BACKGROUND: Although there is a long history of the use spinal manipulation in China, little has been formally written on this topic.

OBJECTIVE: To discuss the history and status of Chinese spinal manipulation.

DISCUSSION: This article describes the history of Chinese spinal manipulation as revealed through past formal textbook publications on this topic, along with journal articles describing both the basic science foundation and clinical applications of such manipulation. In addition, the current status of Chinese spinal manipulation is described.

CONCLUSION: There is a long history of the use of spinal manipulation throughout China, though some basic problems of application remain. Current research may help to resolve these problems.

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