The Currently Practiced Non Surgical Back Pain Treatment Options

By Paulette Hart


The non surgical back pain treatment Marietta residents have access to has been found, in most cases, to be as effective as the surgical interventions in the long run. The only major advantage that the latter has is that it yields better results in the management of sciatica and particularly that due to herniated spinal discs and spinal stenosis. The nonsurgical approach includes physical therapy, pharmacological agents, spinal injections, chiropractic techniques and alternative medicine.

Physical therapy (exercise) uses both passive modalities and therapeutic exercise to rehabilitate the spinal column and other body parts. Heat and cold therapies in form of ice packs or heating pads, are commonly used to reduce inflammation, muscle spasms and pain. Manual manipulation conducted by a qualified health professional such as a chiropractor or osteopath is often very effective. It reduces the pressure on sensitive structures and muscle tension, increases flexibility and improves blood flow. Therapeutic massage is another option that can be used to improve blood flow and decrease stiffness.

There are many pharmacological agents used in this area. They can be obtained over the counter or as prescription medication. Muscle relaxants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, opioids and antidepressants are the commonly used drug groups. Apart from providing relief, these drugs also reduce inflammation and promote healing.

Spinal injections are sometimes given in an attempt to target the exact painful area. They are effective in providing immediate relief because of their numbing effect. There are several types of injections in common usage and these include selective nerve root blocks, epidural steroid nerve injections, facet joint injections and sacroiliac joint blocks. They are normally used in combination with other therapies. They are also used as a diagnostic tool. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation also relives pain by acting on the nervous system.

The chiropractic techniques that have been used successfully include massage, manual palpation, exercise programs, lifestyle and nutrition counselling and manipulation under anaesthesia. The reasoning behind this technique is that most diseases result from disorders within the spinal column. Correcting this abnormality is believed to cure most of them.

The other non surgical back pain treatment Marietta patients and health providers have turned to is alternative medicine. This field is wide and includes techniques such as acupuncture, special biofeedback techniques and herbal medicine. The general advice is that one should be wary of unqualified individuals who pose as experts in this area.




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