‘When I say almost all the usual lines chiropractors tell you are lies, I mean almost all of them’: Chiropractor says that most of his profession is a scam (2024)

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A chiropractor has gone viral on TikTok after calling out an unexpected group—chiropractors.

TikTok user Trevor Zierke is a D.C. (Doctor of Chiropractic) whose page is filled with many tips to help people properly lift weights and take care of themselves.Now, he’s gone viral after saying that “literally 99% of my profession” is a scam.

His initial video received over 6.5 million views.

@trevorzierke_dc #stitch with @debtcollective #greenscreen please dont share with your chiropractor 😬 #chiropractor #chiropractic #chiropracticadjustment #health #fitnesstiktok ♬ Love You So – The King Khan & BBQ Show

“When I say almost all the usual lines chiropractors tell you are lies, I mean almost all of them,” he says.

Zierke then goes on to give examples of issues chiropractors allegedly make up, including someone’s spine being “misaligned,” tension on nerves causing health problems, and someone having back pain because their hips are off-center.

“Almost all of these aren’t true,” he concludes.

In follow-up, he clarifies that not all chiropractors are scam artists, just that the industry is filled with scams and false promises.

@trevorzierke_dc #greenscreenvideo #greenscreen are chiropractors scams? #chiropractor #chiropracticadjustment #chiropractic #health #fitnesstiktok ♬ Roxanne – Instrumental – Califa Azul

He states in this video that the reasons most people are told they need to go to a chiropractor are “overblown or just flat out lies proven wrong by research.”

Zierke also notes that, while there are many scams, that “doesn’t mean you can’t get help from a chiropractor.”

A 2016 article from TIME regarding the legitimacy of the chiropractic field notes that controversy arises when chiropractors claim their services can help issues not stemming from musculoskeletal conditions. The report cites Michael Schneider, an associate professor of health sciences at the University of Pittsburgh, who says these claims are not based on scientific evidence.

In a third TikTok, Zierke offered some valid reasons to see a chiropractor.

@trevorzierke_dc Plz don’t go see a chiropractor for your constipation #chiropractor #chiropractic #chiropracticadjustment #health #fitnesstiktok #gymtok ♬ Wii Shop Channel Trap – OSRSBeatz

He notes that one can seek help from a chiropractor if they have musculoskeletal pain that has been ongoing for more than one to two days, and that’s about it.

The creator says "basically anything that you answer ‘no’ to the question, ‘Would it feel better if that area was rubbed on for a bit?’” are issues that couldn't really be fixed by a chiropractor, including "GI [gastrointestinal] pain, hormonal issues, nutrition," among others.

In comments, users were largely supportive of Zierke's message.

First, many said that while the TikToker was right to point out the scammy nature of some chiropractors, others can be genuinely helpful.

“There’s good and bad chiropractors just like regular doctors,” one user wrote. “I couldn’t walk without shooting pain before my spine was adjusted by a chiropractor.”

“I’ve worked for two different Chiropractors. One was a complete scam artist and the other was incredible,” a second user added. “It’s a shame honestly.”

Others were simply thankful for the message of the videos.

“As a physiotherapist I've been trying to tell this but I don't want to like offend any chiropractor in doing so,” a commenter shared.

“Working in a chiropractic office, this is fair,” a further user wrote. “I have issues that I know an adjustment will help & other pain that would be better stretched/released.”

Update 2:30pm CT August 6: In an email to Daily Dot, Zierke reiterated the intention of his videos.

"I would just like to clarify that chiropractors, in general, are not a scam or are inherently scammers (I myself am a practicing chiropractor), but rather a lot of very popular sales tactics, phrases and wording used to imply patients need treatment, and methods of treatment, have never been proven to be true," he explained.

"When chiropractors say & use these methods stating things that are not factually true—I believe it’s scammy behavior and practices."

"There are still a lot of very good, honest, and integral chiropractors out there," he concluded. "They can provide a lot of help and relief to patients. But that’s unfortunately not the majority, and I’ve heard too many stories of people falling victim to some of these scam-like tactics from bad apple chiropractors."

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Braden Bjella

Braden Bjella is a culture writer. His work can be found in Mixmag, Electronic Beats, Schon! magazine, and more.

‘When I say almost all the usual lines chiropractors tell you are lies, I mean almost all of them’: Chiropractor says that most of his profession is a scam (2024)

FAQs

How do you know if a chiropractor is scamming you? ›

What are the signs my chiropractor is scamming me?
  • They use too many scare tactics. In a chiropractic clinic, you're generally there for a specific purpose, or a specific type of pain. ...
  • Your treatment course seems never ending. ...
  • They offer a 'miracle cure' ...
  • There is too much sales-talk.

