D.D. Palmer & the First Chiropractic Adjustment

A moment in Davenport, 1895

The first Chiropractic Adjustment: In September 1895, in the Ryan Building of Davenport, Iowa, a magnetic healer named D.D. Palmer met a janitor named Harvey Lillard. Lillard explained that 17 years earlier, after feeling something “give” in his back, he had lost most of his hearing.

On September 18, 1895, Palmer delivered what became the first recorded chiropractic adjustment. He believed a misaligned vertebra was interfering with nerve communication. After the adjustment, Lillard reported that his hearing improved—he could hear the noises of the street once again.

The birth of chiropractic

• This single adjustment laid the foundation for a new profession focused on spinal health and nervous system balance.
• Within two years, Palmer founded the Palmer School of Chiropractic to teach others his methods.
• The name “chiropractic” was suggested by Rev. Samuel Weed, combining the Greek words “cheir” (hand) and “praktos” (done by).
• Despite resistance and legal challenges, Palmer insisted chiropractic was distinct from medicine—a science, art, and philosophy of natural healing.

A lasting legacy

D.D. Palmer’s bold experiment became a worldwide health movement. His son, B.J. Palmer, would carry the torch—expanding chiropractic education and research, and spreading its philosophy across the globe.

A note from Dr. Ryan

The first adjustment was more than a single event—it was the beginning of a movement. Today, we honor D.D. Palmer’s vision by helping you and your loved ones live healthier through chiropractic care.

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