Crooked

Outwitting the Back Pain Industry and Getting on the Road to Recovery

By: Cathryn Jakobson Ramin

Narrated by: Cathryn Jakobson Ramin

The acclaimed author of Carved in Sand—a veteran investigative journalist who endured persistent back pain for decades—delivers the definitive book on the subject: an essential examination of all facets of the back pain industry, exploring what works, what doesn't, what may cause harm, and how to get on the road to recovery.

In her effort to manage her chronic back pain, investigative reporter Cathryn Jakobson Ramin spent years and a small fortune on a panoply of treatments. But her discomfort only intensified, leaving her feeling frustrated and perplexed. As she searched for better solutions, she exposed a much bigger problem. Costing roughly $100 billion a year, spine medicine—often ineffective and sometimes harmful —exemplified the worst aspects of the U.S. health care system.

The result of six years of intensive investigation, Crooked offers a startling look at the poorly identified risks of spine medicine, and provides practical advice and solutions. Ramin interviewed scores of spine surgeons, pain management doctors, physical medicine and rehabilitation physicians, exercise physiologists, physical therapists, chiropractors, specialized bodywork practitioners. She met with many patients whose pain and desperation led them to make life-altering decisions, and with others who triumphed over their limitations.

The result is a brilliant and comprehensive book that is not only important but essential to millions of back pain sufferers, and all types of health care professionals. Ramin shatters assumptions about surgery, chiropractic methods, physical therapy, spinal injections and painkillers, and addresses evidence-based rehabilitation options—showing, in detail, how to avoid therapeutic dead ends, while saving money, time, and considerable anguish. With Crooked, she reveals what it takes to outwit the back pain industry and get on the road to recovery.

Journalistic approach to back pain

Loved all the information about the back pain Industry. So many stories and examples of treatment. I'm definitely more motivated to take care of my back now. Thank you!

Must Read for Anyone

You either have back pain or know someone with it. This is an excellent resource that exposes the issues with the back pain industry and provides alternatives methodologies. If you have been told you need surgery; wait! Read this first, then decide!

Fabulous and important book

I'm in the middle of a long saga dealing with sacroiliac pain and was just about to do a nerve ablation. This book has changed my approach. I've "failed" at physical therapy and chiropractic in the past, but they all felt too lightweight in terms of training. Upon recommendation from my pain doctor I found a serious and skilled, highly qualified physical therapist trainer who is going to work with me – if I can get my insurance to cover it.

Cathryn's book is a must-read for anyone dealing with joint problems anywhere in the body -- not just the back. I listened to this book on audio and now I am going to get the print copy so I can easily look back at the information. If you have any joint issues, run – at least hobble – or go online - or send a friend – to get this book!

Helpful

I am grateful for this book. I am in pain. But now I feel I have resources and an approach to move forward and toward recovery.

Thank you for all your research.

Deborah

Confirmation

The book has a lot of good information on what’s wrong with the back industry. At times you feel there’s no hope if you have severe back issues. However, in the last few chapters it confirms what I myself have found out, that with the correct exercises, you may be able to avoid pain meds and more importantly surgery.