Why do chiropractors have such a bad reputation? ›

Chiropractors, especially in America, have a reputation for unnecessarily treating patients. Sustained chiropractic care is promoted as a preventative tool but unnecessary manipulation could possibly present a risk to patients. Some chiropractors are concerned by the routine unjustified claims chiropractors have made.

Why do doctors not like chiropractors? ›

The other reasons some doctors don't recommended chiropractic care is because they have either not kept up with their research or just don't know enough about chiropractic and how we can help their patients and the public as a whole.

What is a red flag of a bad chiropractor? ›

If multiple reviewers are saying that a particular chiropractor is rude, ineffective, or seems shady, that's a good sign to steer clear. You should also take the time to check their education and credentials. Like any other doctor, chiropractors are held to rigorous standards.

How can you tell a good chiropractor from a bad one? ›

A good chiropractor will answer all of your questions and help you understand your treatment plan. They will do anything to make you feel comfortable while showing empathy and building a personal connection with you. A bad chiropractor will rush the treatment and won't care about your needs or feelings.

Can you get a bad chiropractic adjustment? ›

What injuries can a chiropractic adjustment cause? Chiropractic treatments may cause minor, temporary side effects, such as discomfort, stiffness, or a headache. In rare cases, people also report severe events, including spinal cord injury, artery dissection, and stroke.

What is the most common problem with chiropractors? ›

Low back pain, neck pain and headaches are the most common problems for which people seek chiropractic adjustment.

Is there evidence behind chiropractic? ›

The most positive research on chiropractic therapy has focused on spinal manipulation for low back pain. As one of the alternatives to pain-relieving drugs, the American College of Physicians low back pain guideline recommends spinal manipulation along with heat, massage, and acupuncture.

What are the disadvantages of chiropractic? ›

The Cons of Chiropractic Care

Extreme risks with chiropractic care are unlikely but include bone damage, stroke, and more. While chiropractic care is primarily about spinal manipulation, neck adjustments are often part of chiropractic care as well. Neck adjustments are more sensitive and come with more risk.

Why don't physical therapists like chiropractors? ›

Historically, medical doctors and physical therapists did not refer patients to chiropractors because they did not understand the benefits of chiropractic care and they didn't want to risk losing patients.

Should I avoid the chiropractor? ›

WHEN NOT TO SEE A CHIROPRACTOR. Patients with herniated or slipped discs and those with arthritis may need advice from specialist physicians before seeing a chiropractor. If there is a physical abnormality or injury in your body, such as a fracture, chiropractic care may not be for you.

Why do chiropractors get to call themselves doctors? ›

This degree is on par with an MD or a PhD. Slightly longer answer? Yes, chiropractors are doctors of chiropractic medicine and are considered physicians. Though they are unable to write prescriptions like medical doctors, chiropractors can diagnose and treat musculoskeletal conditions.

Can a chiropractor tell what's wrong with my back? ›

Regardless of the circumstances that led to your lower back pain, a chiropractor can properly identify the issue and from that diagnosis provide a clear path toward recovery.

What are yellow flags in chiropractic? ›

Yellow flags are psychosocial patient factors that although not associated with serious organic pathology nonetheless indicate an increased likelihood of chronic back pain and resultant long term disability and potential loss of work.

What are chiropractic toxins? ›

It simply means that the adjustment has helped to release toxins that had been stored in the body, which can then be flushed out of the body through various means. These toxins can come from many sources, including the environment, stress and even our own cells.

What can go wrong at chiropractor? ›

Serious complications associated with chiropractic adjustment are overall rare, but may include: A herniated disk or a worsening of an existing disk herniation. Compression of nerves in the lower spinal column. A certain type of stroke after neck manipulation.

What happens if a chiropractor makes a mistake? ›

Malpractice also occurs if a chiropractor gives advice that is not based on accepted standards of practice within their profession and causes harm as a result. If your injury was caused by negligence on the part of your chiropractor, then you may be able to file a lawsuit for damages.

What should I watch out for at the chiropractor? ›

Pushy Sales Tactics: Be wary of practitioners who pressure you into purchasing treatment packages or products that seem unnecessary. Patient care should be safe and effective for your needs. Lack of Follow-up: Ongoing care and adjustment to treatment plans based on progress are signs of a responsible chiropractor.

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