In the Spirit of Choosing Wisely.

In episode 155 of the Quackcast, Mark Crislip issues a challenge to chiropractors to reveal 5 standard tests/treatments to be avoided based on not meeting the ABIM's Choosing Wisely criteria of:

• supported by evidence
• not duplicative of other tests/procedures
• free from harm
• truly necessary

Seeing as how I'm willing to spend my time on things that aren't necessary, I thought I'd give it a shot.

Here is my list of 5 standard chiropractic exams, treatments, or other procedures that patients should question.

1. X-rays¹
2. Applied Kinesiology
3. Vitamins & Supplements
4. Routine, extensive, and/or pre-paid treatment plans²
5. Low-value, passive care³

Update:

The American Chiropractic Association has partnered with the ABIM to create their own Choosing Wisely list … and I was pretty darn close

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1. especially on a first visit or recurring basis, except in case of trauma or red flags ↩︎

2. e.g. 3x/week for months ↩︎

3. e.g. e-stim, roller tables, heat, etc. ↩︎