Low back pain is one of the most common and debilitating conditions affecting millions of people worldwide. Chiropractic care, particularly spinal adjustments, have been widely used as a non-invasive treatment option for low back pain. Below is an overview of the evidence supporting the use of chiropractic care for low back pain, including key research findings.

Overview of Chiropractic Care for Low Back Pain

Chiropractic care focuses on diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal disorders, with an emphasis on spinal health. For low back pain, chiropractors typically use chiropractic adjustments which involve applying controlled force to the spine to improve mobility, reduce pain, and enhance overall function.

Key Research Supporting Chiropractic Care for Low Back Pain

American College of Physicians (ACP) Guidelines
- In 2017, the ACP released updated clinical guidelines recommending spinal manipulation as a first-line treatment for acute and chronic low back pain. The guidelines emphasised the importance of non-drug therapies, including chiropractic care, for managing low back pain due to its safety and effectiveness.
Cochrane Review (2011)
- A systematic review conducted by the Cochrane Collaboration in 2011 evaluated the effectiveness of spinal manipulation for chronic low back pain. The review concluded that spinal manipulation is more effective than placebo treatments and as effective as other common interventions like exercise and pain medications for reducing pain and improving function in patients with chronic low back pain.
Spine Journal Study (2013)
- A 2013 study published in The Spine Journal found that patients with chronic low back pain who received chiropractic adjustments experienced significant improvements in pain and disability compared to those who received only standard medical care. The study highlighted that chiropractic care was associated with higher patient satisfaction and better outcomes in terms of pain relief and functional improvement.
JAMA Network Open Study (2020)
- A study published in JAMA Network Open in 2020 evaluated the effectiveness of spinal manipulation for acute low back pain in a military population. The study found that chiropractic care, combined with standard medical care, resulted in significantly greater improvements in pain and disability compared to standard medical care alone. The findings suggest that spinal manipulation is a valuable addition to traditional medical treatments for low back pain.
BMJ (British Medical Journal) Study (2018)
- A study published in the BMJ in 2018 compared the effectiveness of spinal manipulation with other treatments for low back pain, including physical therapy and exercise. The study found that spinal manipulation provided similar benefits to these treatments, with some patients experiencing greater improvements in pain and mobility.

Additional Benefits of Chiropractic Care for Low Back Pain

Reduced Need for Pain Medications
- Chiropractic care offers a drug-free approach to managing low back pain, reducing the need for opioids and other pain medications. This is particularly important in the context of the ongoing global opioid crisis, as chiropractic care can help minimise reliance on medications that carry the risk of addiction and side effects.
Cost-Effectiveness
- Several studies have indicated that chiropractic care is a cost-effective treatment for low back pain. A study published in Spine (2012) found that patients who received chiropractic care had lower overall healthcare costs and shorter durations of disability compared to those who received other forms of care.
Safety
- Chiropractic care is generally considered safe when performed by a trained and licensed chiropractor. The risk of serious adverse events is low, and the benefits of spinal adjustments often outweigh the risks, especially when used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan for low back pain.

Conclusion

The evidence supporting the use of chiropractic care for low back pain is strong, with numerous studies and clinical guidelines endorsing spinal adjustments as an effective treatment option. Chiropractic care offers significant benefits, including pain relief, improved function, reduced reliance on medications, and enhanced quality of life for patients suffering from low back pain. As a non-invasive and cost-effective approach, chiropractic care is a valuable tool in the management of this widespread condition.