Since joining the NUHS research community in 2004, Claire Johnson, DC, MSEd, PhD, DACBSP, FICC, Professor and Editor of NUHS Journals, and Bart Green, DC, MSEd, PhD, DACBSP, Lecturer and Associate Editor of NUHS Journals, have been steadfast pillars of discovery and inquiry. Often called the Dynamic Duo by their colleagues, Dr. Johnson and Dr. Green’s combined dedication to research has shaped their careers spanning two decades at NUHS. 

They have each conducted hundreds of published research projects. Early on, their topics of research reflected their diverse interests. Dr. Johnson delved into education research on using clinical reasoning testing formats, clinical case reports, and historical research about research and science in the chiropractic profession, while Dr. Green explored areas such as sports injuries, chiropractic education, and chiropractic history. Over the years, they have strived to make a positive impact through their work. 

“I like doing research with people from all walks of life.  The activity of research and publishing brings us together for a common purpose and a good cause – to advance our knowledge and to help others,” Dr. Green said. 

Today, Dr. Green has shifted to musculoskeletal epidemiology as his main area of focus, particularly the investigation of the associations of musculoskeletal problems and other health conditions, such as cardiovascular disease and mental health concerns. Dr. Johnson’s interests, meanwhile, have expanded to include a broader range of topics. With a PhD in public health, she has developed greater focus on health promotion and community health overall.    

“I enjoy seeing positive change,” she said. “therefore, I am drawn to research that educates others about complex topics. I also enjoy working in interdisciplinary groups.” 

Dr. Johnson and Dr. Green contributed to the research program called, The Global Spine Care Initiative, that developed an evidence-based model of spine care to help people better care for patients in clinical practice. The program involved working with an international group of health care professionals from 24 different countries. 

Although their interests span a wide range of topics, both Dr. Green and Dr, Johnson share an equal enthusiasm for NUHS’s pioneering efforts in providing a platform for published science. 

“The chiropractic profession did not have a bona fide scientific journal until National stepped up, took on that responsibility, and created the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics in 1978,” Dr. Green said. “That National gave the profession what it desperately needed – published science – says volumes about the uniqueness of the institution, and its unwavering commitment to its motto, Esse Quam Videri.” 

Dr. Johnson added that National has always been the leader in evidence-based practices even before that term existed. “NUHS leadership has vision and dedication to provide the best possible educational programs, as well as providing evidence through the journals to support what graduates do in practice,” she said. 

The duo’s journey serves as a testament to the transformative power of research and the boundless opportunities it presents. For those thinking about performing research themselves, Dr. Green suggests starting small to make sure it’s the right fit. 

“Many people are enamored by research,” he said. “Nobody really knows if they are going to like doing it until they have tried. Starting with a small project, such as a case report or research review for an association newsletter can be a litmus test to see if it is something motivating and enjoyable.”  

Even those who don’t conduct research can still get involved. 

“Everyone can contribute to and support research,” Dr. Johnson said. “Simply reading current scientific literature and subscribing to relevant journals makes you a part of the research environment.”