This History of Chiropractic timeline captures the key moments in the development and recognition of the chiropractic profession, emphasising the contributions of D.D. Palmer and B.J. Palmer.
Circa 460-370 BCE
Hippocrates' Manual Therapies
Hippocrates, often considered the “Father of Medicine,” wrote about manual therapies, including spinal manipulation, in his medical texts. He emphasised the importance of the spine in overall health.
D.D. Palmer Begins Practicing Magnetic Healing
Before founding chiropractic, D.D. Palmer practiced magnetic healing, which influenced his understanding of the body’s healing processes.
1887
1895
First Chiropractic Adjustment
D.D. Palmer performed the first chiropractic adjustment on Harvey Lillard, marking the birth of chiropractic care.
Founding of Palmer School of Chiropractic
D.D. Palmer established the Palmer School of Chiropractic in Davenport, Iowa, which became the cornerstone for chiropractic education.
1897
1902
B.J. Palmer Joins Palmer School of Chiropractic
B.J. Palmer, D.D. Palmer’s son, joined the Palmer School of Chiropractic and began to take an active role in the development of the profession.
Arrest of D.D. Palmer and B.J. Palmer Takes Over Palmer School
D.D. Palmer was arrested and convicted for practicing medicine without a license. Following this, B.J. Palmer took over the management of the Palmer School of Chiropractic and started expanding its influence.
1906
1910
Development of Chiropractic Philosophy and Introduction of X-ray Technology
D.D. Palmer published “The Chiropractor’s Adjuster,” a book outlining the principles and philosophy of chiropractic care. B.J. Palmer also introduced the use of X-ray technology (referred to as “spinography”) in chiropractic diagnosis, significantly advancing the profession’s diagnostic capabilities.
Formation of the Universal Chiropractic Association (UCA)
The UCA was formed to defend chiropractors who were being prosecuted for ‘practicing medicine without a license’.
1922
1924
Development of the Neurocalometer
B.J. Palmer introduced the neurocalometer, a device designed to detect spinal subluxations by measuring heat differences along the spine. This device was controversial but influential in chiropractic history.
Publication of "The Science of Chiropractic"
B.J. Palmer published “The Science of Chiropractic,” a comprehensive text that outlined the principles and practices of chiropractic care as he saw them.
1930
1941
Formation of the National Chiropractic Association (NCA)
The NCA was established, which later became the American Chiropractic Association (ACA). This organisation aimed to promote and protect the chiropractic profession.
Establishment of the International Chiropractors Association (ICA)
B.J. Palmer founded the ICA, which became a significant organisation representing chiropractors who supported Palmer’s straight chiropractic philosophy.
1944
1961
B.J. Palmer's Death
B.J. Palmer passed away, leaving a legacy that profoundly shaped the chiropractic profession.
Formation of the Federation of Chiropractic Licensing Boards (FCLB)
The FCLB was formed to create uniform standards for chiropractic licensure and regulation.
1963
1974
Recognition by the U.S. Office of Education
Chiropractic colleges received accreditation from the Council on Chiropractic Education (CCE), recognized by the U.S. Office of Education.
Formation of the Chiropractors' Association of Australia (CAA)
The CAA was established to represent the interests of chiropractors in Australia and to promote the profession.
1975
1980
Chiropractic Integration into Healthcare
Chiropractic care began to gain more acceptance within the broader healthcare community, with increased integration into hospitals and health insurance coverage.
Publication of the Manga Report
The Canadian government’s Manga Report supported the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of chiropractic care for low back pain, bolstering its legitimacy.
1996
2000
Veterans Affairs (VA) Inclusion
Chiropractic services were included in the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) healthcare system, providing access to chiropractic care for veterans.
National Registration and Accreditation Scheme
Australia implemented the National Registration and Accreditation Scheme, standardising the regulation of chiropractors across the country under the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
2010
2010 - Present
Expansion of Chiropractic Research
Increased funding and publication of chiropractic research contributed to a growing body of evidence supporting the effectiveness of chiropractic care for various conditions.