Should You See a Chiropractor for Back Pain?

Back pain is an incredibly common ailment that affects millions of people worldwide. In fact, it’s estimated that up to 80% of adults will experience back pain at some point in their lives. While there are various treatment options available, chiropractic care has gained popularity as a non-invasive approach to managing back pain.

This article explores the potential benefits of chiropractic care for back pain and helps you determine whether it might be a suitable option for you.

What is Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractic care is a form of alternative medicine that focuses on diagnosing and treating mechanical disorders of the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spine. Chiropractors use hands-on spinal manipulation and other alternative treatments to properly align the body’s musculoskeletal structure, enabling the body to heal itself without surgery or medication.

The primary technique used by chiropractors is spinal manipulation, also known as chiropractic adjustment. This involves applying controlled force to joints that have become restricted in their movement due to tissue injury. The goal is to restore mobility, alleviate pain, and allow tissues to heal.

When to Consider Chiropractic Care for Back Pain

Chiropractic care may be beneficial for various types of back pain, including:

• Acute low back pain
• Chronic low back pain
• Sciatica
• Herniated discs
• Degenerative disc disease

If you’ve been experiencing persistent back pain that hasn’t responded to self-care measures such as rest, ice/heat therapy, and over-the-counter pain relievers, it may be time to consider chiropractic care.

The Evidence: Chiropractic Care for Back Pain

A significant 2018 study published in JAMA Network Open provides compelling evidence for the effectiveness of chiropractic care in treating low back pain. The study involved 750 active-duty military personnel who complained of back pain. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups:

• Usual care group: Received standard medical care, including medications, self-care, and physical therapy.
• Chiropractic care group: Received usual care plus up to 12 chiropractic treatments.

After six weeks of treatment, the results were promising for the chiropractic care group. Compared to those receiving only usual care, participants who received chiropractic care:

• Reported less pain intensity
• Experienced less disability and more improvement in function
• Reported higher satisfaction with their treatment
• Needed less pain medicine

These findings suggest that chiropractic care, when used in conjunction with standard medical care, can provide significant benefits for those suffering from low back pain.

Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Back Pain

Chiropractic care offers several potential benefits for those suffering from back pain:

1. Pain Relief

Chiropractic adjustments can help alleviate pain by reducing pressure on the nervous system and improving blood flow. This can lead to decreased inflammation and muscle tension, resulting in pain relief.

2. Improved Mobility

A chiropractic adjustment can help increase joint mobility and flexibility. This can be particularly beneficial for those who experience stiffness or limited range of motion due to back pain.

3. Non-Invasive Treatment

Unlike surgery, chiropractic care is non-invasive. This means it carries fewer risks and typically has a shorter recovery time.

4. Reduced Reliance on Medication

By addressing the root cause of pain rather than just masking symptoms, chiropractic care may help reduce the need for pain medication. This is particularly important given the current concerns about opioid addiction.

5. Personalised Care

Chiropractors often provide personalised treatment plans that may include exercises, stretches, and lifestyle advice in addition to spinal adjustments. This holistic approach can lead to better long-term outcomes.

What to Expect During a Chiropractic Visit

When you visit a chiropractor for back pain, you can expect a comprehensive approach to your care. Initially, your chiropractor will conduct a thorough consultation, taking your medical history and performing a physical examination.

Based on this assessment, they’ll provide a diagnosis and develop a personalised treatment plan. This plan may include spinal adjustments, during which you might hear popping sounds as your joints are manipulated – a normal and typically painless occurrence.

Your chiropractor will likely recommend a series of treatments, with the frequency decreasing as your condition improves. Throughout your care, they may also provide exercises, stretches, and lifestyle advice to support your recovery and prevent future issues.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

While chiropractic care is generally considered safe, it’s important to be aware of potential risks and side effects. In the 2018 study mentioned earlier, about 10% of those receiving chiropractic care reported minor adverse effects like dizziness, mostly stiffness in the joints or muscles. In comparison, 5% of those receiving usual care had similar complaints.

More serious complications from chiropractic adjustments are rare but can include:

• Herniated disk or worsening of an existing disk herniation
• Compression of nerves in the lower spinal column
• Stroke (in extremely rare cases) following neck manipulation

It’s crucial to discuss any concerns with your chiropractor and inform them of any pre-existing conditions before starting treatment.

Choosing a Chiropractor in Melbourne

Melbourne offers numerous chiropractic care options, but Flynn Chiro stands out as a leading practice in the field. With locations in Melbourne CBD and Prahran, Flynn Chiro provides exceptional care tailored to each patient’s needs.

Dr. Flynn is committed to delivering the best possible outcomes for those suffering from back pain. When selecting a chiropractor in Melbourne, it’s crucial to consider factors such as credentials, experience, and treatment approach.

At Flynn Chiro, we pride ourselves on our comprehensive care, state-of-the-art facilities, and patient-centred approach. We encourage you to book a consultation with us to experience the Flynn Chiro difference and take the first step towards effective back pain management.

Bottom Line

Chiropractic care offers a non-invasive, drug-free approach to managing back pain that has shown promising results in recent studies. The 2018 JAMA Network Open study provides strong evidence that chiropractic care, when used in conjunction with standard medical care, can lead to significant improvements in pain intensity, function, and satisfaction for those suffering from low back pain.

However, it’s important to remember that every individual’s experience with back pain is unique. What works for one person may not work for another. If you’re considering chiropractic care for your back pain, it’s advisable to consult with your primary care physician first, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

At Flynn Chiro, we offer comprehensive chiropractic care at our Melbourne CBD and Prahran locations. Our experienced chiropractor is committed to providing personalised treatment plans to help you manage your back pain effectively. If you’re struggling with back pain and are interested in exploring chiropractic care as a treatment option, we encourage you to book a consultation with us.

Remember, the journey to a pain-free back is often a process that requires patience and persistence. With the right care and guidance, however, many people find significant relief and improved quality of life through chiropractic treatment.