Back experts only of 'marginal benefit'

CHIROPRACTIC, one of the best established alternative treatments for back pain, is of marginal benefit and it is probably not worth the cost, according to a new study.

Patients with low back pain who were treated by a chiropractor for one month were little better off two years later than patients given a $1 (58p) booklet which explained the causes of back pain, and suggested activities for relieving it.

Chiropractic involves manipulation of the spine . There are about 1,200 chiropractors in Britain, who charge an average of pounds 20 to pounds 30 a session.

The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, was conducted by researchers at the University of Seattle, who say: "Although chiropractic manipulation may slightly reduce symptoms, its main benefit for patients with low back pain appears to be increased satisfaction with care."