Chiropractic is a healing discipline firmly grounded in science. Although its main focus is the relationship between the skeleton (particularly the spine) and the nervous system that runs through it, chiropractic is concerned with the care of the entire body. Chiropractors use various diagnostic methods, including x-rays, to understand the state of your health, paying particular attention to your spine and bone structure. The profession-specific terminology of “adjustment” involves the spine as one of the primary procedures of care.

The word chiropractic comes from a combination of the Greek words “chiro” and “praktikis”, meaning “done by hand”. “Treatment by hand” was an accepted form of therapy in ancient Greece. Hippocrates, who is regarded as the founder of medical inquiry, made the first recorded references to spinal manipulation.

1995 marked the 100th anniversary of the evolution of modern chiropractic. In recognition of this milestone, centennial celebrations were held across Canada and throughout the world. Canada Post issued a commemorative stamp in recognition of the centennial of the profession, and to honour its Canadian founder, Dr. Daniel David Palmer.