Back Surgery vs. Chiropractic Care: What the Science Says
Back pain is one of the most common physical ailments around. In fact, half of all working Americans report experiencing back pain symptoms each year. But while back pain is prevalent, it's certainly not normal -- and it shouldn't be ignored.
If you suffer from back pain, you might not fully understand the options at your disposal or which of those options will actually provide you with the relief you seek. Some people want to avoid medications at all costs, while others haven't found success with methods like physical therapy. In many cases, the choice may come down to either surgical procedures or chiropractic treatment. And while some may dismiss the value of care provided by a professional chiropractor, the reality is that spinal manipulation techniques are often far more effective.
What’s the difference between back surgery vs. physical therapy or chiropractic treatment? Usually, conservative treatments are recommended in non-emergency situations. Surgical procedures are normally considered to be a last resort, as these invasive treatments involve long recovery periods and can be prohibitively expensive. Moreover, back surgery failures are more common than most people think. In all likelihood, undergoing back surgery may result in only a 30% reduction of pain, while 20% of people who opt for back surgery will require additional back surgeries to address these ongoing issues. One study found that 94% of patients who underwent back surgery (after first trying medications and physical therapy) reported low back pain after surgery, while 71.1% reported dull ache and 69.8% reported numbness. In other words, the majority of patients who actually underwent these surgeries experienced many of the same symptoms of patients with chronic back pain who have not had surgery.
Ultimately, chiropractic care proves to be far more potent in many cases. And for some, the combination of treatment from a professional chiropractor and surgery provides the recovery and relief they seek. In certain situations, surgery is unavoidable -- but including help from a professional chiropractor as part of the treatment plan may still provide improved results compared to what can be achieved from surgery alone.
Of course, it’s important to consult with your physician to determine the right course of action for you. However, if you’ve never received chiropractic care in the past for your back pain, it’s vital to explore the dynamic between back surgery vs. conservative treatments prior to opting for surgery. To learn more about how a chiropractor can help with your back pain, please contact us today. We'd love to provide you with relief and restore your quality of life.
