Spring Convention

 

Join us in beautiful Traverse City for the MAC Spring 2026 Convention & Exhibition—Michigan’s must-attend chiropractic continuing education event of the year! Located on Grand Traverse Bay, the Grand Traverse Resort is the perfect family-friendly destination offering a variety of award-winning restaurants, an acclaimed spa, on-site shopping, childcare facilities with close proximity to casinos, museums, winery tours, shopping, and more!

So, bring your family, your colleagues, and your chiropractic spirit! This is one convention you won’t want to miss! Parking is free and there is a shuttle to the local casino just a few miles away.

This year’s theme, “Chiropractic Through the Decades,” celebrates the evolution of our profession in style. Dress in your favorite era! From the revolutionary 60s and swinging 70s to the electric 80s…or even the elegant 1890s, when chiropractic was born.

Accommodations

Our room block at the Grand Traverse Resort will be held until April 3, 2026 (or when the block is full). After April 3rd, we cannot guarantee rooms will be available. In the event we sell out we will have other hotels available within 5 min of the resort. 

 PLEASE BE SURE TO RESERVE YOUR ROOM AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. A dedicated website is now available for you to book your hotel room online by clicking here which is recommended due to limited staffing that is still being seen in the hotel industry. Or call (800) 968-7352 and let them know you are with the MAC to receive our special rates.

Condo’s must now be booked through the online reservations page only. While booking, scroll past the tower rooms and you will see the condo options.

Please note: (v) is for valley view (t) is for terrace view and (g) is for golf view. These are the 3 closest to the resort. The Grand Traverse did not offer us as many valley view condos in the room block this time, however, after you make your reservation you can put “valley view preferred” in the additional requests box and while they cannot guarantee availability, they will try to meet requests.

SPEAKER INFORMATION:

Biohacking the Brain & Polyvagal in Practice: From Neurodevelopment to Neurodegeneration

Sponsored by Bioligent

Course Description

Friday, 4-8p and Saturday, 8-11a
7 CEs available – includes Pain Management

A dysregulated nervous system is a dysregulated brain. In this dynamic presentation, Dr. Buerger explores the full spectrum of the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease, from neurodevelopment to neurodegeneration, and shows how chiropractic adjustments play a critical role in healing the nervous system to optimize health. Attendees will learn how to apply the principles of Polyvagal Theory, understand the gut-brain-immune-hormone axis, and implement neuro-nutritional and lifestyle strategies to enhance patient outcomes across all ages.

BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. Monika Buerger is a chiropractor, exercise physiologist, and applied neuroscientist with more than three decades of clinical experience. An internationally recognized speaker, author, and educator, Dr. Buerger is known for her expertise in neurodevelopment, functional neurology, and translating complex neuroscience into practical, clinically relevant applications.

A Clinical Introduction to MVX Plus and Metabolic Health

Sponsored by MVX Plus

Course Description

Friday, 4-8p
4 CEs available – includes Pain Management

This class introduces MVX Plus (Metabolic Vulnerability Index), a clinical framework designed to measure the underlying metabolic environment in which chronic disease and mortality develop. Participants will learn how MVX Plus is used to measure, guide, and track improvements in health, moving beyond traditional “risk factor” models that often fail to reflect true health status or longevity.

The course explores the 6 core factors of MVX Plus and presents the 7-Step Blueprint to Optimal Health, including its 100-year historical foundation. Real-world clinical examples are used to demonstrate how MVX Plus can be applied in practice to support meaningful, measurable health outcomes.

BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. Darren Schmidt is a chiropractor and clinical nutritionist who has spent over 25 years uncovering the root causes of chronic disease. He is the founder of the Nutritional Healing Center of Ann Arbor, the largest non-insurance nutrition clinic in the United States. Dr. Schmidt is widely known for reviving the clinical relevance of lactic acidosis and has become the leading practitioner applying MVX PLUS testing in root cause medicine. Through his research, case studies, and teaching, he is helping providers across the country apply MVX PLUS to track real physiological change and deliver measurable results.

