Low back pain is a common issue faced by many people in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. With so many treatment options available, including medical and chiropractic care, patients often wonder which is more cost-effective. Whether you're dealing with acute or chronic low back pain, this blog will compare the costs and benefits of medical versus chiropractic treatments, with insights from Dr. Lucas Marchand, a mobile chiropractor serving Sioux Falls.
What is the Difference Between Acute and Chronic Low Back Pain?
Before exploring the cost-effectiveness of medical and chiropractic care, it's essential to understand the difference between acute and chronic low back pain.
Acute Low Back Pain
Acute low back pain is typically short-term, lasting less than six weeks. It is often the result of a sudden injury, strain, or trauma.
Chronic Low Back Pain
Chronic low back pain persists for more than 12 weeks and can result from untreated acute pain or ongoing musculoskeletal issues. Chronic pain is more complex and often requires more long-term treatment.
The Cost of Medical Care for Low Back Pain in Sioux Falls
Medical care for low back pain generally involves medication, physical therapy, and sometimes surgical intervention. Let's break down the common approaches:
Medication for Low Back Pain
Medication is often the first line of treatment for low back pain, whether over-the-counter or prescription drugs. However, these can come with both short-term costs and potential long-term side effects, particularly for chronic conditions.
Cost Range: $10–$100+ per month
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy is a recommended treatment for both acute and chronic low back pain, aimed at strengthening the muscles and improving flexibility.
Cost Range: $75–$150 per session
Surgical Intervention
Surgery is generally reserved for severe chronic low back pain. While effective in some cases, surgery is expensive and comes with risks.
Cost Range: $20,000–$90,000+
Diagnostics and Imaging
Doctors often recommend diagnostic tests like MRI scans or X-rays to identify the underlying cause of back pain.
Cost Range: $500–$3,000+ per scan
The Cost of Chiropractic Care for Low Back Pain with Dr. Lucas Marchand
Chiropractic care is a non-invasive, holistic approach that addresses the root cause of pain. Here’s a breakdown of common chiropractic treatments for low back pain.
Spinal Adjustments by Dr. Lucas Marchand
Spinal adjustments are a core component of chiropractic care and can help reduce pain and improve mobility.
Cost Range: $50–$150 per session
Manual Therapy and Rehabilitation Exercises
In addition to adjustments, Dr. Lucas Marchand may offer manual therapy or rehabilitative exercises to complement the healing process.
Cost Range: Included with adjustment or $30–$50 per session
Long-Term Chiropractic Care Plans
For chronic low back pain, long-term care plans can be both effective and affordable. Investing in preventive care can help avoid more expensive treatments down the road.
Cost Range: $300–$1,500 for multi-session plans
Medical vs. Chiropractic Care: What’s More Cost-Effective in Sioux Falls?
Now, let’s compare the cost-effectiveness of medical and chiropractic care for low back pain in Sioux Falls.
Cost-Effectiveness for Acute Low Back Pain
For acute cases, both medical and chiropractic care can be effective. However, chiropractic care from Dr. Lucas Marchand often results in quicker pain relief with fewer sessions, making it a more cost-effective solution.
Cost-Effectiveness for Chronic Low Back Pain
Chronic low back pain requires ongoing treatment, which makes cost a major factor. Chiropractic care is often more cost-effective than long-term use of medications or surgical interventions. Additionally, research shows that chiropractic care may help reduce the need for surgery or prescription opioids.
A study published in Spine found that chiropractic care led to lower healthcare costs and reduced opioid use compared to medical care. Another study from the Journal of Manipulative and Physiological Therapeutics reported that chiropractic patients experienced less disability and missed fewer workdays.
Conclusion: Chiropractic Care in Sioux Falls is a Cost-Effective Solution for Low Back Pain
When considering the cost and long-term effectiveness, chiropractic care often proves to be more affordable for both acute and chronic low back pain. By addressing the root cause of pain through spinal adjustments and rehabilitative care, Dr. Lucas Marchand of MyChiro, LLC provides a holistic, non-invasive treatment option that is both effective and cost-efficient.
If you're dealing with low back pain in Sioux Falls, schedule a house call with Dr. Lucas Marchand today to experience premium, personalized chiropractic care at your convenience.
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