History of Chiropractic

Chiropractic is the largest natural health care profession in the world, developed over 100 years ago, this conservative, drug-free, surgery-free approach to optimal health is based on the premise that the relationship between the body’s structure and function is a significant factor in your health. Chiropractic care focuses primarily on the integrity of the nervous system. Maintaining good structure allows the functions of the body to be in balance and allows your natural healing ability to flourish.

Since the first official chiropractic adjustment was performed on September 18, 1895, the practice of chiropractic has grown to over 50,000 doctors of chiropractic practicing in the United States alone. These doctors treat millions of patients with all types of health disorders.

How Chiropractic Works

Altered spinal function may interfere with nerve function in your body, causing not only back pain, but possibly other types of health problems. Your spine is designed to support your weight and protect your spinal cord, the direct link between your brain and the rest of your body. Since your spine affects the nerves in all parts of your body, problems in your spine may cause many types of health problems. Keep in mind that no healing art or specific treatment has all of the answers to all of the health problems people face. However, chiropractic has been successful in many cases where traditional treatments have failed. If your health problem does not respond to chiropractic care, your doctor of chiropractic will refer you to the proper health care specialist.

How Chiropractic Benefits the Patient

Doctors of chiropractic treat patients by using manual adjustments to parts of the body, especially the spine. A chiropractic adjustment is a specific manipulation of the spinal vertebrae or other areas that have abnormal movement patterns or are not functioning properly. These abnormal patterns are often referred to as subluxations. Adjustments are usually performed by hand and are gentle, precise maneuvers that require special knowledge of anatomy, as well as manual skill and dexterity. Each doctor of chiropractic tailors her/his adjustments to fit each specific patient’s unique needs.

Long Term Wellness with Chiropractic Care

The road to a healthy life includes maintaining your body’s natural healing ability and practicing preventive health care. Chiropractic is a whole person approach to health care that targets the cause of the problems, rather than just the symptoms. Regular chiropractic care, along with good nutrition, stress management, and sufficient exercise can help you become and remain a healthy human being.

In the United States, doctors of chiropractic are licensed and hold advanced degrees in the area of physical health care.  Additional training is required for certification in specialized fields such as sports injuries, nutrition, or pediatrics. Currently there are 15 colleges that provide accredited chiropractic degree programs.