Changing the Game: Merging Sports Medicine with Pregnancy Care

Sponsored by Foot Levelers

Course Description

Friday, 4-8p
4 CEs available – includes Pain Management

This course challenges traditional approaches to prenatal care by applying principles from sports medicine to chiropractic care for pregnant patients. Dr. Brandie Keates demonstrates how to optimize maternal function, mobility, and comfort through targeted chiropractic strategies that respect the unique needs of pregnancy. Attendees will explore assessment techniques, treatment adaptations, and protocols designed to enhance performance, support well-being, and empower patients throughout all stages of pregnancy. By the end of the session, chiropractors will have practical tools to elevate care, improve outcomes, and apply a performance-focused approach to prenatal chiropractic.

BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. Brandie Keates, founder of Bloom and Experience Chiropractic, has over 20 years of expertise in empowering pregnant and postpartum women through evidence-based chiropractic treatment. Renowned for merging sports medicine with pregnancy care, she collaborates closely with medical doctors to deliver comprehensive, research-backed support. An award-winning leader, speaker, and educator, she is transforming the prenatal and postpartum health landscape.

Evolving Models of Care: The Essential Role of Patient Understanding in Clinical Outcomes

Sponsored by iChiro

Course Description

Saturday, 8-11a
3 CEs available

In this three-hour course, Dr. Michael Kwast examines how patient understanding drives behavior, compliance, and clinical outcomes. Attendees will explore why chiropractic utilization remains low, how symptom-based care creates confusion, and how shifting to a function-focused model improves results. Through practical explanations and real-world demonstrations, participants will gain strategies to improve patient education, staff communication, and long-term care engagement

BIOGRAPHY:

Michael Kwast, DC, CSCS is the CEO of Peak Performance Integrated Medicine and iChiro Clinics in Grand Rapids, Michigan, where he has built a multi-location, multi-million-dollar practice focused on function-based care and patient education. A graduate of Palmer College of Chiropractic and a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist, Dr. Kwast is known for translating complex clinical concepts into clear, actionable strategies that improve patient outcomes and practice performance.

From Adjustments to Chiropractic Philosophy Into Scalable Influence

Sponsored by Blue Rhino

Course Description

Saturday, 8-10a
2 CEs available

Explore how hands-on skill and chiropractic principles extend beyond the treatment room to shape patient understanding, long-term engagement, and community impact. This course examines practical methods for communicating chiropractic philosophy, reinforcing care consistency, and creating meaningful patient experiences rooted in professional excellence. Attendees will leave with a clearer framework for translating chiropractic principles into everyday interactions that elevate patient trust, understanding, and outcomes.

BIOGRAPHY:

James Chester is a leading chiropractic media advocate and the host of Chiro Hustle, one of the profession’s most recognized podcasts. Through more than 1,300 interviews and multiple chiropractic documentary projects, he has dedicated his work to elevating the voice of chiropractic and educating audiences about subluxation-based care. As a faculty member with Chiropractic Foundations, Chester continues to support professional growth by promoting chiropractic principles, communication, and advocacy within the profession.

AI-Enhanced Patient Education and Communication Through Social Platforms

Sponsored by Blue Rhino

Course Description

Saturday, 10-11a
1 CE available 

Explore how AI can support clearer, more meaningful patient education while amplifying your voice in the community. This engaging session demonstrates how to transform your knowledge and philosophy into consistent, relatable content that builds trust and strengthens connection. Attendees will learn the top AI hacks a doctor can integrate into their practice on Monday, along with the ‘how to,’ leaving them ready to communicate with greater impact, authenticity, and reach.

BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. Ryan Hummel is a chiropractor and clinic owner known for running one of the busiest practices in San Diego while expanding into innovative patient engagement technology. Drawing on years of hands-on clinical leadership and digital systems experience, he has helped clinics improve communication, efficiency, and patient access to care. As co-founder of Blue Rhino AI, Dr. Hummel brings forward-thinking solutions to healthcare practices, blending chiropractic insight with modern tools that support growth and patient connection.

Chiropractic 2.0: Brain-Based Communication and Measurable Care

Sponsored by CNS Technologies

Course Description

Saturday, 2-4p
2 CEs available 

This two-part course introduces a modern brain-based framework for communicating chiropractic value while integrating objective metrics into everyday patient care. Participants will explore how translating findings into clear, measurable language shifts conversations from symptom focus to performance and function, strengthening patient understanding and engagement. The program then demonstrates how advanced neuro-metrics can guide case decisions, support progress tracking, and enhance care planning. Attendees will leave with practical strategies to connect data, communication, and patient outcomes in a way that is both meaningful and immediately applicable in practice.

BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. Trevor Colm is a chiropractor and innovator focused on advancing brain health through technology-driven clinical tools. As the founder of CNS Technologies, he developed Cortex Brain, an EEG platform designed to bring real-time neurological insight into everyday chiropractic and concussion care. His work bridges chiropractic principles with neuroscience and AI, helping clinicians better measure, understand, and support brain-based recovery.

One Cause, One Cure

Course Description

Saturday, 2-6p
4 CEs available 

Explore the foundational philosophy of chiropractic care in this interactive workshop based on Fred Barge’s classic book One Cause, One Cure.  Attendees will examine the concept of a single cause of dis-ease and the role of chiropractic in addressing the underlying cause rather than merely managing symptoms. And yes, with Billy DeMoss presenting, the session promises to be both educational and entertaining.

BIOGRAPHY:

Billy DeMoss, DC, is a celebrated chiropractic philosopher and speaker whose passion for ChiropracTIC brings his presentations to life with insight, humor, and energy. He challenges chiropractors to think deeply about the profession’s core principles and inspires them to connect philosophy with purpose in every aspect of practice

Lumbar Rehab: When to Prescribe Flexion vs. Extension vs. Neutral Spine Exercises

Relevant Rehab: Cervico-thoracic Spine: Functional Assessment and Rehab

An Evidenced Based Approach to Ethics and Boundaries

Sponsored by NCMIC

Course Descriptions

Saturday, 4-6p
2 CEs available – includes Physical Measures

Lumbar Rehab: When to Prescribe Flexion vs. Extension vs. Neutral Spine Exercises

Effective lumbar rehab requires more than a one-size-fits-all approach. This practical course teaches clinicians how to determine when flexion, extension, or neutral spine exercises are most appropriate based on patient biomechanics and stage of care. Attendees will review core stability principles, patient selection strategies, and targeted exercise progressions to support recovery from acute injury through return to function. Clinicians will leave with clear, low-tech tools they can immediately apply to deliver more precise, individualized lumbar rehabilitation.

Sunday, 8-10a
2 CEs available – includes Physical Measures

Relevant Rehab: Cervico-thoracic Spine: Functional Assessment and Rehab

Cervico-thoracic postural pain is increasingly common in today’s technology-driven world. This practical course teaches clinicians how to assess mobility versus stability dysfunction using static and dynamic evaluation methods, then apply targeted corrective exercises and treatment strategies. Participants will learn techniques to address forward head posture, rounded shoulders, and thoracic imbalance while safely guiding patients through acute, subacute, and corrective phases of care. Attendees will leave with tools they can immediately implement in practice.

Sunday, 10a-12p
2 CEs available – Includes Ethics and Boundaries

An Evidenced Based Approach to Ethics and Boundaries

Ethics and boundaries are evolving alongside modern patient care. This dynamic, evidence-based course gives clinicians practical tools to navigate real-world ethical challenges with confidence. Through engaging discussion and clinical case studies, attendees will explore the four pillars of ethics, informed consent, cultural sensitivity, social media boundaries, and documentation considerations. Special focus is placed on protecting both patient and provider during active care and soft tissue treatment.

BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. Donald C. DeFabio is Director of Chiropractic Services at DeFabio Spine and Sports Rehab and a triple board-certified specialist in orthopedics, rehabilitation, and sports injuries. An award-winning clinician and nationally recognized educator, Dr. DeFabio lectures nationwide on practical, evidence-informed rehabilitation strategies clinicians can immediately apply in practice

The Mind Body Connection: Revitalize Your Practice Through Neurological Advancements

Sponsored by Erchonia

Course Description

Saturday, 2-6p and Sunday, 8a-12p
8 CEs available – includes Pain Mangement and Physical Measures

This course explores how modern chiropractic neurology bridges brain and body function to address conditions such as traumatic brain injury, neurodegeneration, pain, inflammation, and gut-brain dysfunction. Dr. Trevor Berry guides attendees through neurophysiology, patient evaluation, and evidence-informed applications including advanced chiropractic care, laser therapy, nutrition, and objective outcome testing. Attendees will gain a practical framework for recognizing neurological influences on patient health and applying targeted clinical strategies with greater precision and confidence.

BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. Trevor Berry is a board-certified chiropractic neurologist with more than two decades of clinical, teaching, and research experience spanning neurology, rehabilitation, and functional medicine. As owner of the Arizona Chiropractic Neurology Center, he integrates cutting-edge neurological and laser-based therapies with patient-centered care. A nationally recognized educator and FDA research investigator, Dr. Berry is dedicated to advancing evidence-informed neurological applications in chiropractic practice.

Functional Neurology for Traditional Chiropractic

Course Description

Sunday, 8a-12p
4 CEs available – includes Pain Mangement and Physical Measures

Functional neurology doesn’t replace traditional chiropractic care, it enhances it. This fast-paced, clinically focused course gives doctors practical neurological assessment and treatment tools to better manage difficult cases. Attendees will learn how to identify key clinical markers, perform focused neuro exams, and apply targeted rehab strategies for common chiropractic complaints including neck and back pain, headaches, dizziness, concussion, and movement disorders. Emphasis is placed on real-world application, helping clinicians immediately integrate functional neurology principles to improve patient outcomes beyond pain relief.

BIOGRAPHY:

Dr. James Ross Muldoon is a chiropractic neurologist and founder of the Michigan Chiropractic Neurology Center in Wixom, Michigan. A graduate of the University of Michigan and Life University, he earned his Diplomate in Chiropractic Neurology through the Carrick Institute and has completed extensive postgraduate training in concussion rehabilitation, movement disorders, and brain-based care. Dr. Muldoon is passionate about helping chiropractors integrate practical functional neurology tools to enhance patient outcomes.

DC/CA Class:

AI, Superpower or Kryptonite?

Relevant Rehab: Cervico-thoracic Spine: Functional Assessment and Rehab

Sponsored by GoldStar Medical Business Services

Course Descriptions

Saturday, 2-4p
2 CEs available

AI, Superpower or Kryptonite?

AI is not going away.  In this course we will explore the rapidly changing landscape of Advanced Technology and Artificial Intelligence, and how it’s being used (and misused) in Healthcare Settings.  There are some amazing AI driven tools that can help providers with their documentation compliance and efficiency.  CA’s can use advanced technology and AI to better manage patients, billing, and research.  We will also look at how AI is being used by insurances companies to automate claims adjudications and audits, why their algorithms are often flawed, and discuss what you can do about that.  

Saturday, 4-6p
2 CEs available

Understanding Medicare and Medicare Advantage

This course will educate DC and CAs on the Medicare rules for Coding and Documentation Compliance.  The similarities and differences between Medicare Part B and Medicare Advantage plans will be reviewed, along with the specific billing and coding requirements for Medicare Advantage billing.  Attendees will learn how to identify Medicare Advantage Patients and verify benefits.  Rules for Out of Network Medicare Advantage billing will be reviewed. 

BIOGRAPHY:

With over 40 years of experience in medical administration, Lisa Maciejewski-West is a nationally respected educator and consultant in medical billing, coding, and compliance. She is a Certified Medical Coder, Medical Office Manager, and Medical Compliance Officer, known for her practical, real-world approach to helping medical professionals navigate complex administrative and regulatory challenges.

CA Classes:

Patient Drop-Off…Part 1: Retention + Reactivation Systems for Cas and Part 2: How CAs Turn Patient Communication Into Revenue

Sponsored by ChiroConnect

Course Description

Friday, 4-8p and Saturday, 8-11a

Stop losing patients and start maximizing every connection. This two-part course equips CAs with practical tools, scripts, and systems to strengthen retention, reactivate lapsed patients, and turn everyday communication into revenue. Attendees will learn how to track results, support care plans, and create measurable impact in the clinic. By the end of the sessions, you will know exactly how to keep patients engaged and returning without adding stress to their daily workflow. You don’t want to miss this!

BIOGRAPHY:

Nerissa Brumley is a chiropractic email marketing expert and the founder of Chiro Connect, a human-powered email marketing service built exclusively for chiropractors. With more than 15 years in the chiropractic profession, she specializes in patient retention, reactivation, and helping practices turn consistent communication into measurable revenue. Her work blends strategy with execution, giving practices systems that are realistic, sustainable, and actually used by teams.

