D.D. Palmer gave the first chiropractic adjustment in 1895. The patient care aspect of chiropractic care has shown remarkable results over time. Unfortunately, chiropractors were only able therorize for years why patients improved with chiropratic care.
Initially, chiropractors stated that a misaligned bone or vertebrae could put excessive pressure on the nerve it was meant to protect. Basically a hard bone was pinching a soft nerve is what it meant. This pressure caused the nerve to stop working properly, causing symptoms or even pain. Later, the theory was proved that nerve function could be altered by as little as the weight of a dime. Therefore, pressure on the nerve could be reduced by a chiropratic adjustment and the body would start to heal.
Next, chiropractors believed that scar tissue could develop around spinal joints that moved out of place. This would attract fluid (swelling), which would again pressure the nerve. This would cause pain and immobility and be a major reason why many people would seek out a chiropractor. A chiropractic adjustment would decrease swelling, increase joint mobility and reduce pressure on the nerve. The body would once again begin to heal itself.
Research has shown that the central nervous system's inability to adapt to changing environments and recover is a critical factor in maintaining wellness and staying healthy. Chiropractic care is a key benefit in improving the functioning of the central nervous system. EEG's, (specialized tests that measure brain waves), have shown how chiropractic adjustments can alter the nature of the brain wave and help the nervous system essentially, "restart." This research explains why chiropractic care is so beneficial and effective for patients with symptoms such as headaches/migraines, earaches, indigestion and more.