In printed ads published in 2009, Thomas F. Miller of the Spinal Decompression Center of Oregon, part of the Oregon Chiropractic Center, contended spinal decompression, a non-surgical treatment, was a “breakthrough” therapy and that patients could eliminate back pain while sleeping, but he didn’t present evidence to support his claims, according to a final stipulated order with the Oregon Board of Chiropractic Examiners, the state agency responsible for licensing and regulating chiropractic physicians and assistants.

He also made a reference to a medical case study inconsistent with the actual published research, and failed to identify himself as a chiropractor or chiropractic physician as required by Oregon law.

Miller signed a statement assuring voluntary compliance with the Oregon Department of Justice, agreeing to pay the department $25,000, $17,000 of which will be forgiven if Miller complies with the settlement’s terms.

The justice department could fine him additional money if he fails to pay at least a $2,000 penalty to the chiropractic examiners board within six months.

Miller has also agreed to pay more than $7,000 in restitution and refunds to patients.

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