Chiropractic: A Smart Choice for Reducing Medical Costs, Disability, and Missed Work

Did you know that low back pain is the number one cause of disability worldwide? It's something most of us will face at some point—over 80% of people, in fact. And it's not just a personal issue; it hits our wallets and workplaces hard, with costs soaring over $100 billion every year. A big chunk of that, about two-thirds, comes from lost wages and productivity. Simply put, back pain can really throw a wrench in our daily lives and work routines.

In the U.S., about 25% of people aged 18 to 44 deal with back pain, and 20% of this group also suffer from frequent headaches. Over the last two decades, the costs associated with back and neck pain have shot up. These issues lead to tens of billions in lost wages annually, highlighting just how crucial Chiropractic care can be for working Americans.

A 2011 study looked into the effectiveness of three different approaches to treating low back pain in the workplace. This study followed 894 cases and assessed the long-term benefits of each method. The three groups were treated by chiropractors, medical doctors, and physical therapists, each offering their specialized care based on individual patient needs. The results? Chiropractic care came out on top, with patients needing less expensive medical services and experiencing shorter initial periods of disability. They also had fewer surgeries and used fewer opioid drugs.

The study's findings suggest that Chiropractic care not only costs less but also delivers better results. Even when Chiropractic patients did experience a relapse, it happened an average of 29 days later than those treated by physical therapists or medical doctors.

These results make a strong case for Chiropractic care as the go-to solution for low back pain. Patients who start with Chiropractic care often see improvements in their overall health and functionality. This is because the spine is closely connected to the brain and central nervous system. An adjustment can impact many aspects of health and performance, from blood pressure to organ function.

Chiropractic has been transforming lives for nearly 125 years. People of all ages have stories about how regular adjustments have improved their health. Whether it's better heart function, stronger immunity, improved breathing and digestion, or even changes in reproductive health, Chiropractic care has made a significant difference. Whether you're on the job or at home, Chiropractic care is a smart, effective choice.

Journal of Occupational and Environmental Medicine April 2011
"Health maintenance care in work-related low back pain and its association with disability recurrence."
M Cifuentes, J Willetts, R Wasiak