Chiropractic care should first be used for back pain

Chiropractic care should first be used for back pain

There are a number of alternative practitioners that patients with back pain can initially visit. A chiropractor is an excellent first choice for people with back problems. This article discusses back pain, treatment options and sequelae and offers a natural, safe and effective treatment for treating mechanical spinal pain.

Current research finds that 52% of all opioid prescriptions are for patients with back disorders and 2 million in the United States are affected by opioid use disorder. A 2020 research review found that 22% of patients who saw a PCP received an opioid prescription for lower back discomfort, with those who initially consulted a chiropractor or physical therapist being 90% less likely to need opioids.

Failed surgery for lower back problems is a real possibility and happens far too often. A 2013 study in Washington state found that 43% of workers with a back injury who initially consulted a surgeon ultimately had surgery, and only 1.5% of those who first received chiropractic care ultimately had surgery for their pain.

A 2015 study showed that patients with spinal problems who initially visited a chiropractor were happier than those who saw a primary care doctor.

Chiropractors are the preeminent healthcare providers when it comes to relieving lower spine pain. Chiropractors are the only professionals trained to diagnose and treat physical, mechanical alignment issues associated with spinal pain. Most patients who go to chiropractors find that a chiropractic adjustment is a safe and pleasant experience because it relieves muscle tension and spasms by correcting deeper spinal misalignment. The number of treatments and visits a patient needs to achieve relief from back pain depends on how long the condition has existed and how severe it is.

It may surprise many to learn that chiropractic care is very affordable. Most chiropractors are able to work with patients on a cash basis for their visits. Chiropractic offices are happy to explain their fees up front and let patients decide whether they want to proceed with treatment. Of course, there are a number of reputable health insurance companies that pay for chiropractic care. Additionally, Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) can be used for reimbursement.

It has become clear that natural, safe and gentle chiropractic care is highly recommended for patients with low back pain and this may not only result in less harmful pharmacological and surgical recommendations, but patients also have a greater likelihood of satisfactory treatment results.

Inspired by James Schofield