Jeff LangmaidFounder, The Evidence Based Chiropractor

Faster Recovery… But More Opioids⁉️

11 Jul 2026 · 1 min

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In this segment Jeff Langmaid introduces a recent clinical study that investigates whether manipulation of the psoas muscle and lumbar plexus during spine surgery leads to higher postoperative pain scores or increased opioid consumption. He clarifies that the comparison is between surgical approaches that include such manipulation versus those that do not, not a comparison to chiropractic care. Langmaid frames the question within the modern emphasis on Enhanced Recovery After Surgery (ERAS) protocols, which aim for better pain control, earlier mobilization, shorter hospital stays, and reduced opioid exposure. He highlights the practical importance of understanding any trade‑off between faster discharge and potential higher opioid use during the hospital stay.

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So the study authors wanted to answer a specific question. That question is, does psoas and lumbar plexus manipulation actually translate into higher pain scores or higher opioid use after surgery? I say manipulation, I mean relative to the surgery, not relative to the chiropractic care. So it's a very practical question, 'cause in modern spine surgery, there's a really big emphasis on enhanced recovery after surgery. Uh, protocols focus on better pain control, earlier movement, shorter hospital stays, and reduced opioid exposure. So if there's an approach that helps get patients out of the hospital faster but require more opioids while they're there, it's worth knowing for all of us.