Our History
Based on a solid tradition, chiropractic has evolved and taken root in Quebec. Not only has it adapted, but it has also created opportunities for excellence in research and clinical practice.
For many years, Quebec chiropractors lobbied for the enactment of legislation that would set out the conditions required to practise chiropractic in Québec.
Their wish was granted in 1973 when the Quebec National Assembly recognized the profession of chiropractor by means of the Professional Code and the Chiropractic Act.
This recognition gives chiropractic a professional order status with an exclusive practice whose main mission is to ensure public protection.
At the time, Dr. André Dionne, Chiropractor, was appointed by the government to the position of First President of the new organization. Under his presidency, the regulations required for the Ordre des chiropraticiens du Québec (OCQ) to fulfill its public protection mandate were adopted. Among them were the Code of ethics of chiropractors and the regulations governing professional inspection and the arbitration of accounts. The committees responsible for the application of these regulations and related mechanisms were subsequently established.
Forty-five years later, the OCQ, which comprises nearly 1400 members, pursues its mission with pride.
A long history marked with milestones
Over the years, the profession of chiropractic in Quebec has celebrated several milestones.
Today, the OCQ is pursuing its efforts to update Quebec’s Chiropractic Act.
Did you know?
The 1990s saw two major milestones at the OCQ, namely the establishment of a university program and the creation of a foundation to support research. These major breakthroughs aimed to offer Quebecers high-quality, safe chiropractic care based on scientific research.
The positive impact of these two major achievements continues to raise the credibility and reputation of excellence in chiropractic in Quebec.