The story of chiropractic dates back to 1895, when D.D. Palmer performed what is widely recognised as the first chiropractic adjustment in Davenport, Iowa. Two years later, he established a school dedicated to teaching chiropractic.
Healthcare has changed enormously since then, and chiropractic has changed with it. Today in Australia, chiropractic is a regulated health profession, with education, registration and professional standards guiding practitioners.
Chiropractic Care Today
Modern chiropractic care focuses on the musculoskeletal system, including the muscles, joints and spine.
People may visit a chiropractor at different stages of life and for different musculoskeletal concerns. Care should always reflect the individual, including their health history, current needs and personal circumstances.
That individual approach can be particularly important as we get older. Someone who has stayed active for decades may have very different needs from someone getting back into movement after a long break.
Staying Active as You Age
Throughout this series, we’ve looked at movement, strength and mobility as we age. Chiropractic care doesn’t replace those healthy habits, but for some people it may form part of a broader approach to musculoskeletal health.
Regular movement, appropriate strength exercises and mobility work can all play a role in maintaining an active lifestyle. If pain or stiffness is making activity difficult, consider speaking with an appropriately qualified health professional about your individual needs.
“What I value about chiropractic is how the profession continues to evolve. After more than a century, we’re still learning, adapting and tailoring care to the person in front of us.” — Dr Glenn Neil (Chiropractor)
Still Moving Forward
Looking back at 131 years of chiropractic is a reminder of just how much healthcare can change.
It also brings us back to the message behind this series: getting older doesn’t mean giving up on being active. Our bodies naturally change with age, but movement and appropriate exercise can remain valuable parts of looking after ourselves throughout life.