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Government study: Chiropractic recommended

In 1994, The United States Agency for Health Care Policy and Research reviewed the many different care options for acute low-back pain. The research panel was looking at what would produce functional improvements as well as symptomatic improvements. They looked at over 100 studies that related to spinal manipulation (the non-specific, medical term used for Chiropractic adjustments) and concluded it was helpful for people suffering from acute low-back pain.

 

The researchers also found that other common approaches did not measure up to the standards set. Found to be ineffective and of unproven value were:

 

Physical Therapy
traction
ultrasound
massage
laser treatment
TENS  (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation)
bio-feedback
muscle relaxers
prolonged bed rest (more than 4 days)
injections
steroids
early surgical intervention
acupuncture

 

Chiropractic was the only option studied found to provide both symptomatic improvement as well as restoration of functional stability. The research panel included medical doctors, osteopaths, nurses and physical therapists. There were no chiropractors included. s