Back pain is a common health problem, and many people seek various methods to relieve pain, among which chiropractic has become one of the popular choices. Proponents of this alternative medicine approach believe that manual manipulation of the spine can improve overall health, but current scientific research has called this into question. This article will explore the background of chiropractic correction, its main techniques, and its effectiveness for back pain.
The core philosophy of chiropractic is that there is a fundamental connection between the spine and health, and that this connection is mediated through the nervous system.
Chiropractic was founded by D.D. Palmer in the late 19th century based on the original concept that misalignment of the spine could affect the health of the body and the claim that regular spinal adjustments could provide health benefits. The main technique in this approach is manipulation of the spine, sometimes combined with exercise and healthy lifestyle coaching.
While many chiropractors consider themselves primary care providers, their clinical training does not meet the requirements for this qualification. In fact, a systematic review of the clinical effectiveness of spinal correction showed that there is no reliable evidence that spinal adjustment is effective for other conditions besides back pain. A 2011 comprehensive review stated that "the included data failed to convincingly demonstrate that spinal manipulation is an effective intervention."
Spinal adjustments are considered potentially cost-effective for the treatment of subacute or chronic low back pain, but are less effective for acute low back pain.
There is also controversy regarding the safety of spinal correction. Research indicates that while many side effects of chiropractic adjustments are mild, some may lead to more serious complications such as stroke. Particularly with regard to manipulation of the cervical spine, some deaths have been linked to this technique, a link that has been questioned by some chiropractors.
The term vertebral subluxation has a clear definition in scientific medicine, but in chiropractic, this concept is often controversial and lacks strong evidence to support it.
Chiropractic remains a controversial treatment compared to mainstream medicine. On the one hand, many chiropractors are willing to accept some of the diagnostic and treatment methods of mainstream medicine, calling for a science-based practice. However, there are still a considerable number of people who adhere to the traditional "straight school", which regards subluxation of the spine as the root cause of the disease.
When faced with back pain, patients have a variety of treatment options. Different treatments may be considered, including physical therapy, medication, and chiropractic adjustments. Many experts suggest that the most effective treatment should be individualized based on the patient's specific circumstances.
While chiropractic may demonstrate some benefit in certain specific conditions, such as chronic back pain, it should not be considered a panacea for all related health issues. Back pain in adults is often multifactorial, so it is wise to seek professional medical advice.
Whether chiropractic should be considered the primary treatment option for back pain remains a matter of debate.
Although the effectiveness of chiropractic correction has not been consistently supported by science, many people still believe in and choose this treatment method. How to choose between different treatments? It is worth our consideration.