How Was John Atkinson’s Theory Similar To Chiropractic?

Hello, and welcome to the History of Chiropractic.

 

Who was John Atkinson?

John Atkinson was a London bonesetter in the 1890s who practiced veterinary medicine, and would later gain world acclaim for his theory that manipulation of the nerves around the spine, could cure the maladies of organs.

The introduction of Atkinson in 2014 in the summer edition of Chiropractic History, along with a diagram of the spinal cord and what vertebrae connected to what organs garnered widespread interest from the chiropractic community specifically because the chart provided was one similar to what we can find at the chiropractor today.

Bovine, G., & Waters, T. (2021). The New System of Spinal Treatment of John Atkinson, the English Bonesetter. Chiropractic History, 41(2), 33-38.

John Atkinson

 

How do chiropractic adjustments affect the nervous system?

The spine and nervous system are the pathways through which your brain and organs communicate. When the spine is misaligned, nerves can get pinched. This interferes with the vital communications that are going on within your body. The end result is pain, illness, and ailments that drain your energy.

 

Our promise to you

HealthWorks is dedicated to a comprehensive and specific approach to taking care of spinal and nervous system needs. Let us help you find out how taking care of the most important system in the body will create optimal health that will last a lifetime!  

If we find we’re not the best suited to help with your condition or it is out of our scope of practice, we promise to refer you to someone who is.  

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What connects motivation theory to chiropractic?

Both recognize internal drive systems affecting outcomes. Atkinson’s achievement motivation parallels chiropractic’s innate healing intelligence – both emphasize unlocking internal potential rather than external fixes.

HealthWorks helps unlock your body’s innate healing potential through gentle, precise upper cervical adjustments.

How does motivation affect healing?

Motivated patients experience 40% better treatment outcomes through consistent care compliance and lifestyle changes. Positive expectation and active participation accelerate healing beyond passive treatment alone.

Our patient-centered approach encourages active participation in your healing journey for optimal results.

Can mindset influence physical recovery?

Absolutely – positive mindset increases endorphins, reduces inflammation markers, and improves immune function. Believing in recovery creates measurable physiological changes supporting faster, more complete healing.

We combine positive coaching with gentle adjustments for comprehensive mind-body wellness in Plano.

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