Manual Therapy and Back Pain- The Evdience

Manual Therapy VS The Evidence

 

A common thought among people is that manual therapy such as osteopathy, chiropractic and sports therapy are not backed by science and that it is not as effective as pharmaceutical care. However, there is an abundance of evidence which supports manual therapy which highlights the importance of manual therapy and its support for the healthcare system. Lucky for you readers, I have written the key takeaways from a 2016 study on chiropractic care and its effectiveness and economic impact for the treatment for lower back pain. 

 

The 2016 review written by Blanchette et al (2016) that included 26 studies found chiropractic care to be moderately effective in reducing pain and improving function for people with low back pain, a condition that affects millions worldwide. This type of care was also shown to be cost-effective compared to other treatments, offering patients a more affordable option for managing their symptoms. The review emphasized that chiropractic care provides significant benefits, not only by reducing pain but also by enhancing patients’ ability to move and carry out daily activities.

 

Chiropractic care works through several mechanisms. One key aspect is spinal manipulations which improves movement and flexibility while reducing stiffness. Another benefit is the modulation of pain perception, meaning chiropractic adjustments can help the brain process pain signals in a way that reduces discomfort. There’s also evidence suggesting that chiropractic care promotes neuroplasticity, which refers to the brain's ability to adapt and reorganize itself in response to pain or injury. These mechanisms contribute to the effectiveness of chiropractic care in treating low back pain.

 

Research has also shown that specific groups of people, such as pregnant women, older adults, and athletes, can particularly benefit from chiropractic care. Pregnant women often experience back pain due to the physical changes in their bodies, and chiropractic care can provide relief without the need for medication. Similarly, older adults with age-related spinal issues and athletes with injuries caused by strain can benefit from chiropractic adjustments. The ability of chiropractic care to be tailored to different populations makes it a versatile and valuable treatment option.

 

The growing body of evidence supporting chiropractic care positions it as a reliable and effective treatment for low back pain. Many patients appreciate that chiropractic care does not rely on medication or invasive procedures, such as surgery, which can have side effects or longer recovery times. Instead, chiropractic care offers a natural and non-invasive approach to pain relief. While it may not cure all cases of low back pain, it can significantly help patients manage their symptoms, improve mobility, and enhance their quality of life.

 

Blanchette et al. (2016) conducted an important review of the clinical outcomes and cost-effectiveness of chiropractic care for low back pain. Their review focused on studies conducted in real-world settings, which provide insights into how chiropractic treatments perform in everyday practice. The financial benefits of chiropractic care were highlighted, as it tends to be less expensive than conventional medical treatments like prescription medications or surgeries. This makes chiropractic care more accessible for patients looking for a cost-effective solution to manage their pain.

 

The review also explored the attitudes of medical professionals toward chiropractic care, particularly orthopedic surgeons. The authors found that opinions varied, with some surgeons supporting chiropractic care and others remaining more skeptical. These attitudes influence whether general practitioners refer patients to chiropractors. Collaboration between chiropractors and other healthcare providers can improve patient access to chiropractic care, especially when doctors are informed about its benefits.

 

The authors stressed the importance of following clinical practice guidelines for treating low back pain. They argued that integrating chiropractic care with other treatments, such as physical therapy or exercise programs, could lead to better patient outcomes. By working together, healthcare providers can ensure patients receive comprehensive care that not only addresses their symptoms but also improves their overall health and well-being.

 

Blanchette et al. (2016) made a strong case for the integration of chiropractic care into the broader healthcare system. This approach, which includes chiropractic care as part of a multidisciplinary treatment plan, can help optimize patient outcomes and promote long-term health. As a result, healthcare professionals should recognize chiropractic care’s role in the holistic management of low back pain, ensuring that patients receive well-rounded and patient-centered treatment.

 

In conclusion, this review highlights the effectiveness, cost-efficiency, and broad applicability of chiropractic care for low back pain. It sets the foundation for further research into how chiropractic care can be integrated into healthcare systems to better serve patients. With growing evidence supporting its benefits, chiropractic care remains a valuable treatment option for people seeking relief from low back pain.