The scope of practice of chiropractic is defined by the RHPA follows:

      "The practice of chiropractic is the
      assessment of conditions related
      to the spine, nervous system and
      joints of the extremities and the
      diagnosis, treatment and
      prevention of dysfunctions or
      disorders arising from the 
      structures or functions of the
      spine and the effects of those
      dysfunctions or disorders on
      the nervous system, primarily
      by the adjustment of the spinal
      column or other joints to 
      enhance function."

-- Bill 181, The Regulation of Chiropractic, Statutes of Ontario

Chiropractic is one of the largest primary contact health care professions in North America. In an average year, approximately 4.5 million Canadians are treated by chiropractors. Chiropractic is covered by many health insurance plans as well as Workers' Compensation Boards across the country.

Chiropractic History

In 1895 Daniel David Palmer, who was skilled in the art of magnetic healing, successfully discovered a technique (the chiropractic adjustment), which restored Harvey Lillard's hearing. Harvey Lillard had lost his hearing 17 years prior to Daniel David Palmer's (DD Palmer) chiropractic adjustment after stooping over and feeling something give in his back. After Harvey Lillard told DD Palmer of his hearing loss, DD Palmer examined Harvey's back and found a painful area on the spine which was more prominent than the surrounding area. DD Palmer placed his hands on Harvey's back and gave it a thrust in the attempt to restore the normal position of the vertebra. All most immediately Harvey's hearing returned!