February 12, 2008 Cost, benefits of treating back and neck pain Play video

(NECN/ABC) - Back and neck pain are ubiquitous among adult Americans.

Lower-back pain alone accounts for 2% of adult doctor visits, outstripping all other conditions except high blood pressure and diabetes.

A new study from researchers at the University of Washington finds that Americans are spending more money than ever to treat their back and neck pain.

The cost of treating spine pain averaged $4,700 in 1997, but increased to $6,100 by 2005 - a 65% bump.

Patients are now spending more on drugs, including muscle relaxants, narcotics like Oxycodone and painkillers such as Celebrex.

But doctors discovered that the added costs aren't helping patients to feel better.

Results of a national health survey showed people with spine problems reported more disability and a lower quality of life in 2005 than they had in 1997.

Researchers say that the findings mean we may be over-treating back and neck pain and that patients should be aware that the latest treatments aren't guaranteed to provide most relief.

ABC's Dr. Timothy Johnson has the details.