For National Chiropractic Health Month 2018 this October, the American Chiropractic Association (ACA) and its members will encourage the public to move more – to “Move 4 Life” -- to improve and maintain their musculoskeletal and overall health. As part of the campaign, chiropractors will provide information about musculoskeletal health and tips to stay active and prevent injury.

Movement is vitally important to overall health. Physical activity not only helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes and even some cancers, it also strengthens our bones and muscles. As we age, the health of our bones, muscles and joints -- also known as our musculoskeletal system -- is especially important in reducing the frequency and severity of back pain as well as preventing falls and other injuries that can lead to disability and limit our ability to engage in daily activities. For these reasons, it’s essential to move now, to move later, to move for life, and to stay healthy, strong, active and engaged.

Back pain remains one of the most prevalent and disabling conditions worldwide. It is one of the most common reasons that patients visit their doctors, and one of the most common conditions for which opioid pain medications are prescribed. Since the overuse and abuse of prescription opioid painkillers in the United States remains a top public health concern, it’s essential for health care consumers and providers to understand that spinal manipulation and other conservative approaches can get you moving by treating musculoskeletal conditions such as low back pain safely and effectively.