Background:
A study demonstrated not only that chiropractic is less expensive for treatment of serious low back problems but also had very interesting reasons for its cost-effectiveness.
Who Conducted the Study?
The study was reported in the Journal of the American College of Occupational and Environmental Medicine.
How Was the Study Conducted?
The study looked at employees of a large manufacturing company; they were mostly male, in their late 40s and at above-average income levels. Costs were compared between chiropractors and physical therapists. Patients had low back pain with neurological symptoms – primarily this meant pain, numbness or weakness in one or both legs.
What did the Study Reveal?
Total costs were approximately$7,000 for patients treated by chiropractors vs. $17,000 for those treated by physical therapists per patient.
What is the Take Home Message?
The very interesting aspect of this study is the reason behind the much higher costs of physical therapy care. Chiropractors are much less likely to recommend additional health care services for their patients. the main reason for the increased costs involved surgeries. Physical therapists were more likely to recommend surgeries. With such procedures often exceeding $100,000, it can easily be seen how costs can skyrocket. Chiropractic care can not only decrease costs, but it is likely to help you avoid surgery as well.
Yours for better health,
Jon Mills, DC