How Did Chiropractic Start? The History of Chiropractic
Have you ever been curious about the history of chiropractic? How did chiropractic start? The practice of joint manipulation dates back to ancient times, with writings describing its aim to help reduce spinal discomfort. Hippocrates, who lived in Greece from 460 to 357 B.C., is often thought of as the father of modern medicine, and it’s believed he encouraged others to “Get knowledge of the spine, for this is the requisite for many diseases.”
In the late 1800s, a man named D.D. Palmer founded the chiropractic profession. He was living in Iowa and practicing magnetic healing (which was a common therapy at the time), and with an interest in anatomy and medicine, he had an idea to look to create chiropractic medicine. From his research, he believed that removing interference affecting the spinal nerves via manipulations would allow the proper function of the spine and improve overall health. As such, he worked to create a new field of medicine that focused on spinal manipulation to improve an individual’s overall health.
The First Chiropractic Adjustment
A janitor called Harvey Lillard worked in the same building as Palmer. He had lost his hearing years prior, apparently after bending over and his back ‘popping’. Palmer assessed his spine and after finding a vertebra he thought was problematic, adjusted the segment and amazingly, Harvey’s hearing returned. This was the first chiropractic adjustment! Palmer continued to practice and found these hands-on treatments helped to relieve symptoms such as back pain and headaches. In 1898, he opened a school to teach his chiropractic techniques to others.
Chiropractic Care Today
In today’s society, chiropractic is found all over the world as a health profession. In Australia, it is a five-year double bachelor’s degree at university, and chiropractors are recognised and licenced under the AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency). As a part of the allied health profession, it has gained popularity and acceptance within the medical and general community for its benefits. It continues to grow with research evidence and is a safe, effective, and conservative healthcare option for all ages for musculoskeletal health. If you’re wanting to experience chiropractic care for yourself and your family, the Wilder Living team is here to support you on your wellness journey.
Begin Your Health Journey with Wilder Living
Wilder Living Chiropractic is committed to providing high-quality health care for you and your family. Our chiropractors focus on identifying the underlying cause of your symptoms and approaching your health holistically. We’re excited to journey with you in your pursuit of well-being.
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