In 2012, a national health study was created in order to answer the important question of why individuals see chiropractors. The aim of the study was to “investigate the prevalence, patterns, and predictors of chiropractic utilization in the US general population.” In order to conduct the survey, cross-sectional data was analyzed to examine the lifetime and the utilization patterns of chiropractic use. Some results include:
- There is a growing trend of chiropractic use among US adults from 2002 to 2012. Back pain (63.0%) and neck pain (30.2%) were the most prevalent health problems for chiropractic consultations and the majority of users reported chiropractic helping a great deal with their health problem and improving overall health or well-being.
- A substantial number of chiropractic users had received prescription (23.0%) and/or over-the-counter medications (35.0%) for the same health problem for which chiropractic was sought and 63.8% reported chiropractic care combined with medical treatment as helpful.
- Both adults older than 30 years (compared to younger adults), and those diagnosed with spinal pain (compared to those without spinal pain) were more likely to have consulted a chiropractor in the past 12 months.
The conclusion of the study stated that a number of US adults utilized chiropractic services during the past 12 months and reported associated positive outcomes. Some specific reasons why individuals seek chiropractic care includes:
- It treats the cause, not the symptoms
- Therapy combined with medical treatment
- It’s natural; focuses on the whole person: mind, body, and spirit
- Medication side effects
- Medical treatments aren’t working
Are you ready to try chiropractic care? Set up your free consultation with Dr. Jean today.
