Low Back Pain
Low back pain is one of the most common disorders affecting American
adults. It is estimated that 75 million Americans will have it
each year, and that 80 percent of the adult population will have
low back pain at some time.
Low back pain is the most common cause of disability among the
30-50 year age group.
Because these age groups are usually the most productive in the
work force, the economic impact of low back pain is enormous.
Low back pain patients comprise the second largest diagnostic
group seen by medical family practitioners, yet the common treatments
recommended by these practitioners are often found to be ineffective.
A prominent medical low back pain researcher has suggested that
family physicians consider referring these patients for chiropractic
care, as it has proven helpful for this disorder.
Low back pain generally is a mechanical disorder that needs suitable
treatment. Chiropractic manipulation is just such a method.
In the medical journal Canadian Family Physician,
Dr. William Kirkaldy-Willis, professor of orthopedic surgery at
the
University
of Saskatchewan, reported on a study of chronic low back pain patients.
The results of treatment with chiropractic manipulation were so
favorable that Dr. Kirkaldy-Willis summarized that those medical
doctors who refer their patients for this treatment will provide
relief for many who would not otherwise be helped.
Indeed, growing numbers of low back pain sufferers are turning
to chiropractic each year and are finding relief. Many people who
were frustrated before seeking chiropractic treatment return to
an active lifestyle, not restricted by disabling pain. The latest
statistics show that about one half of low back patients now see
a chiropractor, and the percentage should be much greater. Chiropractic
is both a safe and effective way to deal with low back pain, the
unwanted American tradition.
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