Non-Surgical Back Pain Treatment Options

In-depth patient information on full range of non-surgical back pain treatments.

Back Pain Treatment

Scoliosis Treatment
Updated October 7, 2007
There are essentially three scoliosis treatment options for adolescents primarily based on the size of the curvature and the age of the patient: observation, back braces, and surgery. Read more...

How to select the best chiropractor
Updated September 6, 2007
Some patients prefer the immediate feeling of relief offered by the “joint popping” type of manipulation by a chiropractor, while others cringe at the mere thought and request a low-force type of technique. This article outlines several issues to consider when selecting the best chiropractor for your back care. Read more...
By: Kelly Andrews, DC

What to expect at your first chiropractic visit
Updated August 2, 2007
At your first appointment, chiropractors typically complete a thorough consultation that includes your patient history, a physical examination, a review of diagnostic studies (when indicated), diagnosis, and a treatment plan tailored for you. Read more...
By: Peter J. Schubbe, DC

Living with spinal stenosis
July 25, 2007
Many people with lumbar spinal stenosis find that they can successfully manage their condition through an easy self care program including specific exercises, posture changes, pain management and nutrition. Read more...
By: Grant Cooper, MD

Heat wrap therapy can reduce post-exercise low back pain
March 14, 2007
According to this recent study, it is now possible to avoid some of the low back pain that typically follows exercise involving the lower back muscles by using heat wrap therapy prior to and after exercise. Read more...
By: John Mayer, DC, PhD

McKenzie therapy for mechanical low back pain
March 8, 2007
McKenzie Therapy is a multi-dimensional approach to classifying and treating mechanical low back pain. The McKenzie Method is designed to centralize pain so that it becomes more tolerable for the patient. This goal is achieved through completing prescribed exercises. Read more...
By: Thomas E. (Ted) Dreisinger, PhD

Myofascial therapy to treat acute and chronic pain
February 20, 2007
Tightness within the fascial system—the web of connective tissue that spreads throughout the body and surrounds muscles, bones, and organs—can be a source of back pain. Myofascial Release therapy is a low load stretch that is designed to relieve pain by releasing tightness within the fascia. Read more...
By: Lisa Ganfield, OTR/L, CHT

Living with degenerative disc disease
February 16, 2007
This article outlines the four key components of a self-care program for patients to manage the low back pain and other symptoms of degenerative disc disease and avoid surgery. Read more...
By: J. Talbot Sellers, DO

Prolotherapy for Low Back Pain
January 30, 2007
Several studies of patients with low back pain show benefits from prolotherapy, yet more research is necessary to demonstrate conclusively if and how prolotherapy works to provide relief from low back pain. For now, patients should consider prolotherapy as one of many treatment options available to them. Read more...
By: Simon Dagenais, PhD

Breaking the cycle of chronic pain and insomnia
Updated September 7, 2006
The majority of patients suffering from chronic pain, such as chronic back pain, also suffer from sleep disorders. Disrupted sleep often exacerbates chronic pain problems, which in turn makes sleeping more difficult. This article reviews several behavioral and medical approaches, including prescription sleep aids, that can help treat both chronic pain and sleeping problems. Read more...
By: William W. Deardorff, PhD, ABPP

4 proven steps to prevent osteoporosis fractures
August 29, 2006
Spine fractures can be severely disabling, often resulting in chronic pain, spinal deformity, and loss of independence. Once a spine fracture has occurred, it usually means the patient has advanced osteoporosis and is susceptible to more disabling vertebral fractures. The key is to prevent osteoporosis and fractures from ever occurring. Read more...
By: Scott Boden, MD

Pain killer addiction treatment
August 14, 2006
When patients take narcotic pain killers to avoid the withdrawal symptoms, rather than to treat the pain that caused them to take the medicine initially, the patient is considered to be addicted. Rapid opiate detoxification programs, such as Accelerated Opiate Neuro-regulation, can help patients through the withdrawal process in a manner that is relatively brief, safe, and with a minimum of withdrawal symptoms. Read more...
By: Clifford A. Bernstein, MD

Low back pain and degenerative disc disease treatments
Updated May 3, 2006
The treatment options for degenerative disc disease are either passive or active. Usually a combination of treatments is used to help control the symptoms. Passive treatments are rarely effective on their own - some active component is almost always required. Read more...
By: Peter F. Ullrich, Jr., MD

Ahh... ice massage for pain relief
Updated April 24, 2006
Most episodes of back pain are caused by muscle strain. When injured, the large muscles in the low back can become inflamed and spasm, causing low back pain and significant stiffness. Ice massage therapy can provide pain relief by slowing the inflammation and swelling that occurs after back injury and muscle strain, helping to slow the nerve impulses in the affected area. Read more...
By: Stephen H. Hochschuler, MD

