Heidi Haavik

Dr. Heidi Haavik is one of the most popular and sought-after speakers in the chiropractic profession today. With a unique dual background as both a chiropractor (DC) and a neurophysiologist (PhD), Dr. Haavik has dedicated her career to investigating what happens in the brain when a chiropractor adjusts the spine. She is currently the Director of Research at the New Zealand College of Chiropractic and runs her own research company, Haavik Research. Her groundbreaking work has been published in high-impact scientific journals and is instrumental in explaining the mechanism of the chiropractic adjustment through the lens of neuroplasticity. Dr. Haavik is best known for her ability to translate complex scientific concepts into simple, "table-side" language that chiropractors can use to educate their patients. Her mission is to empower the profession with the scientific evidence needed to demonstrate that chiropractic care is about much more than just back pain—it is about brain function and human potential. In addition to her research, she is the author of The Reality Check: A Quest to Understand Chiropractic from the Inside Out and is the creator of the "Reality Check" website and educational platform, which provides resources for clinicians worldwide to better communicate the science of chiropractic. Areas of Expertise & Speaking Topics The Neuroplasticity Model: Understanding how spinal dysfunction (subluxation) affects the brain’s ability to process sensory information. The Prefrontal Cortex & Chiropractic: New research on how adjustments impact executive function, focus, and emotional regulation. Communicating Science to Patients: How to use the latest research to build a "brain-based" practice. Proprioception and Balance: Why spinal health is critical for falls prevention and athletic performance. The "Why" Behind the Adjustment: Moving beyond the "bone out of place" model to a modern, neurological paradigm. Credentials & Affiliations PhD in Human Neurophysiology (University of Auckland) Doctor of Chiropractic (New Zealand College of Chiropractic) Director of Research, New Zealand College of Chiropractic Board Member, Australian Spinal Research Foundation (ASRF) Award Recipient: Named "Researcher of the Year" by multiple international organizations, including the World Federation of Chiropractic (WFC) and the ICPA. Published Works The Reality Check: A Quest to Understand Chiropractic from the Inside Out (2014) Over 30 peer-reviewed scientific publications on the effects of chiropractic care on somatosensory processing and motor control.

Past Presentations