Chiropractic: origins, controversies, and contributions

Area of Science:

• Integrative Medicine
• Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM)
• Health Policy

Background:

• Chiropractic is a prominent alternative medicine profession in the US healthcare system.
• The profession has a complex societal position marked by internal diversity and external challenges.
• Historical context reveals significant internal strife and opposition from conventional medicine.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide a comprehensive overview of chiropractic.
• To examine its history, theoretical underpinnings, and professional development.
• To assess the scientific evidence base and its approach to medical practice.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and historical analysis.
• Examination of theoretical frameworks and scientific evidence.
• Analysis of the profession's societal and internal dynamics.

Main Results:

• Chiropractic exhibits a contradictory societal position with internal factionalism and external opposition.
• Despite challenges, the profession has maintained unity and commitment to patient care.
• The central tenet of spinal abnormality correction remains a subject of debate.

Conclusions:

• Chiropractic's core theories are debated, but its influence on the patient-physician relationship is a key contribution.
• The profession navigates a complex landscape of internal and external pressures.
• Further research may clarify chiropractic's role and efficacy in healthcare.