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Healthy News March 2025 Chiropractic Care and Opioid Reduction for Back and Neck Pain

picture of McHenry back pain relief 

Back and neck pain continue to be leading causes of chronic discomfort, resulting in significant dependency on opioids for relief. However, research shows that chiropractic care may offer an effective, drug-free alternative, minimizing the need for opioids while effectively managing pain.

Chiropractic treatments, such as spinal manipulation and manual decompression, target the root cause of pain by addressing musculoskeletal misalignments. Research supports their effectiveness: a 2025 study by Trager et al. found that chiropractic care for sciatica not only alleviated pain but also led to fewer opioid-related adverse events. (1) Similarly, Kruse et al. (2023) found that patients with failed back surgery syndrome significantly lowered their opioid use after just three months of manual spinal decompression therapy. (2)

Beyond back pain relief, chiropractic care delivers] more benefits by reducing reliance on opioids. This minimizes the risk of addiction and avoids the unpleasant side effects associated with long-term opioid use. Chiropractic treatment empowers patients to take a proactive, holistic approach to their health, fostering long-term recovery and an improved quality of life.

If you’re dealing with back or neck pain and seeking an effective, science-backed alternative to opioids, chiropractic care offers a safe and trusted solution. With a focus on addressing the root cause of pain, this approach allows you to regain control over your health and well-being.

Explore chiropractic care options at OrthoIllinois Chiropractic and begin your journey toward pain relief without the risks of opioids.

Listen to this PODCAST with Dr. Kim Lombardy on The Back Doctors Podcast with Dr. Michael Johnson about how using The Cox® Technic System of Spinal Pain Management is beneficial in easing patient use of opioids to control their back pain.

McHenry chiropractic exercise for back pain relief 

TIP OF THE MONTH: Try Sit-To-Stand Combo Exercise to Help Your Spine!

Simple exercise is often best! Pairing sit-to-stand exercises with blood flow restriction (BFR) could be a game-changer for those struggling with low back pain. A 2024 study by Lee KH and Chon SC shows that this powerful duo not only eases pain but also enhances muscle growth for individuals with back instability. (3) Sit-to-stand movements are simple, functional exercises that improve strength and mobility, while BFR increases circulation and targets muscular adaptation without placing undue stress on your spine. Together, they present a safe and effective approach for tackling low back pain, helping patients regain strength and stability in their daily activities.

Bring your spine and all its issues to us. We’re ready to help. We look forward to seeing you!

Schedule your McHenry chiropractic appointment today!

"This information and website content is not intended to diagnose, guarantee results, or recommend specific treatment or activity. It is designed to educate and inform only. Please consult your physician for a thorough examination leading to a diagnosis and well-planned treatment strategy. See more details on the DISCLAIMER page. Content is reviewed by Dr. James M. Cox I."