By Ken Freedman, D.C.
Back pain affects about 1 out of every 4 United States adults. It’s costly. Low back pain has a major economic impact in the United States. Total costs related to this condition exceed $100 billion per year. It is the leading cause of disability in Americans under 45 years old and more than 26 million Americans between the ages of 20-64 experience frequent back pain.
At a time when people are turning away from dangerous painkilling drugs and surgery, there is new thinking on how to relieve back pain. If you have back pain, don’t gamble. Choose the approach that Consumers Union, the world’s largest independent consumer product-testing organization, reported works among the best. The research reported in the June 2017 issue of Consumer Reports indicate that hands-on methods such as chiropractic care, massage therapy, and tai chi are preferred over drugs or surgery for the treatment of back pain.
In my 38 years as a chiropractor caring for thousands of people, most of my patients sought help for complaints of back pain. The reason why chiropractic care has worked so well for them is because it is less about treating the pain, and more about improving their body’s ability to heal better and function without interference. Back pain sufferers appreciate the chiropractic approach because it is highly effective, drug and surgery free, and much safer.
The results are also more long lasting. Whether you have been suffering with a back problem, or would like to avoid developing one in the future, the best thing you can do is to schedule a chiropractic checkup. It’s relatively fast, painless and very affordable. Most insurance plans offer coverage for chiropractic services related to back pain, but the condition has to meet certain criteria be eligible.
What should you consider before selecting a chiropractor? A direct referral by a trusted friend is a good way to start. If you cannot get a referral, ask if the office you’re considering offers a “tour visit/consultation” at no charge or obligation. This will allow you to meet the doctor and staff, inspect the premises, and discuss your health concerns and goals along with how the doctor can help you meet them, before you commit to a checkup or other services. Ask questions: How many years of experience do they have?
Are there any malpractice claims against them? Find out if the doctor practices a variety of adjusting techniques, including ones that involve absolutely no twisting, popping, or cracking of the spinal joints.
In addition to adjusting your spinal joints, are they also skilled in adjusting the feet, knees, wrists, elbows, shoulders and ribs? Has the doctor invested in computerized technologies to objectively evaluate your body’s function? Is x-ray on site or will you need a referral to an outside facility? How is your care plan personalized to your needs? Does the office offer payment arrangements for qualified patients? Do they have day, evening and weekend hours available, by appointment? When you are meeting with the doctor do they give you their full, undivided attention without acting rushed? Does the office offer services that may complement your care for back pain, such as weight loss, foot orthotics, spinal rehab and strengthening programs? Is lifestyle wellness advice provided to help minimize your need for the medical system and reduce the frequency of chiropractic checkups? Does the doctor have a network of other trusted medical professionals to refer you to should your problem require it?
Your back contains the lifeline of your body. Keep it functioning well, and you’ll heal faster and more completely, limit painful flare-ups, and move better over the duration of a more independent and fulfilling life.
For more information, or to schedule a private consult at no cost or obligation, call 732-254-6011 or email ken@freedmanchiropracticcenter.com. Freedman Chiropractic Center, LLC is located at Brier Hill Court D-6, East Brunswick. Dr. Freedman is the Chairman of the Middlesex County Health & Wellness Council, President of the East Brunswick Advisory Health Council, and also hosts Wellness Spotlight, a health and wellness program on East Brunswick TV Channel 26, and Verizon Channels 37 or 38.
