Why Do Some Chiropractors Make Chiropractic Sound Like a Religion?

In this thought-provoking episode, Jerry dives into a question that many in the chiropractic profession have likely considered—but few openly discuss: Why does chiropractic sometimes sound like a religion?

From the origins of chiropractic philosophy to the extremes of modern practice, Jerry unpacks the similarities between religious language and the way some chiropractors talk about their profession. He explores whether this messaging helps or hurts chiropractic, especially when it comes to growing public trust and attracting new patients.

Topics Covered
1. Two Extremes in Chiropractic Philosophy

On one end: Evidence-only chiropractors who view chiropractic purely as musculoskeletal care

On the other end: Chiropractors who speak in mystical or spiritual terms, treating chiropractic as a life-transforming philosophy

Why both extremes can alienate the average person and cause division within the profession

2. Parallels Between Religion and Chiropractic

Origin story of chiropractic (Harvey Lillard, DD and BJ Palmer) has a near-mythical tone

Green Books and 33 Principles serve as sacred texts

The adjustment functions as a ritual for some practitioners

Concepts like innate intelligence resemble spiritual or religious ideas

Evangelistic language: “power is on,” “saving lives,” “this is my purpose”

Chiropractic’s internal denominations: upper cervical groups, technique systems, subluxation-based vs. evidence-based

3. Why Religious Messaging Is Problematic

It creates confusion—both within the profession and with the public

The message doesn’t resonate with the majority of people

Research shows only around 12–15% of Americans see a chiropractor regularly

Going “all in” on a new-age approach would alienate at least two-thirds of current and potential patients

Other medical and health professions avoid spiritualized language and reach far more people

4. Why This Messaging Still Exists

It’s historically embedded in the profession

It gives chiropractors a stronger sense of purpose

It appeals to those looking for identity, certainty, and belonging

It’s often easier to repeat philosophical slogans than to critically evaluate them

Chiropractic schools that promote this mindset continue to attract like-minded students

Key Takeaways
Chiropractic isn’t religion—and it doesn’t need belief or faith to work

The profession should focus on benefits, not belief systems

Presenting chiropractic in mystical or exaggerated terms limits its appeal

Chiropractors should strive for clarity, consistency, and excellence in communication and care

Patients don’t need to believe in a philosophy—they just need to know chiropractic helps them feel and function better

What Should Chiropractors Do?
Be excellent at what you do

Avoid shortcuts and weekend certifications just to add services

Master your craft, whether it's manual adjustments, soft tissue work, or rehab

Communicate clearly and effectively

Avoid sounding like a conspiracy theorist or spiritual guru

Test your messaging with people outside the profession to make sure it sounds normal

Focus on practical benefits

Most people care about how chiropractic will help them feel and function better

Benefits like improved sleep, reduced pain, better mobility, and less stress resonate more than abstract philosophy

Stop repeating what you’ve heard without questioning it

Be thoughtful and intentional with your words

Avoid parroting slogans or ideas that don't hold up to scrutiny

Services Mentioned
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Closing Thoughts
Jerry makes it clear: he loves chiropractic. It has changed his life. But love for the profession doesn’t mean ignoring its problems. If chiropractors want the public to understand and trust what they do, they need to communicate in a way that makes sense to normal people. That means cutting out the spiritual fluff and focusing on what actually helps.

If you’re ready to grow a chiropractic practice that connects with real people and delivers real results, this episode is for you.

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