I’m a Chiropractor. Here Are 5 Wellness Trends You Should Probably Skip in 2025 (And What to Do Instead)

By Dr. Alfredo Petrone, Coastal Life Wellness

Let’s face it, health trends spread fast these days. One viral TikTok and suddenly everyone’s plunging into ice, taping their mouths shut, or twisting themselves into pain with the promise of healing. Some of it’s helpful and some great tips. But a lot of it is more hype than health.

As a chiropractor, I love seeing people take charge of their well-being. But I also want you to feel better, not just follow the crowd. It's tough sometimes to wade through the misinformation. So here are five of the most popular (but questionable) pain-related trends in 2025 and what I’d recommend instead.

1. Trend: DIY Neck Cracking Videos

You’ve probably seen the clips of someone aggressively twisting their own neck for that loud crack. It might look satisfying, but it’s not helping. Forcing a "crack" doesn’t mean you’re fixing the right joint. In fact, you could be moving already hypermobile segments while missing the actual area that needs help. Over time, this can lead to instability, increased tension, and more ultimately more pain.

Try this instead: gentle neck mobility exercises paired with targeted strengthening work like chin tucks or isometric holds. These are much safer and more effective. And if you’re in pain, see a chiropractor who knows what to assess before applying force.

2. Trend: Taping Your Mouth Shut to Sleep Better and Fix Pain

Mouth taping for sleep is blowing up online with claims it can fix posture, back pain, anxiety, and more. While nasal breathing is beneficial, mouth taping isn’t the solution for everyone, especially if you have sleep apnea, sinus issues, or jaw dysfunction. You could be putting your health at risk by blocking your airway without knowing it.

Try this instead: if you suspect poor sleep is affecting your pain levels, speak with a sleep specialist or trained clinician. Nasal breathing exercises, sleep hygiene, and postural work during the day are proven ways to improve your rest without duct tape. There are also certain supplements that could be helpful to ensure you have better rest and recovery.

3. Trend: TikTok Back Cracking Stretches with Towels or Brooms

There’s a whole genre of people putting towels behind their backs or hanging from chairs trying to get that satisfying pop. These movements can be unpredictable and aren’t tailored to your specific anatomy or condition. You’re risking injury by applying force to joints without knowing what’s tight, restricted, or inflamed.

Try this instead: a thoracic (midback) extension over a foam roller or cat-cow mobility to gently move your spine. These are safer and still give you that “ahhh” feeling. If you need to release stuck joints, a chiropractor can apply precise adjustments instead of guesswork with a broomstick.

4. Trend: Excessive Cold Plunging for Pain Relief

Ice baths are everywhere this year. Influencers are claiming that cold plunges cure everything from migraines to emotional trauma to back pain. Cold exposure can be beneficial for inflammation and mood, but too much too soon, especially in people with chronic pain or nervous system sensitivity, can actually increase stress responses. Also, it’s not a cure. It’s just a tool.

Try this instead: contrast therapy like hot and cold showers, gentle movement, or breathwork. Start small. Even a brisk walk in nature or a hot shower followed by cool water can stimulate circulation and reduce pain without shocking your system.

5. Trend: Fix Your Posture in 5 Minutes Devices

From wearable posture correctors to magnetic back braces, there’s no shortage of gadgets claiming to fix your posture instantly. These devices don’t teach your body how to move. They often restrict movement and can actually weaken the muscles you’re trying to activate. Posture is a habit built over time, not something you snap into place.

Try this instead: strengthen your upper back and core, move often, and get assessed by a professional who can tailor exercises to your needs. Good posture comes from good movement. Remember, there is no such thing as perfect posture.

Final Thoughts

It’s exciting to explore new health trends, but don’t trade hype for healing. Your pain deserves more than a quick fix or a viral trick. When in doubt, go back to the basics. Move with intention, rest well, nourish your body, and ask for help when you need it.

At Coastal Life Wellness, we’re here to cut through the noise and support you with evidence-based care that actually works. Have a question about something weird you saw on TikTok? Come ask me about it. Seriously.

Dr. Alfredo is a health enthusiast who’s goal is to help people and families live healthier, happier lives. My philosophy on health is simple - our body’s have the amazing ability and potential to self-adapt, self-regulate and THRIVE in this world.

Keywords: chiropractor in Vancouver, pain relief, TikTok trends, neck cracking, posture correction, cold plunges, mouth taping, spinal health, evidence-based care