Sports Injury Treatment & Prevention: Considering Spinal Surgery?

Considering Spinal Surgery? University of Pittsburgh Medical Center Recommends Chiropractic Care First

Most people are looking for the quickest fix, but often times find themselves in worse shape after back surgery. University of Pittsburgh Medical Center is slowing the process down and including more conservative care before having patients go under the knife.

UPMC has changed the game

In order to increase success and minimize costs in the treatment of chronic low back pain, the UPMC Health Plan now includes a set of revolutionary guidelines for managing back pain.

As of January 1, 2012, UPMC is pioneering a far-reaching initiative focused on the treatment of chronic back pain. While surgical emergencies would still be addressed immediately, all other lower back surgeries would require prior authorization and conservative care to determine if back surgery was medically necessary. Quoting their policy:

“To be considered for surgery, patients with chronic low back pain must have:

▪    Tried and failed a 3-month course of conservative management, which includes physical therapy, chiropractic therapy and medication.

▪    Completed UPMC Health Plan’s Low Back Pain Health Coaching Program.

This policy was developed using evidence-based literature and professional society guidelines, as well as the input of external medical professionals with expertise in the area.”

Chiropractic care reduces loss time at work, reduces medical costs, and prevents further injury in the future.

This is the future of spinal care, and UPMC is taking key steps to get the best results for patients.

For more information call SportCo Rehabilitation Oswego at 630.554.9991 or SportCo Rehabilitation Naperville at 630.922.6500