Chiropractic care dates back to 1895. The discipline was developed by Daniel David Palmer, a self-taught healer in Davenport, Iowa. Palmer’s objective was to find a cure for disease and illness that did not use drugs. Palmer studied the structure of the spine and the ancient art of manipulation. Based upon the success of his first two cases, Palmer concluded that disease can be the result of spinal misalignment. As more people began to seek Palmer’s care, he refined his theory to state that many ailments were caused by the vertebrae impinging on spinal nerves. He called such impingements "subluxations". He believed that after adjustments to correct the proper alignment, normal brain and nerve transmission are restored and the body is able to resume its innate ability to recover from illness.

Chiropractors take a medical history in the same manner as other health-care providers. They then perform a physical exam focused on assessing the tone of the neuromuscoloskeletal system.

Since we understand that stress manifests itself physically, determination of joint, muscle and nerve tone and function is paramount. Identification of flexibility, strength, balance and alignment are all part of this exam. Review of x-ray, MRI and other studies may be necessary review. Once complete, identification of imbalances, restrictions and limitations are noted. A corrective course of therapy is prescribed.

To become a chiropractor in the U.S., a student typically begins with several years of undergraduate studies focused on biology and science. They then complete a 4 to 5 year program at a chiropractic college. The curriculum at chiropractic colleges includes anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, pathology, orthopedics, neurology, radiology, physical and lab diagnosis, general chiropractic analysis and adjusting techniques. Students are expected to complete an internship a an out-patient clinic owned and run by the college. Some states require that you have a bachelor’s degree and a chiropractic degree to practice.