Why Do Some Chiropractors Make Chiropractic Sound Like a Religion?

In this episode, Jerry tackles a nuanced and often controversial topic: why does chiropractic sometimes sound like a religion? Drawing from his own experience in the profession and his exposure to its philosophical roots, Jerry explores how religious-like language and behavior have persisted in chiropractic for over a century—and whether this helps or harms the profession.

This episode doesn’t aim to provide all the answers. Instead, it encourages thoughtful reflection on how chiropractic is defined, communicated, and perceived—especially by the public.

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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

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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

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What Should Chiropractors Do?

1. 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

2. 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

3. 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

4. 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

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Services Mentioned

• Rocket Chiro Websites: Designed to convert visitors into patients

• Local SEO Services: Focused on improving Google Maps rankings

• Next Step Program: On-demand coaching for new and stuck chiropractors

• Free Website and SEO Assessment: No-obligation review with personalized feedback

For more info, visit: www.rocketchiro.com

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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.

Want Help Growing Your Practice?

Jerry offers business coaching, website design, SEO, and Google Ads services specifically for chiropractors. If you're ready for less stress and more momentum, visit RocketChiro.com.

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