Back Pain – It Could Be Deadly

Those suffering from back problems, especially those getting on in age should be especially aware of underlying, serious health conditions. It’s important and potentially life saving to have yourself professionally evaluated by a licensed chiropractor or other qualified health professional when back pain arises. Proper evaluation is important not only to receive proper treatment for your back problems, but also, to rule out even more serious and sometimes life threatening conditions. In a recently published case report, researchers discuss a patient who presented to a doctor of chiropractic’s office presenting with the primary symptom of back pain. Upon chiropractic examination and radiographic studies, the patient was found to be suffering from the symptoms of an aortic aneurysm – not your standard, musculoskeletal cause of back pain. The patient was immediately referred for immediate medical intervention. Cases like this, while uncommon, do occur. Chiropractors are primary health care providers. This means when life-threatening conditions are present, chiropractors are highly skilled and trained at identifying these conditions and making the appropriate referral, when necessary.