Did you know that Americans spend more than $134 billion every year on medical care for back pain? This alarming figure, per a study published in Chiropractic & Manual Therapies, includes those who seek treatment from back pain chiropractors, surgeons, primary care physicians, and more. Choosing the right type of treatment can be a difficult decision without doing proper research.
In this comprehensive guide, the team at Chiropractic Approach, a leading chiropractor in Queens, NY, explains whether you should seek holistic or surgical treatment. Use this information to feel confident in your decision and choose the right treatment for you.
Pros and Cons of Spinal Surgery
Undergoing surgery for back pain can be a drastic step that disrupts your everyday routine. Even minimally invasive procedures can require lengthy recovery times that will keep you off of your feet and then involve rehabilitating your spine with physical therapy. Going under the knife corrects serious musculoskeletal issues like degenerative disc disease and spinal fractures but forces you to alter your lifestyle in the months following.
Doctors often prescribe medication for pain management following surgery. This seems harmless, but the American Medical Association reports that as many as 19% of people who take prescription painkillers develop an addiction to them. Getting surgery for spinal injuries can lead to unwanted drug dependency rather than seeing a back pain chiropractor for treatment.
The major benefit of surgery is that it addresses the cause of your back pain so you can experience long-term relief. If you happen to injure your spine in a traumatic accident, such as an auto collision or fall, surgery may be the only way to repair severe damage.
Pros and Cons of Chiropractic Care
As far as surgery alternatives for back pain go, chiropractic care ranks as one of the best options. In a survey from Consumer Reports, 65% of people who sought chiropractic care for back pain count reported a positive experience and symptom relief. Participants have claimed that chiropractic exams and adjustments are more effective than medications, massage therapy, and acupuncture.
Seeing a back pain chiropractor can be just as helpful as going to your primary care doctor since they’ll take your full medical history, perform an exam to assess your injury, and run diagnostic tests to find the cause of the problem. Oftentimes, these healthcare professionals perform spinal manipulations, also called chiropractic adjustments, to alleviate pain and tension in your joints. You can receive a chiropractic adjustment for back pain due to car accidents, workplace injuries, aging, and even pregnancy.
Some of the biggest benefits patients enjoy after seeing a chiropractor include:
- Pain relief
- Mobility improvement
- Lower stress levels
All of this contributes to an increased quality of life. However, there are a few drawbacks to chiropractic care that you should factor into your decision.
This might not be the best option for anyone with a chronic condition, such as degenerative disc disease. Opting for a permanent fix like surgery means you won’t have to continuously visit a chiropractor’s clinic for adjustments or soft tissue therapy. If your health insurance policy doesn’t cover chiropractic visits, the cost of receiving regular care can quickly add up.
Your Diagnosis Is Key
Before you start worrying about seeing a back pain chiropractor or surgeon for relief, you have to uncover the root of the problem. Do you have acute or chronic pain? Is the pain severe enough that it keeps you from what you love or do you feel only mild discomfort?
Have a healthcare professional run tests to diagnose your condition. You can then use this information, along with their recommendation, to decide your treatment plan.
Back Surgery vs. Chiropractic Care: How To Decide Which Is Best for You
In many cases, patients with musculoskeletal discomfort can find relief by visiting a chiropractor for back pain. Spinal adjustments serve as a safe, non-invasive form of treatment and don’t require as much downtime as surgery does. If you’re experiencing discomfort along your neck or spine, you should see a chiropractor for an exam.
They will assess the injury by testing your flexibility and range of motion. You might have to undergo diagnostic imaging tests for a closer look at the vertebrae and soft tissue surrounding your spine. A doctor of chiropractic can treat a wide range of conditions but it’s best to see a surgeon if tests show you have the following conditions:
- Tumor along your spine
- Vertebral fracture
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal stenosis
If your condition doesn’t require surgical intervention, it’s in your best interest to seek chiropractic care because of the cost savings, holistic approach, and positive health effects.
Visit an Experienced Chiropractor for Back Pain – Contact Chiropractic Approach Today
The healthcare team at Chiropractic Approach treats a wide range of spinal conditions, including those stemming from car accidents and workplace injuries. We’re happy to help you take control of your life without undergoing painful surgeries.
Our doctors accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection). Same-day appointments may be available. Call our office at (718) 275-1313 to schedule an appointment or learn more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are you still curious about how chiropractors treat back pain? Check out some of the common questions experts receive below.
How Can You Find a Trusted Back Pain Chiropractor?
Ask loved ones to recommend a back pain chiropractor or search online for a provider with good reviews and years of experience.
What Are Common Conditions That Chiropractors Treat?
A chiropractor treats several musculoskeletal conditions, including herniated or bulging discs, pinched nerves, sciatica pain, and arthritis.
How Often Should You See a Chiropractor?
Those with chronic pain may receive chiropractic adjustments two to three times per week, while those who use chiropractic visits for preventative care may go once a month.