The Puzzling Popularity of Back Surgery in Certain Regions

Did you know that the rate of back surgery can vary dramatically in different regions of the country. A study on Medicare patients found up to a fourfold difference. Unfortunately there is nothing scientific about these large differences in surgical rates. 

The Puzzling Popularity of Back Surgery in Certain Regions

Low Back Pain Advice from JAMA Network

This article from the a Journal of the American Medical Association website states than low back pain can often be helped with chiropractic care, exercise, physical therapy, and acupuncture. Also that surgery is usually not needed and should only be considered when other therapies have failed. 
Do you think this is good advice?
Low Back Pain Advice from JAMA Network

One-Third of U.S. Kids Have Back Pain, Study Says

Another study, this one presented at the recent American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons' annual meeting, showing a high incidence of back pain in kids. This study showed the back pain is most associated with age, weight, participation in sports, and using only one back pack strap instead of both straps.
Would you think addressing this issue early would be beneficial?

One-Third of U.S. Kids Have Back Pain, Study Says

University of Minnesota to lead $14M national NIH study of non-drug therapies to prevent chronic back pain

The University of Minnesota has been awarded the first phase of a $11.2 million grant from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) to study non-drug approaches to prevent chronic low back pain, which could lead to reduced opioid use.The study has brought together some of the most experienced researchers in the low back pain field representing medical, osteopathy, psychology, physical therapy and chiropractic professions.
Do you see this type of research being valuable to find alternatives to opioids and other drugs?University of Minnesota to lead $14M national NIH study of non-drug therapies to prevent chronic back pain

Insurer Coverage of Nonpharmacological Treatments for Low Back Pain—Time for a Change

A recent Gallup poll conducted found that 78% of US adults would prefer to use nonpharmacological treatment for back and neck pain before considering pharmaceutical options. This article in JAMANetwork by two chiropractic and physical therapy researchers argues for better insurance coverage for non-drug treatments.
Why do you think insurers have better coverage for surgeries, injections, and drugs than other safer alternatives?Insurer Coverage of Nonpharmacological Treatments for Low Back Pain—Time for a Change