Postponing Treatment for Lower Back Pain Leads to an Increased Incidence in Chronic Lower Back Pain and Incomplete Recovery

A 2011 study by Lena Nordeman at the Swedish University of Gothenburg found that patients who waited four weeks to get physiotherapy treatment for their lower back pain had poorer outcomes compared to patients who were seen within 48 hours.  The study looked at 60 patients with lower back pain and patients with lower back and leg pain.  The patients in this study had pain in the low back area for three to twelve weeks. 

In the study, patients suffering from back pain were either put on a wait list for a month, then received physiotherapy; or were treated within two days by a physiotherapist.  Six months after they were discharged from physiotherapy, the level of perceived pain was significantly higher in the group that had been on the wait list.  The complete study can be found here: http://gupea.ub.gu.se/bitstream/2077/24585/1/gupea_2077_24585_1.pdf. This study correlates well with our experience at Perry Hall Chiropractic and Physical Therapy for almost all musculoskeletal complaints, not just back pain. 

Perry Hall Chiropractic and Physical Thereapy has successfully treated patients who have had pain for decades, providing significant relief for their pains

When patients come in to our Perry Hall office within days of the onset of pain rather than waiting weeks hoping that “maybe it will go away” their treatment takes less time offering better results in less time.  

Seeking professional help weeks after the onset of pain is generally better than months, and months are better than years, and years are better than decades… but seeking help immediately is best.  However, our Perry Hall office has successfully treated patients who have had pain for decades, providing significant relief.

Sometimes patients are told by their primary care provider, physical therapist or Doctor of Chiropractic to wait and see if the pain will go away with time.  If you've been waiting on pain to go away it is time to give us a call. We will be happy to answer any questions you have. If we can help we'd be happy to see you. If we think your time would be better spent seeing a different kind of professional, we'll tell you that also.