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A Brief History Of Chiropractic The grass roots of chiropractic can be traced back to 2700 B.C. and 1500 B.C. in China and Greece. Even Hippocrates, the Greek Physician, who lived from 460 to 357 B.C. wrote about the importance of chiropractic care. The modern reappearance of spinal manipulatioin was in the late nineteenth century. In 1895, Daniel David Palmer founded the Chiropractic Proffesion in Davenport Iowa. An Early patient if his Rev. Samual Weed suggested the name Chiropractic, which is derived from the Greek words Praxis and Cheir meaning practice by hand. By 1897 Daniel David Palmer had founded the first chiropractic school the Palmer School of Chiropractic which is still running strong today. Throughout twentieth century, the chiropractic proffesion gained legal recognition. Chiropractors were a small voice aggainst the heavily funded and developing medical profession. In 1913 Kansas was the first state to recognize and license the practice of chiropractic the last state was Louisiana in 1974. The effectiveness of spinal manipulation gained growing respect and recognition over North America and into Europe by 1939. As the research emerged from all over the world,so did popularity and demand for chiropractors. Even in the age of managed health care, studies from Canada and New Zealand and well as top noted Universities in the United states are proving the cost effectiveness of chiropractic care versus traditional Medical care. Doctors of Chiropractic have become pioneers in the field of non-invasive care promoting science-based approach to a variety of ailments. The continued dedication to chiropractic research will lead to more discoveries in preventing common injuies in a conservative manor. Chiropractic Philosophy The primary ideals behind chiropractic is to use conservative methods of care help the bodies natural ability to heal itself. Doctors of chiropractic have a deep respect for the bodies natural ability to heal itsel. This is done by evaluating the biomechanical, structural and functional components of the human body specifically the spine. By doing this we can affect the musculoskeletal and neurological system. By restoring proper function these systems work more efficiently in restoring health and preventing disease. Chiropractic treatment often includes a chiropractic manipulation or adjustment. This brings the joint safely through its NORMAL range of motion restoring proper mechanics so the body can begin healing correctly. Often exercises and nutritional advice are also given to help with rapid healing. The chiropractic perspective on health and disease emphasizes two fundamental concepts: 1) the structure and condition of the body influences how the body functions and its ability to heal itself; and 2) the mind-body relationship is instrumental in maintaining health and in the healing processes. Although chiropractic shares much with other health professions, its emphasis and application of philosophy distinguishes it from modern medicine. Chiropractic philosophy gravitates toward a holistic ("total person") approach to healing which combines elements of the mind, body and spirit and maintains that health depends on obedience to natural laws, and that deviation from such laws can result in illness. Widespread Use of Chiropractic Care The increasing interest in alternative forms of care has caught the attention of several health associations and government agencies. A 1993 study in the New England Journal of Medicine reported that "The estimated number of visits made in 1990 to providers of unconventional therapy was greater than the number of visits to all primary care medical nationwide," and chiropractic was among the most frequently used non-medical therapies. A followup report published in the Journal of the American Medical Association in 1998 found that the use of non-medical treatments had increased significantly since the 1990 survey, with "overall prevalence of use increased by 25%, total visits by an estimated 47%, and expenditures on services provided by practitioners of alternative therapies by an estimated 45%." Of the survey respondents, one in nine (11%) had used chiropractic care within the previous year. Healthy Tips for a Healthy Spine The following tips can help you take better care of your spine: 1) Make sure you have a firm mattress that keeps the spine aligned and supports the spine's natural curve. The best sleeping positions are on your back or side. 2) When standing for extended periods, rest one foot on a small stool to maintain spinal curvature and relieve pressure. The knees should be bent when bending forward. Low-heeled shoes may help by maintaining spinal curvatures and cushioning your weight. 3) Use chairs that promote good posture and support your back. Placing a lumbar support in the lower portion of your back may help support your spine's natural curve. Readjust the seat of your car so that your knees are level with your hips. 4) When bending forward, bend at the knees and hips, but keep your back straight. This will help to keep your spine's curvature in proper alignment. When lifting, keep your spine straight while using your legs to do most of the work. Hold the objects being lifted close to your body to keep the weight on your spine to a minimum. The ABCs of Subluxations Vertebral subluxations are displacements of the spinal bones (vertebrae) that can cause stress to your spinal cord and nervous system. Subluxations may be caused by poor sleeping habits, poor posture, strenuous exercise, injuries, auto accidents, sports, slips or falls, and in some cases, the birthing process itself. Chiropractic adjustments are very helpful in correcting subluxations and restoring optimal health.