Ep 3. Oh, My Aching Back (aka Archie's Aching Back)

Set in New York City in the 1970s, All in the Family follows the life of Archie Bunker, a bigoted and opinionated blue-collar worker, his wife Edith, his daughter Gloria, and her liberal husband Mike.

In season 1 episode 3, titled "Oh, My Aching Back," Archie suffers from a painful backache and is convinced that it is from dealing with the stress of his daily life and the pressures of providing for his family. As a result, he visits a chiropractor for help much to the dismay of his skeptical wife and son-in-law.

Meanwhile, Gloria and Mike have a disagreement over modern art and whether it has any value. Gloria argues that it is a legitimate form of expression, while Mike asserts that contemporary art is pretentious and lacking in substance. Their argument eventually spills over into the discussion of Archie's back problems, revealing their differing beliefs on alternative medicine and medical practices.

As the episode progresses, Archie's condition worsens, and he becomes increasingly frustrated and irritable. He struggles to accept the idea that his pain may not have a simple solution and that he may need to adopt a more holistic approach to his health. The tension between Archie, Gloria, and Mike builds as they each try to convince him of their own viewpoints.

In the end, Archie realizes that his back pain is not just physical but also mental and emotional. He learns that he needs to take care of his body and mind and not just focus on his work or his prejudices. The episode serves as a reminder that healthcare is not always as straightforward as we might want it to be and that sometimes we need to explore alternative approaches to wellness.

All in the Family was a groundbreaking show that addressed a range of social issues, including racism, sexism, and homophobia. Season 1 episode 3 is just one example of the show's ability to tackle difficult subjects in a thoughtful and humorous way. The performances by the cast are excellent throughout, with Carroll O'Connor's portrayal of Archie particularly noteworthy. The episode's conclusion is both heartwarming and insightful, leaving viewers with a memorable and thought-provoking take on healthcare and the importance of holistic wellness.