In the Introductory Module for our discussion of Chiropractic's Philosophy, early concepts, based upon DD Palmer and BJ Palmer's ideas were presented. In Module 3, our discussion on this topic will continue, with the focus more upon the Scientific aspects of the Vertebral Subluxation.

In this section, you will be provided an overview of the Modern Chiropractic Theories.

CHIROPRACTIC TREATMENT

As mentioned in the discussion about the History of Chiropractic, D.D. Palmer felt that he had created a new method of manipulation, which he termed the Adjustment, aimed at specifically identifying the CAUSE of the problem. While some practitioners still hold to this concept today, we will compare in a future Module the Chiropractic Adjustment to other forms of manipulation.

The Chiropractic Philosophy strongly stresses, that to let the body heal itself, the Cause of the problem must be removed. In the case of Chiropractic, it is the Spinal Fixation which must be removed in order to let the body's Nervous System communicate freely and properly with the rest of the body. DD felt that by dealing with the cause of the problem in a specific manner, the patient would be better helped. Chiropractic Treatment, then, is accomplished by Adjusting the specific area of the spine which is not moving properly.

A simple analogy to understanding this concept, would be that of trying to pick an apple from a tree. Under other methods of manipulation a long, slow motion is utilized. The apple desired will be picked, along with a lot of other, unwanted, apples.

Under the Chiropractic form of manipulation, the adjustment, a short, quick thrust, aimed at reducing or eliminating the Vertebral or Spinal Fixation, is utilized, and only the desired apple is retreived (affected).

This, to many, is the Primary difference between manipulation performed by a Chiropractor vs. other Professions who utilize manipulation (Osteopaths, Physical Therapists, etc.).