Dr. Cody Rodewald DC, founder of ALIGN Integrated Health in Lakeville, has published research in the Journal of Contemporary Chiropractic documenting the successful non-surgical management of a massive lumbar disc extrusion. The study titled "Non-surgical Chiropractic Management of a Massive Lumbar Disc Extrusion" demonstrates how comprehensive chiropractic care resulted in the natural resorption of a significant lumbar disc herniation without surgical intervention. Lumbar disc herniation affects thousands of individuals annually and represents a major contributor to pain and disability, costing health systems hundreds of millions of dollars each year.
This research provides compelling evidence that chiropractic care presents a viable option for managing severe disc herniations when severe neurological deficits or cauda equina syndrome are not present. The findings reinforce the growing body of evidence supporting conservative care approaches before considering surgical options. Dr. Rodewald emphasized the importance of this research, stating that such successful outcomes occur more frequently than commonly recognized. "This is one of only two studies that show on MRI a disc injury healing with only chiropractic care, but it happens more than one might think," he noted.
The study serves to enhance the credibility of non-surgical interventions and may inspire further research in the field to better serve individuals suffering from disc-related issues. The research conducted at ALIGN Integrated Health demonstrates that without the presence of severe neurological complications, chiropractic care can serve as an effective alternative to more invasive surgical treatments. This patient-centered approach aligns with the growing movement toward natural and holistic treatment options that prioritize patient health and well-being while potentially reducing healthcare costs associated with surgical interventions. The implications extend beyond individual patient care to broader healthcare economics, as documented in the Journal of Contemporary Chiropractic at https://www.journalofcontemporarychiropractic.com.
