Chronic or long-term back pain can be difficult for doctors to manage. However, non-surgical options for treating back pain include spinal manipulation, acupuncture, and lifestyle modifications.
Back pain is a common issue, with an estimated 80% of adults experiencing low back pain. The discomfort may appear unexpectedly due to a muscular strain induced by excessive lifting or an accident. Other illnesses that might cause back discomfort include arthritis, osteoporosis, and scoliosis.
According to Dr. Vikas Mehra, an orthopedist and spine pain doctor in Chandigarh, most people have nonsurgical options for treating spine pain.
However, surgery is not always required. Other therapy options for back pain include home remedies, alternative medicine, and lifestyle changes. Before deciding on surgery, a person may choose to consider these alternatives.
Back pain has many distinct origins and varying degrees of severity. There is no single treatment that works for everyone. This article examines the evidence for 10 non-surgical back pain treatments.
1. Spinal manipulation
Spinal manipulation, often known as chiropractic manipulation, uses one's hands to modify, massage, or stimulate the spine.
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) Trusted Source, several researchers have suggested that spinal manipulation may help with low back pain.
However, spinal manipulation is not suitable for everyone, particularly those with osteoporosis, arthritis, or spinal cord disorders.
These treatments should only be performed by a trained and licensed professional.
• licensed chiropractors
• Physical therapists
• Osteopathic doctors
• Some medical doctors
Serious adverse effects are uncommon when a competent specialist conducts spine manipulation. Minor adverse effects, such as pain in the area, normally diminish within 1-2 days.
2. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment. Acupuncture practitioners inject tiny needles into particular spots on the body. Acupuncture treats various conditions, from chronic diseases to chronic pain.
According to a survey of systematic reviews, acupuncture may help restore function and decrease discomfort in particular persons with chronic low back pain. A meta-analysis also discovered that acupuncture delivers pain alleviation that may last for a long period.
3. Weight loss
The back muscles, bones, and joints work hard to support the body as it moves, sits, and stands. Being overweight can cause back discomfort due to increased spinal pressure and strain on the back muscles. Obesity has been linked to high levels of low back pain and impairment in men, according to one study.
If weight contributes to a person's back discomfort, losing weight may help relieve part or all of it. If a person is overweight, they may want to work with their doctor to identify ways to decrease weight.
4. Anti-inflammatory diet
Studies have linked higher levels of inflammation to specific types of chronic pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen and naproxen are effective pain relievers. Inflammation has numerous causes. Following an anti-inflammatory diet is one strategy to help reduce inflammation in the body.
Evidence suggests that some diets, particularly sugary and processed foods, can aggravate inflammation. Certain foods, according to research, can help reduce inflammation in the body, including:
• vegetables
• fruits
• nuts
• fish
• whole grains
Similarly, studies show that processed foods and sugar can cause inflammation and aggravate pain. People suffering from back discomfort may benefit from eating healthy meals and avoiding processed foods, trans fats, and sugar.
5. Postural correction
Incorrect posture may be the source of back discomfort for some people. Therefore making efforts to rectify it may provide relief.
According to studies, poor posture contributes to low back discomfort in adolescents. In one study, researchers discovered that participants who underwent an 8-week exercise program that corrected posture experienced relief from back and shoulder pain.
People can buy wearable gadgets that gently pull their shoulders back, prompting them to adjust their posture. There are numerous sorts to pick from in internet stores. If a person's desk or computer does not have good ergonomics, they may need to improve their workstation.
6. Exercise
Although being active may be challenging for someone in pain, exercise is one of the best natural remedies for many forms of pain.
Endorphins are released during activity, according to studies. These natural brain chemicals reduce pain by attaching to opioid receptors in the brain. This provides a modest impact similar to opioid pain relievers.
7. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) involves a person applying sticky electrode patches to their back. Electrical impulses are sent to the electrodes when a person activates the battery-powered device, which might disrupt pain signals.
According to one study, a 15-minute TENS therapy alleviated low back discomfort significantly. A meta-analysis discovered that TENS provided "substantial pain reduction" for persons with chronic low back pain.
TENS devices can be purchased via a doctor or online.
8. Stress management approaches
Stress can cause a person's muscles to stiffen, which can induce back pain or aggravate existing back pain. Back pain is listed as a stress symptom by the American Institute of Stress. According to one study, Trusted Source, stress can alter the body's experience of pain.
People who are stressed out may want to attempt strategies such as social support, meditation, and exercise to help with relaxation and stress alleviation.
9. Proper footwear
The improper form of footwear can cause the legs, hips, and back to misalign. This misalignment can cause back pain. High heels, overly tight shoes, or shoes that provide little support are all potential causes of back pain.
According to one study, those who wore custom orthotics in their shoes for 6 weeks significantly improved back discomfort.
Consult a foot specialist to see whether wearing orthotics could help.
10. Physical therapy
Physical therapy is performing particular stretches and exercises under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist. These exercises may help reduce discomfort by releasing tension or strengthening certain areas. A big study trusted source discovered that patients who received physical therapy for low back pain were less likely to require other healthcare treatments for their condition later.
Dr. Vikas Mehra is the best spine surgeon in Chandigarh and provides an effective spine pain doctor in Chandigarh. Consult the top spine specialist in Chandigarh for a more accurate diagnosis and treatment plan. Dr. Mehra is the best orthopedic doctor in Chandigarh and offers the most effective treatment options.
