Research & Science
Chiropractic and the Opioid Epidemic
- opioids
- research
- conservative care
Research & Science
Chiropractic and the Opioid Epidemic
A look at how conservative care may reduce reliance on opioid prescriptions for musculoskeletal pain.
Several peer-reviewed studies have examined whether patients who begin care with a chiropractor are less likely to fill opioid prescriptions for common musculoskeletal complaints. The findings are consistent enough to be worth understanding.
In short
Chiropractic care is one of several non-pharmacologic options that clinical guidelines recommend trying before opioids for common musculoskeletal pain. Several studies report that patients who begin care with a chiropractor are less likely to fill an opioid prescription, though it works alongside medical care, not in place of it.
The opioid crisis in the United States has led major clinical guidelines to recommend non-pharmacologic care as a first-line approach for many musculoskeletal complaints. Chiropractic care is one of those options.
Research note
What the research shows
Multiple large observational studies of adults with new low-back pain have reported that patients who saw a chiropractor early in their care were less likely to fill an opioid prescription over the following months than those who did not.
Why the pattern may exist
Conservative care tends to address the mechanical drivers of pain — joint restriction, movement patterns, muscular guarding — that medication does not directly change. When those factors improve, the felt need for pain medication may decrease.
Myth
Chiropractic care replaces medical care.
Fact
It does not. Chiropractic works alongside medical care. Many patients benefit from a coordinated team that includes their primary care physician.
“First-line non-pharmacologic options are worth trying before escalating to medications with risks of dependence.”
Common questions
Frequently asked questions
Should I stop my medications and see a chiropractor instead?
Never adjust your medications on your own. Any change in prescribed medication belongs with your prescribing physician.
Is this approach right for every kind of pain?
Conservative care is generally most studied for common musculoskeletal complaints like low-back and neck pain. Certain conditions still require medical or surgical management.
References
Sources & further reading
- Corcoran KL et al. Association Between Chiropractic Use and Opioid Receipt. Pain Medicine.
- Whedon JM et al. Association Between Utilization of Chiropractic Services and Use of Prescription Opioids.
This article is general education, not personal medical advice. If your symptoms include any red-flag signs, seek prompt medical evaluation.
Have questions specific to your body?
A thorough consultation with Dr. Hunter is the fastest way to move from reading to a plan.
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For two decades, opioid prescriptions have shaped how Americans experience — and treat — musculoskeletal pain. A growing body of peer-reviewed research suggests that patients who begin care with a chiropractor are meaningfully less likely to fill an opioid prescription. This article walks through what the evidence does and does not say, in careful, patient-friendly language.
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