Chiropractic spinal manipulation and likelihood of tramadol prescription in adults with radicular low back pain: a retrospective cohort study using US data – British Journal of Medicine 2024
Growing body of evidence suggests seeing a chiropractor can help keep radicular back pain (radiates down your leg) patient of prescription drugs such as Gabapentin, opioids and now, Tramadol.
Tramadol is an atypical, synthetic opioid that it is often prescribed for low back pain previous studies have found that individuals with low back pain receiving spinal manipulation are less likely to be prescribed an opioid. This is the first time a study has specifically focused on the use of Tramadol.
As a result of the overuse of opioids in the United States and elsewhere, Tramadol may be prescribed in place of stronger potency opioids as it is often perceived as a safer alternative, with fewer and less severe adverse Events. Several major clinical practice guidelines for low back pain do not provide recommendations for or against Tramadol prescription.
Considering the recent increase in Tramadol prescribing for low back pain the current study aimed to examine the association between receipt of spinal manipulation and tramadol prescription among adults with a new diagnosis of radicular low back pain. It found that Tramadol prescription was significantly lower in patients that received Chiropractic spinal manipulation compared to patients that received only medical attention.
Manipulation or adjustments is a procedure in which trained specialists usually chiropractors use their hands in a controlled sudden force to a spinal joint. The goal of this procedure is to improve spinal motion and improve your body’s physical function. Chiropractic adjustments are safe when performed by someone trained and licensed and serious complications are rare.
A chiropractor is uniquely trained and qualified to diagnose issues concerning your spine, muscles and joints. They’re also qualified to diagnose nervous system conditions related to your spine, muscles and joints.
Chiropractors assess, diagnose and treat your conditions with non-invasive, medication-free, hands-on care. They also use modalities such as laser and electrotherapy and prescribe function rehabilitation exercises.
To learn to be a chiropractor and practice in Canada, students must first complete at least seven years of post-secondary education, including more than 4,200 hours of specialized chiropractic training. Following this formal education, graduates must pass standardized regulatory exams and attain a license to practice in a Canadian province or territory.
