Study Finds Chiropractic Spinal Manipulation Significantly Reduces Need For Lumbar Spine Reoperation
University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center — A recent study from University Hospitals (UH) Connor Whole Health has highlighted the potential benefits of chiropractic spinal manipulation (CSM) for adults suffering from ongoing sciatica following low back surgery. The research, published in BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, reveals a significant reduction in the need for additional lumbar spine operations among patients receiving CSM. A Clinton, MD, chiropractor from AmeriWell Clinics can help you understand your options for non-surgical relief of lumber spine concerns, including CSM.
The study, titled “Association between spinal manipulative therapy and lumbar spine reoperation after discectomy: a retrospective cohort study,” examined whether CSM, administered at least one year after lumbar discectomy, could lower the likelihood of reoperation compared to standard medical care. Researchers utilized data from TriNetX, Inc., covering health records from 2003 to 2023, and applied propensity matching to ensure comparability between the chiropractic and usual medical care groups.
The analysis included 756 patients, averaging 61 years of age. Results showed that patients receiving CSM had a 45% lower chance of undergoing additional lumbar surgery compared to those receiving only conventional medical care. Specifically, 7% of patients in the CSM group required reoperation, compared to 13% in the usual care group.
Lead author Robert J. Trager, DC, remarked, “This is the largest study of its kind to date and demonstrates promising results for chiropractic care in this context. However, as an observational study, our findings must be interpreted with caution.”
The study suggests exploring comparisons with other non-surgical interventions such as physical therapy or acupuncture to better understand the broader implications of non-surgical treatments in managing spinal conditions.
Can Chiropractic Spinal Manipulation Reduce Your Need For Invasive Surgery?
Chiropractic spinal manipulation is increasingly recognized for its potential to reduce the need for invasive surgical procedures. This non-surgical approach focuses on aligning the spine and improving overall spinal function through manual adjustments. Research suggests that CSM can be an effective alternative or complementary treatment to surgery, particularly for conditions like herniated discs, sciatica, and lower back pain.
Several studies have shown that chiropractic care can alleviate symptoms and improve function, potentially decreasing the necessity for surgical intervention. For example, a recent study indicated that patients who received chiropractic spinal manipulation experienced a significant reduction in the likelihood of undergoing additional lumbar surgery compared to those receiving conventional medical care alone.
CSM helps by addressing the root causes of spinal issues, improving spinal alignment, and reducing nerve irritation. This can lead to enhanced mobility and pain relief, which may prevent the progression of conditions that would otherwise necessitate surgery.
While chiropractic care is not a cure-all, it offers a conservative treatment option that, when combined with other therapies, can effectively manage symptoms and improve quality of life. For many, CSM may reduce the need for more invasive procedures, making it a valuable component of a comprehensive treatment plan.
Comprehensive Chiropractic Care In Clinton, MD
At AmeriWell Clinics, we see many patients who come to us in hopes of avoiding invasive surgical procedures or having to take medication or painkillers. While each patient’s needs differ, we have seen firsthand how many benefit from CSM. Our collaborative approach to patient care means that we work with other members of your treatment team to provide the best care for your symptoms. Call our offices today to talk to a Clinton chiropractor about CSM and other non-surgical treatments we offer.