These days, when you're dealing with back pain, you really have your choice of treatment plans. You could see your medical doctor and pursue surgery or injections. You could visit an acupuncturist for some Eastern medical care. Or, you could do what most people do and visit the chiropractor. There is a reason chiropractors tend to be the go-to medical practitioners for back pain — and the reason is not just that they advertise well! Back pain chiropractic treatment has plenty of advantages over other approaches to back pain management.

1. There are no major side effects to worry about.

There are a number of medications and injections that can be used to treat back pain. Some patients get injections of cortisone, a steroid, into the tissues near their spine. Or a doctor could prescribe you opiate pain relievers or muscle relaxers. Sometimes these treatments are helpful, but other times, they cause unwanted side effects. Opiates, for example, are addictive. Cortisone shots can cause nerve damage and the weakening of tissues. Chiropractic care, however, does not cause any worrisome side effects. Some patients are a little sore or stiff after a session, but this wears off within a day or two. It's nice to walk into the chiropractor's office and be confident the treatment you receive isn't going to cause any unforeseen issues.

2. Chiropractic treatment gets at the heart of the problem.

Many back pain treatments are aimed at managing the pain itself, which is really only a symptom of the problem. The real problem may be that your spine is misaligned or that one of your intervertebral discs is herniated. A chiropractor will directly address this problem, which will, in turn, ease your back pain. This tends to yield more permanent, long-lasting results. It can also help prevent future problems, like headaches and neck pain, from developing due to the underlying issues that are causing your back pain.

3. Chiropractors work closely with you as the patient.

While there are some medical doctors who take a more personalized approach to care, many are under pressure to see a certain number of patients per hour, and as such, they are forced to rush. Their patients sometimes feel that the doctor sees them just as a number or a set of symptoms. Chiropractors, on the other hand, tend to really take their time and get to know their patients. They take a whole-body, collaborative approach to care, and they really have to take this approach since making lifestyle recommendations is a part of their treatment. When you see a chiropractor for back pain, you can expect to feel listened to and acknowledged.

Chiropractic care is a very popular choice for back pain, and for good reason. It doesn't cause serious side effects, gets to the heart of the issue, and has a personalized feel.