In our Portland office, it isn't uncommon for us to see people struggling with sciatica, and Dr. Helton has helped many of them improve with chiropractic therapy. What makes chiropractic adjustments so helpful to those who suffer with this condition? For starters, it lessens their time of recovery and a Norwegian medical study confirms it.
In the article, which took place in a Norwegian hospital's orthopedic department, researchers looked at 44 patients who presented with sudden low back pain that was identified as acute sciatica. The participants were all treated by a chiropractor, with the average follow-up being two years after treatment.
The researchers found that all but two patients returned to their jobs after receiving chiropractic care, which is a 95% success rate. Moreover, the average amount of time that the individuals spent off work "was reduced by two thirds as compared with that associated with conventional medical treatment."
Considering that the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that over 170,000 workdays were missed in 2013 due to employees dealing with back or spine-related issues, that is about 112,500 work days that could potentially be recovered each and every year solely by receiving chiropractic care. Not only could that increase productivity, but it would also reduce costs to businesses and employees from lost work.
If you live in Portland and you suffer from sciatica, Dr. Helton is here to help. Give us a call at (503) 771-1974 and we'll work with you to find the source of your sciatica and get you back on the road to health.
Orlin JR, Didriksen A. Results of chiropractic treatment of lumbopelvic fixation in 44 patients admitted to an orthopedic department. Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics 2007;30(2):135-139.