Ideas to Work for You?
Our team at Advanced Physical Medicine & Therapy, 350 W. Kensington Rd., Suite 102, in Mount Prospect, IL, is here to help you move and feel your best. Call us at 847-222-9060 or book online.