Spinal Manipulation Recognized as Key Non-Pharmacological Treatment for Low Back Pain, Lancet Rheumatology Review Finds
A June 2026 review published in The Lancet Rheumatology analyzed clinical practice guidelines from multiple countries and identified spinal manipulation as a primary non-pharmacological approach for managing low back pain. The study found that guidelines consistently endorse spinal manipulative therapy as a first-line conservative treatment option, alongside exercise therapy and patient education.
New Evidence and Research Directions
The review highlighted emerging evidence supporting the use of spinal manipulation for conditions such as cervical radiculopathy and headaches. It also discussed research into the neurological effects of spinal manipulation, including neuroimaging studies that observed changes in pain processing mechanisms.
Shift Toward Conservative Care
The authors noted a growing emphasis on conservative, non-drug interventions as initial treatment strategies, citing concerns about opioid overuse in chronic pain management. They emphasized that guidelines increasingly prioritize non-invasive approaches before considering more aggressive treatments.
Citation
The Lancet Rheumatology, June 2026 review. Source URL: https://link.springer.com/journal/12998/articles