Happy Birthday Chiropractic! Celebrating Over a Century of Spinal Wisdom

Did you know that every year on the 18^th of September, chiropractors around the globe quietly (and proudly!) celebrate the birthday of chiropractic. This special day marks the moment back in 1895 when a man named Daniel David Palmer – or D.D. Palmer as we know him – performed the very first chiropractic adjustment. And oh, what a ripple effect that adjustment had…

Who was D.D. Palmer?

D.D Palmer was a Canadian-born healer living in Davenport, Iowa, USA. He was a curious soul – a magnetic healer, philosopher, and a deep thinker. He believed that many ailments stemmed from problems in the spine affecting the nervous system.

So, on the 18^th of September 1895, he adjusted a janitor named Harvey Lillard, who had reportedly lost his hearing 17 years prior after a back injury.

After the adjustment, Lillard’s hearing improved – and just like that, chiropractic was born.

D.D. Palmer named this new healing art “chiropractic” – a combination of the Greek words “cheir” (hand) and “praktikos” (practical), meaning “done by hand”. It was a hands-on approach to health that focussed on the spine and nervous system – and it’s still transforming lives today.

Fascinating Facts About Chiropractic

• Chiropractic is the third-largest regulated profession in the world, after medicine and dentistry.
• There are over 100,000 chiropractors worldwide, with thousands practising across the UK.
• The first chiropractic patient wasn’t seeking help for back pain – it was for hearing loss.
• D.D. Palmer’s son, B.J Palmer, is often credited with developing chiropractic into a global profession. A real family legacy!

Spinal Health Tips & Tricks – From My Heart to Yours

As we celebrate chiropractic’s birthday, here are some simple, effective tips to keep your spine happy between adjustments:

• Move a little, often: Sitting is the new smoking! Get up every 30 minutes and stretch, wiggle or walk.
• Check your sleep set-up: A supportive mattress and pillow make all the difference. Aim to sleep on your back or side – no front sleeping and avoid being curled like a prawn!
• Mind your neck: Tech neck is real. Raise your screen to eye level and take digital breaks.
• Hydrate your discs: Your spine needs water too – drink regularly to keep those discs juicy and resilient.
• Don’t ignore stress: Mental tension can lead to muscle tension. Breathe deeply, rest well, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
• See your chiropractor regularly: Don’t wait for pain – prevention is powerful.

Let’s Celebrate!

On the 18^th of September, whether you’re booked in for an adjustment or just feeling grateful for the power of a healthy spine, take a moment to thank your body for carrying you through life – and give it the care it deserves.

Here’s to 130+ years of hands-on healing, natural health, and a better connection between brain and body. Happy Birthday Chiropractic!

With love,

Sophie