Back Pain Facts and Statistics

Back Pain Fact and Statistics

Although doctors of chiropractic treat more than just back pain, a large percentage of
chiropractic patients visit their doctor looking for relief from this pervasive condition. In fact, 70
to 85 percent of all people have back pain at some time in their life. 

If a person has back pain, what should they do?

If your back pain is not resolving quickly, visit your doctor of chiropractic. Your pain will often 

result from mechanical problems that your doctor of chiropractic can address. Many chiropractic 

patients with relatively long-lasting or recurring back pain feel improvement shortly after starting 

chiropractic treatment. The relief is often greater after a month of chiropractic treatment than 

after seeing a family physician. 

The chiropractic approach is to find the cause of the pain and treat it directly. This may involve 

realigning the spine or extremities by chiropractic adjustments, physiotherapy for the muscles 

and ligaments, rehabilitative exercises, or a combination of these. Sometimes the doctor of 

chiropractic will suggest exercises or activities to prevent a reoccurrence of the problem. This 

may provide a long term solution to the condition through prevention. 

Chiropractic spinal manipulation is proven to be a safe, effective, and affordable treatment option. Chiropractic care reduces pain, restores normal range of motion, and decreases the need for medication. 

Tips to Prevent Back Pain 
Some back pain is caused by non-preventable factors (traumatic accidents, congenital defects,
tumors), but the majority of low back pain is preventable. Suggestions on how you can prevent
back pain include:
• Maintain a healthy diet and weight.
• Remain active.
• Avoid prolonged inactivity or bed rest.
• Warm up or stretch before exercising or other physical activities.
• Maintain proper posture.
• Wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes.
• Sleep on a mattress of medium firmness to minimize any curve in your spine.
• Lift with your knees, keep the object close to your body, and do not twist when lifting.
• Quit smoking. Smoking impairs blood flow, resulting in oxygen and nutrient deprivation
to spinal tissues.
• Work with your doctor of chiropractic to ensure that your workstation is ergonomically
correct