Chiropractic: The Natural Approach to Back Pain

Chiropractic is based on the principle of helping your body to heal naturally through spinal adjustments and lifestyle changes that stimulate overall health. For Dr. Zapf, this involves working hard to restore your body's normal performance to prevent the need for drugs or surgical treatments. We notice that many of our Burke patients are relieved to find a natural solution for their health problems.

One advantage of chiropractic care is that it helps people reduce or eliminate the use of drug treatments. Prescription medications are oftentimes supplied to people who have back problems. This is such a significant crisis that the American Academy of Neurology (AAN) issued a report stating that opioid (painkiller) risks overshadow the advantages when prescribed for back pain.

Some of the most popular opiates, according to the National Institute on Drug Abuse, include hydrocodone (Vicodin), oxycodone (OxyContin and Percocet), morphine, and codeine. Statistics provided by the AAN mention the fact that about half of the patients taking these types of substances for a period of three months are still dependent on them five years down the road. This can further complicate the problem of back pain and recovery, especially if an narcotic addiction occurs.

Contrast that to chiropractic care which features natural healing and the benefits are clear. While a pill might be helpful at temporarily reducing the symptoms of a health issue, it's not a long-term solution to the problem. Drugs don't fix your injured spine; it will only cover up the pain.

Dr. Zapf will first examine you to get to the source of your back problems and then work with you to address the spinal interference -- without any risky drugs.

If you're ready for pain relief, naturally, give our Burke office a call at (703) 455-9555 to make an appointment with Dr. Zapf.

References

• Risk of opioids outweigh benefits for headache, low back pain, other conditions. American Academy of Neurology;September 29, 2014.
• What are opioids? National Institute on Drug Abuse. Retrieved from http://www.drugabuse.gov/publications/research-reports/prescription-drugs/opioids/what-are-opioids