History and overview of theories and methods of chiropractic: a counterpoint

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Clin Orthop Relat Res. 2006 Mar;444:243-9.

History and overview of theories and methods of chiropractic: a

counterpoint.

DeVocht JW.

Palmer Center for Chiropractic Research, Davenport, Iowa, USA.

Spinal manipulation has been used for its therapeutic effects for at

least 2500 years. Chiropractic as we know it today began a century

ago in a simplistic manner but has developed into to a well-

established profession with 33 colleges throughout the world. During

the initial, bumpy years, many people thought it had little more

value than a placebo. Nevertheless, there have always been satisfied

recipients of chiropractic care during the years, and the profession

slowly gained prominence--mostly by word of mouth. More recently,

personal opinions based on isolated incidents have given way to the

results of numerous clinical and basic science studies, primarily

regarding low back pain. As of 2002, 43 randomized trials of spinal

manipulation for low back pain had been published with 30 showing

more improvement than with the comparison treatment, and none showing

it to be less effective. Other studies have shown that chiropractic

care compared with medical care is safer, costs no more and often

costs much less, and has consistently greater patient satisfaction

for treatment of similar conditions. Consequently, there is now

better public and professional opinion of chiropractic with coverage

by insurance companies and government agencies. That trend is likely

to continue.