Why Chiropractic Works
Chiropractic began with a simple yet profound discovery by D.D. Palmer in 1895. He found that restoring movement to a misaligned vertebra in a deaf man’s spine improved his hearing. This observation led him to develop the understanding that the nervous system controls every function of the body and that interference along the spine can affect overall well-being (1).
The spine is more than a stack of bones; it protects the spinal cord, which acts as the body’s electrical wiring. When a vertebra shifts out of place, even slightly, it can cause nerve irritation. These interferences, which Palmer called subluxations, can disrupt communication between the brain and the rest of the body. By addressing these shifts, chiropractors aim to help the bodywork as it was designed.
The Nervous System’s Role in Health
Every function in the body, from digestion to breathing, depends on the nervous system. The brain sends signals down the spinal cord and through nerves to coordinate movement, immune responses, and emotions. If these signals are blocked or distorted by spinal misalignments, problems can arise.
Many people think of the spine in relation to posture or back discomfort, but its influence extends far beyond that. A misaligned vertebra may affect nerves connected to digestion, breathing, or muscle function. Since the nervous system oversees many processes, interference in one area can lead to effects elsewhere in the body.
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For Your Health,
Dr. Scott Van Dam
