Why would you hit a child that loves to hit and kick you? that makes no sense. The only reason you won is because you are bigger, not because she respects you. Spanking doesn't actually teach anything and is lazy parenting. I would seriously do some parenting research and read some parenting books. Not trying to be harsh but you don't need to raise your hand to your child to get them to behave. Other methods work well if used properly. No wonder she kicks and hits you. Positive reinforcement and behavior charts are wonderful tools. You don't need to strike someone to get them to do what you want.

"The reason you find it works is because that is what she is used to. She has been taken away from all she knows (her biological mother, the abuse" You are hitting a child that has been around abuse? are you serious right now? and after all the stress of being taken from her bio mom? Spanking only works because it is a fear technique, it does not teach respect, fear and respect are two separate things. You do not need to put your hands on any other person and strike them in the whole world especially a child. It has been proven time and time again not to work.

Keep your hands to yourself. I honestly don't know what you are thinking hitting a child that has been around abuse. You really think that is ok then you need re-evaluate your parenting skills. Spanking does not work long term, she clearly has some issues and you are just going to make it worse. I can't believe you are hitting a child that has had broken bones from being abused, you should never hit any child but especially a child that has an abusive past.