Chiropractic Versus Mobilization for Back Pain Relief
By Debra Rodzinak
With many different studies that have looked at the overall effects of spinal manipulation therapy on lower back pain, a recent study published in The Spine Journal looked at the success of spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) versus mobilization (MOB). The study wanted to find out which form of therapy was more effective at relieving lower back pain. The study also applied more stringent criteria than other studies have in the past.
Study Methods and Evidence
To keep the validity of the study, researchers involved independent reviewers to study the data and report their findings. A search of studies focused on finding research that encompassed studies that had at least 10 or more participants who were subjected to either spinal manipulative therapy or mobilization to relieve their lower back pain. The studies were independently scrutinized for study quality and abstract data with attention to statistical significance. In all, over 69 different studies were reviewed and 43 were used for evidence.
The evidence showed that for lower back pain relief, spinal manipulative therapy provided more pain relief in the short-term than mobilization. Spinal manipulative therapy was also found to have a faster recovery time than physical therapy treatments.
For chronic lower back pain (pain that lasts for three months or more), the evidence pointed to spinal manipulative therapy being more effective for pain relief when compared to care by a general practitioner, physical therapy, or home back exercises.
Study Results
The study concluded that spinal manipulative therapy is a viable option for the treatment of lower back pain. It was suggested that additional studies should focus on the value of spinal manipulative therapy for acute back pain and the number of treatments needed to find relief.
If you currently suffer from lower back pain, come by The Joint and discuss treatment options with one of our highly qualified doctors of chiropractic. At The Joint, patients are put in control of their treatment plan. At The Joint, patients decide what types of treatments to use to help them find pain relief and overall wellness.
For those who are looking for a natural path to wellness without the use of drugs or surgery to relieve their lower back pain, The Joint is the perfect place to start. Many times, the cost of a chiropractic treatment at The Joint is less than an insurance copay.
With over 360 locations nationwide, finding a location convenient to you is easy. With no pesky insurance forms to fill out or appointment times to remember, finding relief for your lower back pain is just a walk-in away.
To learn more about your health and wellness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic.