J Manipulative Physiol Ther. 1994 Jun; 17(5): 302-9.

Development of chiropractic nomenclature through consensus.

Gatterman MI, Hansen DT.

Division of Chiropractic Sciences, Canadian Memorial Chiropractic College, Toronto, Ontario.

OBJECTIVES: The establishment of nomenclature is a sign of maturity in any field. Each discipline formally adopts or sanctions the terminology based by its practitioners. METHODS: Description of the development of chiropractic nomenclature through consensus methodology. A model was designed as an algorithm to outline steps leading to broad geographical and philosophical agreement. RESULTS: Moving through a regional nominal panel to an international Delphi panel, consensus at the 80% level of agreement was obtained for 10 terms and definitions commonly used by the chiropractic profession. CONCLUSIONS: It is recommended that the chiropractic profession adopt the 10 terms and definitions that reached the 80% consensus level as part of chiropractic nomenclature.