History Articles

Modernized Chiropractic Core Concepts

COLEMAN RR. Modernized Chiropractic's Core Concepts. Chiropractic History. 2021 Jun 1;41(1).
Modernized Chiropractic is widely recognized as chiropractic's first textbook. The text places great importance on the terms Special Philosophy, Subluxation, Spontaneity and Thrust. These terms are indispensable to an understanding of how early chiropractors viewed their profession. A better understanding of these terms may give the modern reader a window into the thought process of a group that had a great effect on the beginnings of the chiropractic profession and whose influence is seen today.

The Gonstead Clinical Studies Society

The Gonstead Clinical Studies Society ROGER R. COLEMAN, DC*, KENNETH H. WOLF, PhD#, JEAN A. TAYLOR, DC**
Chiropractic History 2012;32:9-19
*Director of Research, Gonstead Clinical Studies Society, rrroger2706@gmail.com
#Emeritus Professor of History, Murray State University
**Executive Director, Gonstead Clinical Studies Society and private practice of chiropractic, Santa Cruz, California
With the passing of Clarence Gonstead, DC, the chiropractic world lost a towering figure; however the vision of chiropractic that had been espoused by the iconic founder of the Gonstead Technique would not die. In an effort to maintain, promote and with time perhaps improve the vision of chiropractic that had been promoted by Dr. Gonstead, nine individuals stepped forward. On a spring day in 1979 this group met in San Mateo, California to form the Gonstead Clinical Studies Society. Over the next thirty years the organization has been a force in the education of both chiropractic students and practicing doctors of chiropractic as well as an avid supporter of research. At times the road has not been without its difficulties, but in a world marked by associations which rise and fall, the Gonstead Clinical Studies Society still stands proudly. A bond of fellowship based on mutual respect and dedication has been woven into a lasting tapestry that has withstood the test of time.

History or Science: The Controversy over Chiropractic Spinography

Coleman RR, Wolf KH, Lopes MA, Coleman JM.  Chiropractic History 2013;33:66-81
The historic year 1895 marked the beginnings of both radiography and chiropractic, inventions that would alter the course of world health care. These impressive developments are related in far more than merely dates of origin. Their histories have been intricately interwoven in a tapestry spanning over a century of impressive accomplishment. But these accomplishments have been accompanied by numerous internal conflicts within the chiropractic world. Techniques and ideologies have vied for supremacy over the course of chiropractic history. One controversy which continues today involves what at first may seem a relatively simple question: when or if to use imaging in a patient's case. This seemingly innocuous problem has generated great debate and strife within the chiropractic community. The biomechanical based radiographers have embraced the historical chiropractic concept that the primary reason for ordering x-rays is to evaluate spinal alignment. The pathology based radiographers have rejected the traditional chiropractic approach and feel radiography should be performed in accordance with the "red flag" philosophy. Each group seems guided by its acceptance or rejection of historical chiropractic's view on x-ray usage and then proceeds to craft arguments in line with a preconceived belief. It would appear that some tolerance might be expressed by both sides to allow individuals to practice somewhat to his/her own understanding without suffering the interference of either faction.