Question
Having read what you say about “alternative medicine,” I wonder whether your theory that chiropractic has an “uncertain future” is correct. Insurance companies now reimburse certain modalities and use of alternative medicine is increasing due to public acceptance.
Answer
At present, “alternative medicine” is a haven for nonsensical and unproven healing methods. Its popularity is due to public gullibility rather than proven effectiveness and scientific merit. In response to public interest, insurance coverage and hospital sponsorship of questionable healing methods have increased. But these methods will remain on the fringe of health care.
I believe it is a mistake for the chiropractic profession to seek classsification as an alternative healing method. Appropriate use of spinal manipulation as a treatment for certain mechanical-type neck and back problems is a specific treatment method, like physical therapy, that should not be grouped with nonsensical approaches such as homeopathy or therapeutic touch.
As long as chiropractic defines itself as a method of correcting “vertebral subluxations” to restore and maintain health, it will not have scientific support and will continue to seek shelter under the umbrella of “alternative medicine.” If the profession ever defines itself as a specialty in the use of spinal manipulation as a method of treating mechanical-type neck and back problems, it will have a better chance of gaining scientific acceptance that will allow it to function in cooperation with standard medical care, protected from the whims of a gullible and fickle public.
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Dr. Homola is a second-generation chiropractor who has dedicated himself to defining the proper limits on chiropractic and to educating consumers and professionals about the field. His 1963 book Bonesetting, Chiropractic, and Cultism supported the appropriate use of spinal manipulation but renounced chiropractic dogma. His 1999 book Inside Chiropractic: A Patient’s Guide provides an incisive look at chiropractic’s history, benefits, and shortcomings. Now retired after 43 years of practice, he lives in Panama City, Florida.
This article was posted on February 13, 2003.
