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The Controversy

The Controversy

Daniel David Palmer

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