Presidents Day is a time to reflect on leadership, service, and the people who support those in positions of great responsibility. While we often think of advisors, cabinet members, and security teams, there is another group working quietly behind the scenes to keep leaders performing at their best: healthcare providers.
One lesser-known part of presidential history is the role chiropractic has played at the highest levels of government.
A Chiropractor in the White House
During the presidency of George W. Bush, chiropractic care became part of the medical resources available to top government officials. Dr. William E. Morgan, D.C., served in a unique and historic role within the federal healthcare system.
Dr. Morgan was appointed “Chiropractor to Congress” in 2000, working within the Office of the Attending Physician, the medical team responsible for caring for members of Congress and other federal leaders. He was later appointed as the personal chiropractor to President George W. Bush, and President Bush is widely believed to have been the first U.S. president to formally have a chiropractor serving in this role within the White House medical system.
Integration into Military Medicine
Dr. Morgan also helped establish one of the first chiropractic clinics at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, contributing to the broader integration of chiropractic care into military healthcare. Because back and neck injuries are common among service members, chiropractic became one of the non-surgical, drug-free options available to help maintain mobility and readiness. Today, chiropractic services are available in many military and veterans’ healthcare settings.
A Presidents Day Reflection
The presence of chiropractic care in places like Congress, the White House, and military medical centers highlights how important movement and spinal health are for people in all walks of life from service members to families in our own communities.
If you’ve been curious about chiropractic care, consider starting with a consultation to learn more about your health and see if it’s a good fit for you. Taking care of your body is one of the best investments you can make in your long-term health.
