Back pain is one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. It affects people of all ages and places a significant burden on society, the economy, and the workforce. Globally, back pain is estimated to cost more than $200 billion each year in healthcare expenses and lost productivity. In the United States, up to 80% of adults are expected to experience back pain at some point in their lives.
Because of its widespread impact, the World Health Organisation (WHO) commissioned researchers to identify the most effective evidence-based treatments for non-specific low back pain and to develop high-quality clinical practice guidelines. To accomplish this, researchers conducted an extensive review of scientific literature across multiple databases, including MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, the National Health Service Economic Evaluation Database, the Health Technology Assessment Database, PEDro, the Trip Database, the Index to Chiropractic Literature, and other grey literature sources.
After reviewing the available evidence, the researchers developed recommendations for the WHO based on high-quality clinical practice guidelines. Their findings highlighted several effective approaches to managing low back pain, including patient education, exercise, cognitive and behavioural strategies, and manual therapies such as spinal manipulation.
Chiropractic care, which commonly includes spinal adjustments, is considered a safe, effective, and natural option for managing many forms of spinal pain, including low back pain, neck pain, and certain types of headaches. Chiropractors are trained and licensed healthcare professionals who evaluate and treat conditions affecting the musculoskeletal system. When a patient’s condition requires another form of care, chiropractors can refer them to the appropriate healthcare provider.
If you are experiencing low back pain, neck pain, joint discomfort, headaches, or other forms of pain or limited mobility, chiropractic care may be worth considering. Many chiropractic clinics offer free or low-cost consultations to help determine whether treatment may be beneficial.
Source: https://doi.org/10.1016/j.apmr.2023.02.022
