Chiropractic Helped Low Back Pain and Increased Lung Function

The first-quarter issue of the Asian Pacific Chiropractic Journal published on January 1, 2025, documented the improvement of both chronic lower back pain and lung function in a patient undergoing chiropractic care. This study begins by noting just how prevalent lower back pain is. "Chronic lower back pain (CLBP) is a pervasive condition that affects a significant portion of the global population, with studies estimating that up to 80% of adults experience lower back pain at some point in their lives."

The authors of this study also point out that there is a direct correlation between lower back pain and poor posture. Poor posture can be both the result of long-term back pain, as well as a contributing factor causing back pain. They also note that abnormal spinal postures "can significantly impact the mechanics of breathing."

In this case, a 37-year-old man whose primary occupation involved working at a desk, went to the chiropractor to see if he could get help for his chronic lower back problem. The man stated that he had been suffering with lower back pain for the previous five years. He described the pain as dull and intermittent and would get significantly worse if he sat for prolonged periods of time.

A chiropractic examination was performed which showed spinal misalignments and postural irregularities. The postural issues prompted testing the patient's lung functions using spirometry. Spirometry is a pulmonary function test that measures lung function by assessing the amount and speed of air that can be inhaled and exhaled. The results of the spirometry test show deficiencies in the man's lung functions.

Specific forms of chiropractic care were started, and the man was seen twice weekly for 12 weeks. At that point, a re-evaluation was performed to check on the man's progress. At that time, he reported that he had not had any back pain for three weeks and was no longer having the pain he had for the previous five years. The evaluation also showed that his posture had significantly improved compared to when he first started chiropractic care.

A follow-up spirometry test was also performed. The results of his second spirometry showed considerable improvements in all parameters, indicating his breathing and lungs had returned to completely functioning normally.

In the discussion section of this case report, the authors stated, "The findings of this case study are consistent with existing literature that elucidates the positive effects of chiropractic care on both structural alignment and respiratory function."