Studies document value of chiropractic to mitigate incidents, costs of back pain

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April 9, 2013 — A new study, “Aging baby boomers and the rising cost of chronic back pain: secular trend analysis of longitudinal Medical Expenditures Panel Survey (MEPS) data for years 2000 to 2007,” (J Manipulative Physiol Ther.; 1.1.2013), concludes that the prevalence of back pain and costs associated with existing treatment patterns have and will continue to escalate — in part due to an aging population.

According to the Foundation for Chiropractic Progress (F4CP), a not-for-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness about the value of chiropractic care, utilization of chiropractic care presents opportunities for improved patient outcomes and decreased costs.

“Chiropractic care is a cost-effective, evidence-based approach that is well-documented for its outstanding patient outcomes and satisfaction scores,” states Gerard Clum, DC, spokesperson, F4CP,  referencing the latest study, “Spinal High-Velocity Low Amplitude Manipulation in Acute Nonspecific Low Back Pain: A Double-Blinded Randomized Controlled Trial in Comparison With Diclofenac and Placebo,” (Spine; 4.1.2013), which found spinal manipulation to be significantly better than non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug diclofenac and clinically superior to placebo for patients with acute non-specific low back pain. “When used as a primary treatment option for back pain, chiropractic can boost avoidance of risky and costly measures, and promote equal or greater clinical outcomes.”

The JMPT analysis conducted by researchers out of National University of Health Sciences found no indication of a decline in regards to the number of chronic back pain incidents and costs coupled with current treatment patterns. The conclusion demonstrates the strong need for better organization of healthcare spending and traditional treatment standards.

Clum asserts the need for a fundamental re-evaluation of our nation’s healthcare system, adding, “To improve the system, it will be essential that patient care approaches with clinical and economic advantages — such as chiropractic care — be the focal point of progressive healthcare and health policy discussions.”

Source: Foundation for Chiropractic Progress, f4cp.org