Chiropractic Rated Tops

A survey of 14,000 Consumer Reports subscribers, reported in the publication’s May 2009 issue, found that “hands-on” therapies, led by chiropractic care, were the top-rated treatments for people suffering from back pain. The survey also found that chiropractors were given the highest “satisfaction with care” ratings. Of types of treatment rated by respondents, chiropractic treatment scored a 58% rating, followed by spinal injections (51%), massage (48%) and physical therapy (46%). Other highly rated treatments were prescription medications, yoga, movement therapy and acupuncture.

In a sidebar article, Dr. Orly Avitzur, a board-certified neurologist stated that given the high incidence of adverse effects caused by prescription drugs (specifically opioids, such as Vicodin), she prefers to prescribe “hands-on” therapies.

Dr. Pamela Wells is a Chiropractor based in Sunnyvale California.