PCA Deep Dive: The Impact of Chiropractic Care on Opioid Use in Older Adults

PCA Deep Dive: The Impact of Chiropractic Care on Opioid Use in Older AdultsIn this episode of The Spinal Chat Podcast, powered by the Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association, the hosts discuss a landmark 2022 study published in Chiropractic & Manual Therapies. The study examines the association between chiropractic care and the use of prescription opioids among older Medicare beneficiaries with spinal pain. The episode covers the study's methodology, key findings, and broader implications, highlighting that early chiropractic care can significantly reduce the likelihood of opioid prescriptions. The discussion highlights the importance of non-pharmacological treatments as safer alternatives, particularly for older adults, and advocates for the greater implementation of evidence-based chiropractic practices.00:00 Introduction to The Spinal Chat Podcast00:43 Understanding the Opioid Crisis in Older Adults01:16 The Landmark Study: Chiropractic Care vs. Opioid Use04:48 Study Methodology and Data Analysis07:24 Key Findings: Impact of Chiropractic Care08:50 Timing Matters: Early vs. Delayed Chiropractic Care10:20 Broader Implications and Economic Benefits12:07 Study Limitations and Researcher Confidence13:59 Final Thoughts and Takeaways15:40 Closing Remarks and Call to ActionStudy Title: Association between chiropractic care and use of prescription opioids among older Medicare beneficiaries with spinal pain: a retrospective observational studyAuthors: Whedon JM, Uptmor S, Toler AWJ, Bezdjian S, MacKenzie TA, Kazal LAJournal: Chiropractic & Manual Therapies (2022) 30:5DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/s12998-022-00415-7PCA Webste: https://pennchiro.org/Contact the PCA: [email protected] Pennsylvania Chiropractic Association did not generate this data. PCA Deep Dive reviews and discusses independent, peer-reviewed research to help translate long-term outcomes and clinical implications for patients, clinicians, policymakers, and healthcare decision makers.