WHEREAS, the years we live in good health, without major chronic illnesses and disability, are known as our healthspan; and, along with cardiovascular health, metabolic health, and other factors, musculoskeletal (MSK) health is an important factor in extending healthspan; and

WHEREAS, the composition of the bones, muscles, and joints in the MSK system enables us to remain physically active as we age, and physical activity is one of the most powerful contributors to health and longevity; and

WHEREAS, a strong MSK system helps us to continue working and engaging in daily activities as we age, enabling us to maintain independence while also contributing to better balance and helping to prevent falls that can lead to disability and death among the elderly; and

WHEREAS, a strong MSK system contributes to better balance as we age, helping to prevent falls that can lead to disability and death among the elderly; and

WHEREAS, in the United States, musculoskeletal conditions are a common cause of chronic pain and result in more than 130 million healthcare visits annually, making them the number one reason people visit their doctor; and

WHEREAS, worldwide, back pain is the single leading cause of disability and, historically, one of the most common reasons that people in the United States are prescribed opioids; and

WHEREAS, the number of people worldwide living with back pain is projected to increase by 36% to more than 840 million over the next 30 years; and

WHEREAS, doctors of chiropractic medicine are experts in musculoskeletal health and offer a variety of non-drug approaches to treat common musculoskeletal conditions such as back pain, along with advice on nutrition, injury prevention, ergonomics, and lifestyle modifications for optimal health and wellness; and

WHEREAS, guidelines for the treatment of low back pain/chronic pain by the American College of Physicians, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and other groups support the use of noninvasive, non-drug approaches such as spinal manipulation as a first line of defense against back pain, before the use of pain medications and surgery; and

WHEREAS, with the theme “Chiropractic: Plan for a Strong Healthspan,” National Chiropractic Health Month 2024 reminds citizens of Virginia that chiropractors can help maintain and improve their musculoskeletal health throughout their lifetime, contributing to a strong healthspan;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Glenn Youngkin, do hereby recognize October 2024, as CHIROPRACTIC HEALTH MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.