The Controversy
D.D. Palmer, chiropractic’s controversial founder.
From the beginning, chiropractic has been the target of misrepresentation and illegal discrimination.
Colorful Personalities
The Palmers of Davenport, Iowa discovered and developed many of the principles of chiropractic. Both D.D. Palmer and son B.J. Palmer were flamboyant and charismatic. Their personalities and dogmatism produced vehement detractors.
Medical Monopoly
To hamstring the fledgling chiropractic profession, the American Medical Association prevented medical doctors from working with or referring to chiropractors. This illegal tactic ended in 1987 when the A.M.A. was found guilty in federal court. Nevertheless, the damage was done.
Wide Acceptance
Today, the profession of chiropractic is recognized and licensed worldwide. Currently 22 colleges graduate educated, compassionate and talented healers. Insurance companies and many government programs reimburse for chiropractic care. Chiropractic has come a long way since 1895.
Blood vs. Nerves
Traditional medical treatment relies on putting drugs into the bloodstream. Chiropractic care helps restore nervous system integrity by reducing subluxations. Two very different approaches:
| Medical Treatment | Chiropractic Care |
| Blood-based | Nerve-based |
| Treats symptoms | Corrects cause |
| Renders sickness care | Offers health care |
| Prescribes drugs | Makes adjustments |
| Sees body as parts | Sees whole person |
| Removes organs | Revives organs |
| Kills germs | Helps resist germs |
| Causes side effects | Produces positive effects |
| Artificial | Natural |
| Risky | Safe |