Back Pain Is Extremely Common — but Medication Often Falls Short

An estimated 80% of Americans will experience back pain at some point in their lives. It is also the second most common reason for doctor visits, surpassed only by upper-respiratory infections.

A survey of 800 adults with chronic back pain, conducted in spring 2004 for the American Chiropractic Association, found:

  • 18% said their chronic pain began with an accident or injury.

  • Nearly 40% described their pain as severe or very severe.

  • 71% had dealt with chronic pain for five years or longer.

Although more than 80% said they preferred not to use medication, most were already taking some form of pain reliever. Almost two-thirds said they would consider seeing a chiropractor, yet only 14% were currently under chiropractic care.

Medication use among respondents included:

  • 25% using over-the-counter pain relievers

  • 25%+ using anti-inflammatory drugs or narcotics

  • About 20% using muscle relaxants

Despite this, many did not feel their pain was well managed. Only a minority felt their pain was adequately controlled, while 30% said their pain was not under control and 39% said it was only moderately controlled.

Evidence continues to support chiropractic care as an option for chronic spinal pain. A study published in Spine (July 15, 2003) found that manual manipulation provided better relief for chronic spinal pain than acupuncture or various medications. Click here to read about natural pain control strategies.