Did you know that current research notes that 52% of all opioid prescriptions are for patients with low back pain, and over 2 million Americans suffer from opioid use disorder. 47,000 died from opioid use disorder in 2017. In light of the opioid epidemic, the high cost of diagnostic tests, invasive treatments, and the low level of satisfaction with this care, Boston university school of public health researchers decided to find better options for low back pain management. They found that a patient’s initial choice of healthcare provider plays a significant role in their prospects for a successful outcome from the patient and the insurance companies perspective.
This research prompted a major healthcare insurance carrier to send their policyholders a notice to promote initial care for low back pain with a chiropractor or physical therapist. The carrier says that this move is expected to reduce the use of spinal imaging tests by 21%, spinal surgeries by 21%, and opioid prescriptions by 19%. This leads to lower costs for employers and plan participants.
The American College of physicians also agree with this recommendation, that non-drug, non-surgical care should be the initial course of treatment for a low back pain patient. A growing body of research on the effectiveness of non-surgical, non-drug approaches for managing low back pain are as follows:
- A 2020 study found that 22% of patients who initially visited their primary care doctor (PCP) for low back pain received a short-term opioid prescription.Those who first consulted with a PT or DC were 85-90% less likely to require an opioid prescription.
- A 2015 study found that patients who initially received care from a DC were more satisfied with their care than those who visited a PCP first, and the overall treatment costs were lower.
- In 2013, researchers analyzed data from Washington state worker’s compensation cases. They found that 43% of workers with a back injury who initially consulted with a surgeon ended up having surgery. Only 1.5% of those who first received chiropractic treatment eventually had a surgical procedure for their back pain.
- A study published in 2019 found that low back pain patients were less likely to see DC/PTs vs. PCPs when the insurance plan had more restrictions on DC/PT visits (higher co-pays, deductibles, participation in programs such as a health savings account).
Let’s face it. It’s becoming more clear that conservative treatment approaches such as chiropractic care should be the initial recommendation for patients who suffer from low back pain and other musculoskeletal conditions. This will lead to a reduced use of harmful opioids, and there will be cost savings for patients and insurers. If you are experiencing any pain, come and see us today.
Through chiropractic, physical therapy and other treatment options, we have many options to help you. Schedule an appointment today or call us (908) 325-3000
