Majority of Americans Suffer Back or Neck Pain

Back and neck pain are among the main reasons patients consult a chiropractor. A Gallup poll taken during winter 2016 reveals just how prevalent neck and back pain are in the US.

According to Gallup results, one in four adults has sought care for back or neck pain in the last year. Over the course of their lifetimes, 65% have sought care for the same. That leaves a lucky one-third of adults not suffering back or neck pain–unless they’re suffering in silence.

The study, commissioned by Palmer College of Chiropractic, asks respondents their impressions of the effectiveness of five treatment options for neck and back pain:

  • physical therapy
  • chiropractic care
  • prescription pain medication
  • back surgery
  • self-care

Roughly four in 10 U.S. adults (41%) say physical therapy is “very effective,” while nearly three in 10 (29%) say the same about chiropractic care. Twenty-two percent describe prescription pain medication as “very effective,” and 15% say this about back surgery. U.S. adults view self-care as the least effective option, rated “very effective” by just 9%.

However, when asked what type of professional they would seek for back/neck pain, assuming all costs would be equal, chiropractic care was the very strong second choice. Medical doctor was first (53%), then chiropractor (28%), massage therapist (7%), physical therapist (6%), and acupuncturist (1%).

Check out the entire study right here:
http://www.gallup.com/poll/194984/one-four-adults-sought-care-neck-back-pain-last-year.aspx

When we review these numbers, one thing is clear–many people are uncertain about chiropractic, as revealed by the number of people who respond “I don’t know” when asked about the safety or efficacy of chiropractic care.

We’re glad to see that our work is cut out for us. We’re here to introduce more people to the power of chiropractic care, and ultimately to reduce the number of people suffering back/neck pain. With regular maintenance and preventive treatment from an experienced chiropractor, many patients encounter significantly less pain in these regions.

Thanks to the rise of alternative treatment modalities in the US, chiropractic care is on the radar for more and more people every day. We invite our clients to share their success stories with their friends and families, and we especially urge anyone new to chiropractic to book a visit at Life Wellness Center to learn firsthand the benefits of chiropractic care for back and neck pain, as well as other physical complaints of nearly every description.

We’re here to show you how safe and effective chiropractic care can be. Call us today to schedule an appointment to learn more about how we can help alleviate your back and neck pain, 952-435-5300.

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