Low back pain and sciatica are among the most common reasons for seeking healthcare. Unfortunately, they still too often lead to opioid prescriptions, increasing the risk of addiction and serious, sometimes fatal, adverse events. However, two recent studies highlight the protective role of spinal manipulation, often performed by chiropractors, in preventing these risks.
Lower risk of opioid addiction with chiropractic care
A study published in 2025 analyzed the records of more than 49,000 adults experiencing their first episode of low back pain. The researchers compared two groups: patients receiving spinal manipulation and those treated with ibuprofen (e.g., Advil). The results showed that patients who received chiropractic care had an 80% lower risk of developing opioid use disorder (OUD) over a two-year period. In addition, these patients were significantly less likely to obtain a prescription for opioids or to use them for an extended period of time (source).
These data reinforce current clinical recommendations that favor non-pharmacological approaches, such as chiropractic care as a first-line treatment for low back pain.
Fewer serious adverse events related to opioids in patients with sciatica
A second recent study looked at more than 744,000 patients newly diagnosed with sciatica. The researchers showed that those who received spinal manipulation were 71% less likely to experience an adverse opioid-related event (overdose, intoxication, or death) compared to patients receiving usual medical care. In addition, these patients were 32% less likely to be prescribed opioids during the first year (source).
This research is the first to demonstrate a specific protective effect against adverse events associated with opioids, reinforcing the importance of conservative care provided by chiropractors in the safe management of sciatica.
Why choose chiropractic care?
By incorporating chiropractic care into your treatment plan, you not only benefit from an effective non-pharmacological approach to pain management, but you also potentially reduce some of the significant risks associated with medication abuse or dependence. These results are consistent with the recommendations of organizations such as the WHO, which encourage non-pharmacological approaches such as spinal manipulation for the management of lower back pain.
Take care of your back today
At ABC Health Clinic, our chiropractors will help you relieve your lower back pain or sciatica with safe, personalized, and long-lasting solutions. See the right professional at the right time: make an appointment now and take back control of your health.
Book your consultation online today.
Visit the clinic nearest you:
- Chiropractic – Chelsea Gatineau (secteur Hull)
- Chiropractic – Vaudreuil-Dorion
- Chiropractic – Mirabel
- Chiropractic – Valleyfield
- Chiropractic – Québec (Duberger-Les-Saules)
- Chiropractic – Boucherville
- Chiropractic – Trois-Rivières
References
- Trager RJ, Cupler ZA, Gliedt JA, Fischer R, Srinivasan R, Thorfinnson H. Association between spinal manipulative therapy for low back pain with or without sciatica and opioid use disorder: protocol for a retrospective cohort study. Published Online First: 12 February 2025.
- Trager RJ, Cupler ZA, Srinivasan R, Harper EG, Perez JA. Association between chiropractic spinal manipulation for sciatica and opioid-related adverse events: A retrospective cohort study. PLOS ONE. 2025; 20:e0317663. doi:10.1371/journal.pone.0317663
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Dr Charles Bélanger
Chiropractor and owner
