What is Chiropractic Care and Where Did it Come From?

Modern chiropractic had its beginnings in 1875 when D. D. Palmer discovered that bony alignment of the spinal column could have an effect on the nerves that exited from it. A man with a hearing impairment was his first success story. Feeling the spinal alignment of his spine, DD Palmer found a vertebra "out" and applied a high velocity low amplitude force to the area. The man's hearing was restored and chiropractic was born.

The value of chiropractic may have been lost forever had it not been for DD's son BJ Palmer. He is said to be the promoter of chiropractic realizing the power of this healing technique.

Although father and son were at odds with each other most of their lives, their contribution to health care cannot be denied. Chiropractic has evolved from its early beginnings as primarily an upper spinal technique to where it is today a full spine holistic approach to healthcare.

Many spinal manipulation techniques have developed over the years since 1875 including manipulation for extremities, the cranial bones of the skull and internal organs and muscles. Though the technique used to manipulate the spine can vary widely from one practitioner to another, the outcome is the same, relief from pain and often relief from underlying organic disorders with a restoration of health.

When the nervous system is operating properly without interference the body will heal itself. This is called innate healing, the body's natural ability to heal and repair. But this cannot happen efficiently when the communication in the body is disrupted. Although not without merit, drugs and surgery do just that, disrupt the body's natural healing process. Chiropractic seeks to facilitate the process.

Chiropractic is a well researched safe and effective health care option. Additionally, our government has included chiropractic in its healthcare reform package a far cry from the early days when chiropractors were actually jailed for their practices. It was a great situation for the inmates perhaps but not so much for their appreciative patients on the outside. Regardless of the history, chiropractic has gained in popularity and its effectiveness proven both clinically and scientifically.

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Dr. Rita Filley, DC