The Origins of Vertebral Subluxation: D.D. Palmer’s Theories and Discoveries

In the mid-1880s, D.D. Palmer was practicing magnetic healing and exploring well-being through an unconventional lens—one focused not on what could be seen, but on what could be sensed and reasoned. His practice centered on a fundamental question:
Why do people with similar lifestyles experience vastly different levels of health?

The Inflammation Theory and the IVF

Palmer’s early theory proposed that inflammation was the root of dysfunction in the body. Influenced by vitalism and naturalism, he believed this inflammation interfered with the body’s internal ability to heal. Unlike the prevailing views of the time, which treated health as an outside-in process, Palmer shifted the narrative to an inside-out model—one grounded in physiology and logic.

This belief led him to investigate the intervertebral foramen (IVF), the small opening between spinal vertebrae where nerves, veins, and arteries pass. He theorized that misaligned vertebrae caused pressure or “pinching” of soft tissues, leading to nerve inflammation and breakdown in function.

Refining the Theory: From Inflammation to Neurology

Palmer’s second theory expanded upon the first, zeroing in on the neurological system. He proposed that vertebrae out of alignment (subluxations) could interfere with the nervous system’s function and cause widespread physiological imbalances.

While osteopathy focused on vascular disturbances, Palmer diverged by directing his attention to the nervous system. This shift laid the groundwork for Chiropractic as a distinct profession.

The Birth of Chiropractic

With his refined theory of vertebral subluxation, Palmer coined the term Chiropractic, meaning “done by hand.” He transformed his identity from Magnetic Healer to Chiropractor, emphasizing the correction of spinal misalignments through specific, purposeful adjustments.

D.D. Palmer didn’t just create a treatment—he launched a philosophy, science, and art that continues to evolve today.

Chiropractic Isn’t Just a Practice—It’s a Paradigm Shift.

By recognizing the spine’s influence on neurological function, Chiropractic provides a proactive approach to restoring well-being from the inside out.

Schedule your visit today and experience the potential of Chiropractic firsthand.