• Troyanovich S

• Chiropractic / history
• Open Access Document
• Vitalism

Background: Magical thinking, defined as attributing causal relationships where scientific evidence finds none, has persisted throughout human history, particularly in domains fraught with uncertainty—such as healthcare. In healthcare, both providers and patients engage in belief systems that transcend empirical data, seeking comfort, meaning and control. The chiropractic profession, rooted in spiritualist traditions and vitalistic philosophies, offers a particularly rich case study in the persistence and implications of magical thinking in a modern clinical context.

Objective: This commentary explores the historical and contemporary presence of magical thinking within the chiropractic profession. It examines how these beliefs originated, why they continue to exist among a subset of practitioners and what their persistence reveals about the identity, public perception and future of chiropractic care.

Discussion: Chiropractic's founder, D.D. Palmer, drew heavily from spiritualism, proposing metaphysical concepts such as "Innate Intelligence" to explain health and disease. His writings, along with those of early chiropractic advocates, positioned the profession within a framework of unseen forces and divine influence. Over time, this blend of biomechanics and mysticism led to both therapeutic rituals (e.g., adjustments with performative flair) and a reputation for "magic hands." While many chiropractors have transitioned toward evidence-based practice, a significant minority still embrace vitalistic language and concepts. Patient psychology also plays a key role, as many individuals seek experiences that feel meaningful and spiritually affirming—needs often met by chiropractic's rituals and unique language. The profession remains divided between evidence-informed practitioners and traditionalists, a rift that affects education, public image and interprofessional relations.

Conclusion: Chiropractic's entanglement with magical thinking and mysticism is not merely a historical artifact but a dynamic force shaped by cultural origins, patient expectations and professional tensions. While mystical elements can enhance therapeutic relationships and fulfill deep psychological needs, they also risk undermining the credibility of the profession. A balanced integration—one that respects both the intangible dimensions of healing and the demands of scientific rigor—may offer a path forward. Rather than dismiss the "magic" in chiropractic, it may be more fruitful to understand and ethically contextualize it within a broader, human-centered model of care.

Author keywords: Vitalism; Evidence-Based Medicine; Chiropractic

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