A new approach to hypothyroidism

Benjamin Brown

A life of continued learning captivates Macquarie University student Benjamin Brown, who is currently working towards his Master of Science (Honours) while employed as a chiropractor.

Brown, who commenced his academic life in 1998, has so far completed his Bachelor of Chiropractic Science, Master of Chiropractic and a Postgraduate Certificate in Research Preparation.

To enter his Masters by research program, he completed a Postgraduate Certificate in Research Preparation which is designed to introduce students to research techniques.

“It was an opportunity to gain a solid background in my current project,” says Brown. “It provided me with all the skills needed to keep going.”

The research topic that Brown is undertaking, a new approach to hypothyroidism, will see him research a biopsychosocial-based treatment (ie an interaction between biological, psychological and social factors) for the condition.

“The current medical treatment for hypothyroidism is quite reductionist in its thinking,” explains Brown. “If thyroid hormone levels are low, they are rectified via supplementation using synthetic thyroid hormone. There is very seldom the view to find out what factors may have contributed to the hypofunctioning gland.”

Brown will examine the effect of the chiropractic Neuro-Emotional Technique on hypothyroidism. “I was very interested in this particular technique and how it works, and this is the reason I decided to undertake my Masters,” explains Brown.

With his research project recently approved by the University, Brown is currently awaiting funding to commence the trial. He has applied to the Australian Spinal Research Foundation for a grant and hopes to advertise for participants towards the end of this year.

The trial will involve some 70 participants who will have their thyroid hormones, cholesterol levels, heart rate, and temperature measured. They will then receive 10 treatments over a six-week period and be reassessed at intervals of six weeks, six months and one year. Those participating will still continue their current treatment regime throughout the trial.

Brown hopes to prove that a biopsychosocial-based treatment for hypothyroidism may help modulate thyroid hormone levels and some of the signs and symptoms of the condition.

“This type of intervention is non-pharmacological and represents a more rounded or holistic approach to the treatment of this chronic disease,” says Brown. “If this type of treatment is effective, it may replace the life long pharmacological supplementation that occurs in modern hypothyroid treatment.”

For further information contact Brown’s supervisor Associate Professor Rod Bonello: rbonello@els.mq.edu.au

December 2004