The number of lumbar fusion surgeries for low back pain increased from 61,000 to 450,000 per year between 1993 and 2013. Approximately 61% of patients who undergo back surgery will continue to experience chronic low back pain afterward. Patients will often seek non-surgical treatment to alleviate their pain. Chiropractors in North Dallas can help.

According to a survey of 62 chiropractors in the Veterans Administration health care system, more than 90% have treated at least one post-fusion patient in the previous month, and over two-thirds have treated one to five such patients in a month. These patients receive referrals from their medical provider, physical therapist, or orthopedic surgeon.

When a patient who has had lumbar fusion visits a chiropractor, what can he or she expect? An X-ray is typically taken when the chiropractor examines a post-fusion patient, in addition to taking their medical history and physical examination. Patients may receive standing x-rays while bending forward and backward. This enables the chiropractor to check for broken screws or other hardware malfunctions that may require a follow-up surgical consultation. An X-ray will also allow the chiropractic doctor to check the spinal joints above and below the fused segments, which often become hypermobile to compensate for the lack of mobility in the fused segments. Injuries and pain related to these joints are common.

Studies have shown that chiropractic treatment can provide relief from low back pain following lumbar fusion surgery.  No studies to date have found any serious adverse side effects for these patients. Studies also show that chiropractic care reduces opioid use, increases patient satisfaction, and reduces disability in low back pain patients. All these are compelling reasons to schedule a chiropractic appointment today!