Does Chiropractic Manipulation Really Work?

Chiropractic manipulation is a commonly used treatment option for low back pain. The efficacy of chiropractic manipulation for low back pain has been evaluated in several studies. Here are some references to studies on this topic:

Rubinstein SM, Terwee CB, Assendelft WJ, de Boer MR, van Tulder MW. Spinal manipulative therapy for acute low back pain: an update of the Cochrane review. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2013 Apr 1;38(7):E158-77. doi: 10.1097/BRS.0b013e3182814fb1. PMID: 23474555.

This systematic review and meta-analysis of 26 randomized controlled trials found that spinal manipulative therapy (SMT), including chiropractic manipulation, is an effective treatment option for acute low back pain, with short-term benefits comparable to other commonly used treatments.

Goertz CM, Long CR, Hondras MA, Petri R, Delgado R, Lawrence DJ, Owens EF, Meeker WC. Adding chiropractic manipulative therapy to standard medical care for patients with acute low back pain: results from a pragmatic randomized comparative effectiveness study. Spine (Phila Pa 1976). 2013 Apr 15;38(8):627-34. doi: 10.1097/BRS.0b013e31827733e7. PMID: 23485967.

This randomized controlled trial found that adding chiropractic manipulation to standard medical care for patients with acute low back pain resulted in significant improvements in pain and functional status compared to standard medical care alone.

Bronfort G, Hondras MA, Schulz CA, Evans RL, Long CR, Grimm R. Spinal manipulation and home exercise with advice for subacute and chronic back-related leg pain: a trial with adaptive allocation. Ann Intern Med. 2014 Jul 1;161(1):1-9. doi: 10.7326/M13-1703. PMID: 25023252.

This randomized controlled trial evaluated the efficacy of spinal manipulation, including chiropractic manipulation, and home exercise with advice for subacute and chronic back-related leg pain. The study found that spinal manipulation and home exercise with advice resulted in greater improvements in pain and function compared to home exercise with advice alone.

Overall, these studies provide evidence supporting the efficacy of chiropractic manipulation as a treatment option for low back pain. However, it is important to note that individual results may vary, and it is always recommended to consult with a healthcare provider before beginning any new treatment.