Photo by julien Tromeur on Unsplash: https://unsplash.com/photos/a-person-with-a-light-in-their-head-Q4VHSPAdCKU
by Chuck Kobdish, D.C.
Why Opioids and Back Pain Are Linked
Low back pain is one of the most common reasons people visit a doctor. Too often, the next step is a prescription — sometimes even opioids. While these medications may offer short-term relief, they can also lead to long-term risks like dependence and opioid use disorder (OUD). That’s why national guidelines recommend non-drug care first.
What the Research Found
A 2025 study led by Dr. Robert Trager and his team at University Hospitals Connor Whole Health followed more than 49,000 adults with new cases of low back pain. They compared two groups:
- Patients receiving spinal manipulative therapy (SMT) from chiropractors
- Patients prescribed ibuprofen in an outpatient setting
The results were striking: those who received chiropractic adjustments were 80% less likely to develop opioid use disorder over two years compared to the ibuprofen group (0.24% vs. 1.51%).
Reference: Trager RJ, Cupler ZA, Gliedt JA, Fischer R, Srinivasan R, Thorfinnson H. Health Sci Rep. 2025;8(9):e71267. doi:10.1002/hsr2.71267. Read (Published September 19, 2025).
What This Means for You
Chiropractic care offers more than short-term relief — it provides a safe and effective option for managing pain without relying on prescriptions. By starting with spinal manipulative therapy, patients can find relief while lowering their risk of medication-related problems.
BackMenders’ Approach
At BackMenders, we’re proud to serve East Dallas, Lakewood, and White Rock with evidence-based chiropractic care. Our focus is on helping you recover from low back pain without unnecessary risks, using non-invasive treatments that support long-term health.
Takeaway
If you’re struggling with low back pain, the science is clear: start with chiropractic care. It’s safe, effective, and reduces the chances of needing medications down the line.
Ready to take the first step? Visit backmenders.com or call 469-232-6363 (MEND) to schedule your appointment today.
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