Back pain, especially chronic back pain, can make life miserable; this condition is quite common in the military. Randomized trials have found that spinal manipulation can be effective for lower back pain. One 2013 study specifically compared chiropractic therapy to general medical care in military personnel, 18-35 years old. The results suggest reduced pain and improved physical wellbeing and function as compared to patients who only received the standard care.

These studies confirm the well-established truth that the majority of individuals with back pain find relief with chiropractic treatment. The U.S. is not the only country utilizing chiropractic care for military back pain, either. The Canadian Armed Forces also offer chiropractic services and a survey among their military personnel found that more than 90% were satisfied with their chiropractic services.

Neck pain is another common complaint among military personnel. A study from the University of Pennsylvania Spine Center found that chiropractic care, along with other alternative therapies like acupuncture, massage, yoga and T’ai Chi, had positive results in addressing neck pain. The VA of western New York also examined the effectiveness of chiropractic care for neck pain among 54 veterans, who reported significant and meaningful improvements after an average of about 9 sessions.

Chiropractic care can be a very effective alternative to painkillers and provide real long-term relief for other health problems as well, absent of the side effects that often accompany prescription drugs.

Presented as a service to the community by: Union County Chiropractic Clinic, 110 Skyline Drive, Maynardville, TN (865) 992-7000 www.unioncountychiropractic.com