Almost eight in 10 Americans have an episode of lower back pain at some point in their lives. Chronic back pain can result in lowered productivity, which can adversely affect your earning potential — not to mention your quality of life. Often, pain-killing opioids are prescribed as a quick-fix solution. Excessive use of opioids can be detrimental to your health. National Chiropractic Month, observed every October, emphasizes alternative methods of treatment, which yield better results.
National Chiropractic Month timeline
Chiropractic care received official recognition with the first state license law. In the span of 25 years, 39 states in the US officially recognized chiropractic care as a legitimate healthcare option.
D.D. Palmer established the Palmer School of Care in Davenport, Iowa, which is, today, known as Palmer College of Chiropractic.
D.D. Palmer performed the first chiropractic adjustment on a janitor, who had lost his hearing after experiencing back pain. Afterwards, the janitor reported an improvement in his hearing.
How to Observe National Chiropractic Month
Support Medicare Equality
The American Chiropractic Association (ACA) advocates federal legislation that would allow patients to receive Medicare reimbursements.
Educate yourself
No matter what kind of treatment you get, it is always important to make an informed decision. Read up on the benefits and drawbacks of painkillers as well as joint manipulation.
Schedule an appointment with a chiropractor
Chiropractic care can help prevent injuries and chronic musculoskeletal conditions. Use National Chiropractic Month as an opportunity to make an appointment.
5 Tips For A Pain-Free Back
Work on Your Posterior Core
Your core comprises both abdominal and back muscles. Generally, most people have stronger abdominal muscles. Spend more time on the muscles in your back when you are at the gym.
Practice Endurance Over Strength
Focus on getting more repetitions out of your back exercises than increasing the weight your are lifting. The "plank," an isometric core exercise, is a great way to strengthen the muscles in your back.
Try the "Hip Hinge" Instead
When you're bending down to lift something, make it a point to do the "hip hinge" while keeping your back straight. When you avoid bending your back, you will avoid most back injuries.
Wear Better Shoes
Shoes help your body and spine stay aligned. They should fit nicely around your heel without being too tight, to avoid a bad walking or standing posture.
Get Up From Your Desk Regularly
Your lower spine is three times more stressed when you are sitting, compared to standing. Long periods of continued sitting can lead to chronic back conditions. Take a break from work every 30 minutes or so. Even a quick walk is enough.
Why National Chiropractic Month is Important
It can actually benefit the U.S. economy
Episodes of lower back pain can result in a $100 billion drain on the economy each year. Most of these costs are associated with lowered productivity and lost wages. National Chiropractic Month can help people get back on their feet faster.
Non-narcotic help
The misuse of over-the-counter painkillers is a major problem in this country. Moreover, opioids are less effective than spinal manipulation in providing long-term relief from back pain.
It gives chiropractors their due
Several studies in recent years have pointed to the benefits of chiropractic care, including its preventative benefits.
National Chiropractic Month dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | October 1 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | October 1 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | October 1 | Thursday |
| 2027 | October 1 | Friday |
| 2028 | October 1 | Sunday |
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