LINKS

American Chiropractic Association
"What is Chiropractic?"

International Chiropractors Association
"Chiropractic Quickfacts"

National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine

"Manipulative and Body-Based Therapies: Chiropractic and Spinal Manipulation" by William Meeker, D.C., M.P.H.
Free registration to view video lecture at http://videolectures.nccam.nih.gov/

This site refers to further resources:
Manipulative and Body-Based Practices: An Overview
http://nccam.nih.gov/health/backgrounds/manipulative.htm

About Chiropractic and Its Use in Treating Low-Back Pain
http://nccam.nih.gov/health/chiropractic/index.htm

DEFINITIONS

Chiropractic [MeSH] 
A system that seeks to utilize the recuperative powers of the body and the relationship between the musculoskeletal structures and functions of the body, particularly of the spinal column and the nervous system, in the restoration and maintenance of health. Stedman, 25th ed.

Chiropractic [from Greek]
Meaning done by the hands.
In giving an adjustment, whether by hand or using an instrument, the chiropractor seeks to stimulate a restoration of normal nerve function in the body.  Chiropractors have developed many specific techniques for accomplishing this goal.

Chiropractic is a natural, conservative, medication-free, and nonsurgical form of health care. 
The writings of Hippocrates (460-370 B.C.), Galen (130-200 A.D.), and even ancient manuscripts of the Egyptians, Hindus, and Chinese reveal some principles common to chiropractic.  Its place in modern health care is largely attributed to Dr. Daniel David Palmer who founded the first chiropractic college in Davenport, Iowa, in 1895.
Job analysis of chiropractic.  Greeley, Colorado: National Board of Chiropractic Examiners, 2000.

A health profession concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, and the effects of these disorders on the functions of the nervous system and general health. There is an emphasis on manual treatments including spinal adjustment and other joint and soft-tissue manipulation.
WFC Dictionary Definition, World Federation of Chiropractic, 2001

A health care profession concerned with the diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disorders of the neuromusculoskeletal system and the effects of these disorders on general health. There is a an emphasis on manual techniques, including joint adjustment and/or manipulation with a particular focus on subluxations.
The WHO definition, World Health Organization, Guidelines on Chiropractic, 2005

Chiropractic is a healthcare discipline that emphasizes the inherent recuperative power of the body to heal itself without the use of drugs or surgery. The practice of chiropractic focuses on the relationship between structure (primarily the spine) and function (as coordinated by the nervous system) and how that relationship affects the preservation and restoration of health. In addition, doctors of chiropractic recognize the value and responsibility of working in cooperation with other health care practitioners when in the best interest of the patient.
The ACC definition, Association of Chiropractic Colleges, 1996