Chiropractic, << `ky` ruh PRAK tihk, >> is a system of health care that emphasizes the relationship between structure and function in the body. Doctors of chiropractic believe that good health depends, in part, on the normal alignment of the body’s parts, and that misalignments–called subluxations–can be a major factor in illness. Chiropractors consider proper alignment of the spine to be of critical importance because of its central role in nervous system’s function. Proper nerve function is essential in restoring and maintaining good health.
Chiropractic treatment often consists of manual manipulation of the spine or other body parts to restore proper alignment. Such manipulations are called adjustments. Studies have shown that chiropractic adjustments can relieve pain and structural disorders in the joints and muscles and ease lower back pain. Techniques of physical therapy are often used to promote the effects of treatment (see Physical therapy ). Claims that chiropractic can cure diseases have never been proved scientifically.
In the United States and in several other countries, the practice of chiropractic is regulated. The laws of all U.S. states and Canadian provinces prohibit chiropractors from prescribing drugs or performing major surgery. Oregon permits chiropractors to perform minor surgery and deliver babies.
The American Medical Association (AMA) has a long history of opposition to chiropractic. In 1967, the AMA ruled that it was unethical for physicians to associate professionally with chiropractors. In 1987, however, a federal judge ordered the AMA not to interfere with relationships between physicians and chiropractors. In 1992, the AMA changed its code of ethics to allow referral of patients to chiropractors whenever the physician feels it may benefit the patient. Some hospitals now allow chiropractors to practice in their facilities. The granting of hospital privileges has led to the development of a new procedure called “manipulation under anesthesia.” This procedure, performed while the patient is under anesthesia, allows the chiropractor to make more vigorous adjustments of the spine.
The chiropractic method was founded by Daniel David Palmer, an Iowa merchant, in 1895. Two years later, Palmer established the first college of chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa.
Today, the United States has many accredited chiropractic colleges. Each offers a four-year program that leads to the degree of Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.). Additional information may be obtained from the American Chiropractic Association, which has headquarters in Arlington, Virginia.
