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Non-Invasive Treatment Methods for Back Pain
Back pain is a common complaint among both men and women and a major cause of adult
disability. The pain can range from a persistent dull ache to a sudden sharp pain.
Generally, pain in the lower back area is the result of trauma such as falls, injuries,
accidents, muscle/ligament strain, skeletal
irregularities and bulging/ruptured disc. The major
risk factors that increase the risk of the condition
include age, excess body weight, limited physical
activity, psychological conditions and smoking.
Awkward bending, bad posture, carrying heavy
objects, poor lifting practices, sitting in the same
position for long hours, overuse of
muscles/ligaments, heavy or strenuous work and
muscle imbalances are common factors can also
trigger pain in the lower back. Back pain can also
occur due to medical conditions such as arthritis,
fibromyalgia, sciatica, spondylitis or spinal
stenosis.
Effective Non-invasive Interventions for Low Back Pain
There are multiple noninvasive treatment options for acute and chronic low back pain.
These include non-drug, non-invasive pain management techniques, medication and
injection. The treatment prescribed will differ depending on factors such as how long the
person has suffered pain, the severity and location of pain and individual needs and
preferences.
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Noninvasive, non-drug pain management techniques
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) – A small, battery-
operated device delivers low-voltage electrical current via electrodes placed near the
affected area. The electricity stimulates the nerves and sends signals to the brain
and reduce the perception of pain.
Manual techniques – This involves manipulation of affected area by applying force
to the joints, muscles, and ligaments. Chiropractic is a popular manual technique for
back pain.
Ice or heat application - Ice packs help to reduce muscle spasm and joint
inflammation, wher as heat application relaxes the muscles.
Exercise - This can improve a patient’s strength, mobility and range of motion. It
generally includes a unique combination of strengthening, stretching, isometric and
aerobic programs to improve posture and flexibility.
Injections
Epidural steroid injections – These injections deliver steroids directly in to the
painful area of the lower back in order to reduce inflammation.
Prolotherapy – This treatment modality (also called regenerative injection therapy)
involves injecting a dextrose solution into the ligament and tendon where the bones
are attached to relieve pain.
Medications
Pain relievers and related drugs are administered from the initial onset of acute pain as well
as to treat chronic back pain. These include analgesics, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
agents (NSAIDs), and muscle relaxants.
Signs and Symptoms of Back Pain
The symptoms associated with this condition include –
Muscle pain
Tingling or burning sensations
Shooting or stabbing aches
Limited flexibility or range of motion of the back
Inability to stand up straight and muscle spasms or stiffness
Pain that radiates down the leg
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The intensity of pain may differ from one person to another depending on the type and
severity of symptoms.
If you experience any of these symptoms, the ideal option is to get treatment at an
established healthcare center. Such centers would have an experienced team comprising
pain management physicians, physical therapists, neurologists, and other specialists. These
healthcare professionals will work together to evaluate your condition and provide you with
an individualized treatment plan to help manage your back pain and improve mobility and
function.