Celebrating Chiropractic Founders Day: Honoring the Roots of Spinal Health

Happy Chiropractic Founders Day! Today, September 18, 2025, marks the 130th anniversary of a pivotal moment in healthcare history—the day chiropractic care was born. Whether you're a longtime advocate of natural healing or just curious about alternative medicine, this day is a perfect opportunity to reflect on how a single adjustment changed the world of wellness. In this blog, we'll dive into the origins, the key figures, and why chiropractic continues to thrive in modern times.

The Historic First Adjustment: A Deaf Janitor's Miracle

It all started on September 18, 1895, in Davenport, Iowa. Daniel David Palmer, better known as D.D. Palmer, performed what is now recognized as the first chiropractic adjustment on Harvey Lillard, a janitor who had been deaf for 17 years after a back injury. According to the story, Lillard felt a "pop" in his neck during an accident, leading to his hearing loss. Palmer, a magnetic healer at the time, examined Lillard and noticed a misaligned vertebra in his spine. With a targeted thrust, Palmer realigned it—and remarkably, Lillard's hearing began to return shortly after.

This event wasn't just a one-off success; it sparked Palmer's realization that spinal misalignments (which he called "subluxations") could interfere with the body's nervous system and overall health. This foundational principle laid the groundwork for chiropractic as a distinct healthcare profession, focusing on drug-free, non-invasive treatments to restore the body's natural ability to heal.

Who Was D.D. Palmer? The Visionary Founder

D.D. Palmer wasn't your typical medical pioneer. Born in 1845 in Canada, he moved to the United States and explored various healing arts, including magnetic healing—a popular alternative therapy of the era. His curiosity about the spine's role in health led him to develop chiropractic, a term he coined from Greek roots meaning "done by hand."

Just two years after that first adjustment, in 1897, Palmer opened the Palmer School of Chiropractic, the world's first chiropractic college. His son, B.J. Palmer, would later take over and expand the profession, turning it into a global movement. Despite early controversies and legal battles with the medical establishment, the Palmers' dedication ensured chiropractic's survival and growth.

The Evolution and Significance of Chiropractic Care

From its humble beginnings, chiropractic has evolved into a respected field with millions of practitioners and patients worldwide. Early on, it faced skepticism and even persecution—D.D. Palmer himself was jailed briefly for practicing without a license. But by the 20th century, chiropractic gained legitimacy through research, education, and regulation.

Today, chiropractors treat a wide range of issues beyond back pain, including headaches, sciatica, and even digestive problems, by focusing on the musculoskeletal system and its impact on overall well-being. Studies show that chiropractic adjustments can reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life, often as a complement to traditional medicine. In an era of rising healthcare costs and opioid concerns, chiropractic's emphasis on prevention and natural healing is more relevant than ever.

Chiropractic Founders Day, observed annually on September 18, serves as a reminder of this legacy. It's a time to honor the founders, celebrate advancements, and educate the public about the benefits of spinal health.

How to Celebrate Chiropractic Founders Day

Ready to join the festivities? Here are some fun and meaningful ways to mark the occasion:

• Schedule an Adjustment: Visit your local chiropractor for a check-up. It's a great way to experience the practice firsthand and support the profession.

• Learn More: Read books like "The Chiropractic Story" by B.J. Palmer or watch documentaries on the history of chiropractic.

• Spread Awareness: Share facts on social media using hashtags like #ChiropracticFoundersDay. Highlight how chiropractic promotes holistic health without drugs or surgery.

• Attend Events: Many chiropractic associations, like the International Chiropractors Association, host seminars, webinars, or community health fairs around this date.

• Practice Self-Care: Incorporate spine-friendly habits into your routine, such as proper posture, stretching, or ergonomic workspaces.

Whether you're dealing with chronic pain or just aiming for better wellness, chiropractic offers tools to align your body and life.

Wrapping Up: A Legacy of Healing Hands

As we celebrate the 130th Chiropractic Founders Day, let's tip our hats to D.D. Palmer and the countless chiropractors who've built on his vision. From that fateful adjustment in 1895 to today's evidence-based practices, chiropractic reminds us that true health often starts from within—literally, from the spine outward.

Here's to many more years of natural healing and vitality! Stay aligned, friends.

Dr. Elbert Chao D.C.

Leap Chiropractic