Today I came upon a post by Dr. Graeme Gibson, Seattle Chiropractor that discusses an article he read on yahoo about orthopedic doctors receiving kickbacks for surgical procedures. I took interest to this because this is not surprising at all, as medical doctors and pharmaceutical companies have been known for years for this kickback disgrace.
Many medications and now surgeries that people are receiving are unnecessary and put patients at risk. Unfortunately most patients trust their doctors that what is being prescribed is in their best interest. But when one knows the statistics of back surgeries having less than a 50% success rate and a high risk or paralysis, why are these procedures being done before conservative care in many instances?
Most outcomes of surgery, even if get pain relief, the patient is then extremely limited in their daily activities. In most instances a surgery is considered a success if it provides pain relief, which most of the time lasts only 1 to 5 years, and then further surgical procedures are required.
Yes, medications and surgery are needed at times, but not at the rate they are being recommended. It’s always important that a patient gets a second opinion, and if necessary a 3rd opinion before taking drastic measures such as surgery. I highly recommend that anybody that has back pain, have one of those opinions be from a chiropractor as chiropractors are one of the few who are highly qualified for spinal problems. Many times a short treatment plan of chiropractic care can determine if a patient can improve and avoid surgery. Chiropractic is known to have around an 85% success rate with back pain, without the side effects of drugs or surgery.
I also have firsthand experience with back surgery, as my mother was told 15 years ago she needed surgery for spinal stenosis and a herniated disc and nothing else would help. Fortunately for her, I was in chiropractic college and I said to please try going to a chiropractor. I referred her to somebody I knew in her town… and we prevented her surgery for around 12 years before “needing” the surgery. Chiropractic helped her maintain her normal daily activities without restriction. Fortunately, when time came, I found her a great orthopedic surgeon who has an amazing reputation.
In my 13 years in practice, I have helped patients in Freehold, Marlboro, Manalapan, Howell, Colts Neck, Jackson, and Morganville, NJ avoid unnecessary surgeries that orthopedic doctors said were the only answer. So before opting for surgery, give us a call to see if we can help you.
If you are looking for a great Seattle Chiropractic office in Washington, look up Dr. Graeme Gibson, DC
Queen Anne Chiropractic Center
1905 Queen Anne Avenue North
Seattle, WA 98109
(206) 282-8275