Chart Auditing Workshop: How to Audit your Own SOAP

Sponsored by GoldStar Medical Business Services

Course Description

Sunday, 8a-12p

One of the seven elements of an Effective Healthcare Compliance program is “Internal Auditing and Monitoring”.  In this hands-on, interactive workshop, you will learn how to analyze and audit your own SOAP notes so you can fulfill this mandate.  We will take the mystery out of “what is a compliant SOAP note” and help you identify ten key elements that must be present in your notes.  We will conclude with actual in-class case studies that you can pick apart and analyze, so you can feel confident in your own ability to audit your own documentation.  

BIOGRAPHY:

With over 40 years of experience in medical administration, Lisa Maciejewski-West is a nationally respected educator and consultant in medical billing, coding, and compliance. She is a Certified Medical Coder, Medical Office Manager, and Medical Compliance Officer, known for her practical, real-world approach to helping medical professionals navigate complex administrative and regulatory challenges.

Special Events:

Saturday, 11a

Celebrate the Chiropractic Through the Decades theme in this high-energy plenary session that honors the profession’s legacy while unveiling an ambitious vision for the future. Following the President’s address, a dynamic lineup of keynote speakers will deliver fast-paced, TED-style talks showcasing new, cutting-edge wellness initiatives, occupational health programs, and value-based care pathways shaping the next generation of chiropractic. Discover how the MAC and MCF are leading powerful coalitions to advance the profession, challenge insurance discrimination, and expand opportunity across all areas of care. This inspiring session connects decades of progress to the momentum ahead, empowering attendees to help define chiropractic’s next era.

Friday, April 24: 9a Shotgun Start

The Bear at Grand Traverse is one of the toughest tests in golf, and this spring you can experience it firsthand with your chiropractic colleagues! Designed by golfing legend Jack Nicklaus, The Bear is one of the Midwest’s finest golf experiences and is sure to provide golfers of every skill level with a fun challenge. Cost is $95/pp, which includes greens fees, cart, and a coupon for the 9th hole café for a quick lunch on the course. Sign up by April 6th using the registration form.

Palmer and National

Saturday, April 25: 12-2p.

Join your fellow alumni for these informative lunch presentations sponsored by Palmer and National. Hear updates and news from your alma mater while enjoying a great meal with your college friends and chiropractic colleagues. Note: Lunches are FREE for alumni, but you must pre-register. Use the registration form or go to www.chiromi.com.

Saturday, April 25: 6-7p.

Our “Chiropractic Through the Decades” theme continues at this fantastic Saturday evening reception! Immediately following classes, join us in the Exhibit Hall for another opportunity to connect with vendors and colleagues! Snacks and refreshments will be available as you make your way through the hall, and there just might be some chances for you to win some fabulous prizes! Don’t miss this last chance to meet and greet your peers and our loyal vendors in an informal setting this weekend! 

“Chiropractic Through the Decades”

Saturday, April 25: 9-11p.

Step into the spotlight at our VIP Decade Party! Dress to impress in the iconic styles of your favorite era and get ready for a night to remember. Presidents, Ambassadors, and Century Club members are invited to mix, mingle, and celebrate in style. Enjoy throwback beats, delicious hors d’oeuvres, and an open bar while connecting with your peers and MAC leadership. It’s an exclusive celebration you won’t want to miss, and it just might be the party of the decade!

The MAC silent auction is back! Our incredible exhibitors and sponsors have donated some excellent items, and this year KT Lynn Events will also be on site with their awesome collection! KT Lynn travels across the nation with their silent auction items, helping organizations like the MAC maximize our donations. Their items include sports, entertainment, and even presidential memorabilia, and includes such items as spine art, autographed guitars, helmets, jerseys, purses, fine jewelry, and much more! Make sure you check out everything they have to offer!

Winners Drawn at Saturday Night Reception, 6-7p

Be sure to join the fun and play our Exhibitor Game during the convention. Visit the booths of participating vendors and get tickets, chat with our supportive vendors and perhaps use a phrase from your favorite decade like “groovy” or “where’s the beef” or better yet purchase their product or service and you can stack your odds to win fabulous prizes, including CA$H. Winners will be announced during the Saturday Night Reception, 6-7p in the Exhibit Hall. Don’t miss it!

Thank You, Sponsors!

Coming soon