February Is for Self-Care: An Evidence-Based Look at Chiropractic and Your Health

Chiropractic care is sometimes misunderstood as only pain relief, but research shows it can be a valuable part of conservative, non-drug care for certain conditions.

Let’s look at what the evidence actually says.

What Research Supports About Chiropractic Care

Does Chiropractic help with Low Back Pain?

Clinical guidelines from the American College of Physicians recommend spinal manipulation as a non-drug option for acute and chronic low back pain. This places chiropractic alongside exercise, heat therapy, and physical therapy as first-line conservative care.

Research consistently shows spinal manipulation can:

• Reduce low back pain

• Improve function and mobility

• Lower reliance on pain medication

Neck Pain and Headaches

Studies published in peer-reviewed journals, including the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics, have found that spinal manipulation and manual therapy can help some patients with:

• Mechanical neck pain

• Cervicogenic headaches

• Tension-type headaches

These therapies are often most effective when combined with posture changes and exercise.

A Conservative First Approach

Organizations like the National Institutes of Health emphasize the value of conservative care before moving to more invasive treatments for many musculoskeletal issues.

Conservative care may include:

• Movement and exercise

• Manual therapies

• Lifestyle modifications

• Stress management

Chiropractic care fits into this model by focusing on joint mobility, muscle balance, and nervous system support.

So if you are thinking about trying chiropractic but wondering if it is right for you just remember that it is reasonable to feel skeptical about any medical treatments.  Remmebber that chiropractic is not a cure all but a conservative hands on option thtat can help with certain conditions when used appropriatly.  

Good chiropractic care should include an exam, clear explanations, and referrals and comangment when something is outside the chiropractor’s scope. Like any healthcare choice, it works best when patients stay informed, ask questions, and view it as one piece of a broader health plan that may also include exercise, medical care, and healthy lifestyle habits.

Have questions about chiropractic? Please call us for a free phone consult or an appointment!