Quackery of the first degree

I use twitter a bit, and was followed by a chiropractor, which made me smile a crooked smile.  Lots of "might" and "may" but actually it's just wriggle your back and talk quietly if you read the rest of the blurb. IT's out-and-out quackery to claim that a back "manipulation" can sure ear-ache and prevent flu, it's nonsense of the first order. The bit that made me smile most though is this naked claim

"I laughed in reply and informed them that New Zealand is behind the rest of the world when it comes to sports performance and chiropractic", in that we still allow it unfettered and unmonitored and unqualified application with grandiose claims and benefits just on hearsay and anecdote.

There is also the matter of manipulation of children's spines -

 

This from their website "Dr B's  unique gentle approach and her caring manner enables her to work with children effectively and efficiently.

Clinical experience and extensive research has shown that a wide range of childhood symptoms may respond favourably to chiropractic treatment.

These symptoms  include migraines, gastric reflux, recurrent ear and chest infections, hyperactivity, bed wetting, fatigue, recurrent throat infections, arm and leg pain, headaches, asthma, poor co-ordination, sleeping problems, irritability, colic, back pain, stomach ache, visual problems, digestive disorders, scoliosis and poor posture.

B has also assisted many new mothers during  pregnancy and child birth."

Righty then, no mention of any clinical studies on the website, and a couple of testimonials about not getting flu anymore.  And worse it's available in NZ on ACC which is a disgrace.

I'll end by saying that as a grown adult,  if I want to spend my money on snake-oil and because I think it's work, and  therefore then must work, then more fool me. If my back stops hurting that isn't evidence, or claim for efficacy.