Why Your First Stop for Back Pain Shouldn't Be the Operating Table

Chronic back pain is a pervasive problem, affecting millions of people and costing the healthcare system billions each year. When the pain becomes unbearable, many people consider surgery as a definitive fix. But a landmark study in the journal Spine raises a critical question: is surgery really the best first option?

The Spine study, published in 2013, tracked a large group of workers in Washington State with work-related back injuries. The results were eye-opening. Of the workers who first consulted a surgeon, a staggering 42.7% ended up undergoing back surgery. In sharp contrast, for those who first sought care from a chiropractor, only a tiny fraction—1.5%—had surgery.

This data isn't a fluke. It highlights a clear pattern: the type of provider you choose for your initial back pain evaluation has a massive impact on the treatment path you'll take.

So, why the huge difference? The answer lies in the fundamental philosophy of care.

Surgeons are trained to diagnose and treat conditions with surgical interventions. While surgery is absolutely necessary in some cases, it's often seen as a solution when other, less invasive options haven't been fully explored.

Chiropractors, on the other hand, focus on a conservative, non-surgical approach. Their goal is to identify and address the root cause of your pain. They also emphasize therapies, exercises, and lifestyle modifications to help your body heal naturally. This approach aims to restore proper function and reduce pain without the risks and recovery time associated with surgery.

If you are struggling with back pain, consider chiropractic care! We would love to help! Give us a call at (615)-900-5187 or visit our website www.tennesseebackpaincenter.com

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