Lumbar stabilization as physical therapy for lower back pain
April 2, 2001
Dynamic Lumbar Stabilization is designed to strengthen muscles to support the spine and help prevent lower back pain. This article addresses this active form of physical therapy. Read more...
By: Andrew J Cole, MD

The osteopathic medical visit
February 9, 2001
There are a number of things a back pain patient can expect from a medical examination by a Doctor of Osteopathy (D.O.). This article focuses on treatment options a D.O. can offer. Read more...
By: Wolfgang Gilliar, DO

Osteopathic medicine and back pain
February 9, 2001
Osteopathic Physicians, also known as Doctors of Osteopathic Medicine or Doctors of Osteopathy ( D.O.), diagnose and treat all illnesses and injuries and many specialize in treating back pain. This feature looks at the role of the D.O. and how they can help back pain patients. Read more...
By: Wolfgang Gilliar, DO

Prolotherapy and chronic back pain
January 25, 2001
Prolotherapy is a non-surgical injection procedure used to treat connective tissue injuries of the musculoskeletal system that have not healed by either rest or conservative therapy. This article provides an overview on this procedure and addresses potential risks. Read more...
By: Vert Mooney, MD and Bjorn Eek, MD

Osteoarthritis treatments - Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate supplements
November 28, 2000
For patients who have evidence of osteoarthritis in their spine (as seen on an x-ray) and who have had other causes of back pain and neck pain ruled out by their health care provider, glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate may be a treatment option. Read more...
By: Christopher D. Chaput, MD

Specialists who treat back pain
November 14, 2000
There are many types of health practitioners that care for patients with spinal conditions, and each has a slightly different role. The practitioner a patient chooses largely depends on the condition, diagnosis, or symptoms. Read more...
By: Philip R. Shalen, MD

The integrated approach to back pain treatment
September 5, 2000 (updated November 2000)
Before choosing which type of specialist should treat your back pain, you should know that each kind of specialist has different training and interests, and that no one type of physician treats all types of back pain, neck pain or other musculoskeletal conditions. Read more...
By: Peter F. Ullrich, Jr.

Chiropractic treatments for whiplash
August 22, 2000
Chiropractors use a systematic approach to help patients overcome the pain that comes with whiplash. Read more...
By: Donald Murphy, DC

The myths and reality of back pain
July 7, 2000
Misconceptions about back pain exist for both patients and doctors. This article addresses a number of the more common misconceptions about back pain and neck pain. Read more...
By: Andrew J. Cole, MD

Effective coping strategies for chronic pain
June 14, 2000
Whatever your medical condition, there are a number of effective strategies for coping with chronic pain. These techniques generally include relaxation training, hypnosis, biofeedback and guided imagery. Read more...
By: Andrew R. Block, PhD

Treatment options for a lumbar herniated disk
May 8, 2000 (Updated January 28, 2003)
Treatment for lumbar disk herniations will largely depend on the length of time the patient has had his or her symptoms and the severity of the pain. Generally, patients will be advised to start with 6 to 12 weeks of conservative treatment (such as physical therapy). Read more...
By: Peter F. Ullrich, Jr, MD

Chiropractic treatments of the sacroiliac joint
May 7, 2000
Today, patients with sacroiliac joint pain have a variety of first-line chiropractic treatment procedures available to them. Read more...
By: Steven G. Yeomans, DC, FACO

Introduction to conservative care
October 1999
Most episodes of back pain will get better with time and conservative treatments. Read more...

Electrotherapy for pain relief
November 1999
Recent scientific studies have proven that electricity can reduce acute and chronic pain. Learn about today's electric stimulants and how they may benefit you. Read more...
By: John Revord, MD

All about chiropractic treatments
September 12, 1999
Read all about chiropractics, the role of the Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.), What happens when the spine is "adjusted", different therapies, education, and more. Read more...
By: Steven G. Yeomans, DC

First steps in caring for low back pain
October 1999
This article provides a useful overview for self-care at the onset of back pain. Read more...
By Peter F. Ullrich, MD

Snow removal techniques to prevent low back injuries
January 27, 2006
Winter low back pain from snow removal can be prevented with correct snow shoveling technique. These tips give pointers on finding the right shovel, proper shoveling posture, and exercises to relieve muscle strain. Read more…
By: Peter J. Schubbe, D.C.

Pain-free travel tips
December 6, 2005
For many people with back pain or neck pain, the prospect of a long trip can be daunting. These travel tips can help to prevent the aggravation of back and neck conditions with strategies for packing, lifting, stretching, and more. Read more...
By: Ron Miller, PT

What is the McKenzie Method for back pain and neck pain?
November 14, 2005
The McKenzie Method is an overall philosophy of physical therapy and exercise that "centralizes" a patient's pain into the back, away from the legs and arms, and then teaches patients self-healing techniques, including exercise, for managing their own back pain or neck pain long-term. Read more...
By: Vert Mooney, MD

Hip joint injections for pain relief
August 23, 2005
A hip joint injection is a procedure that involves injecting medicine into the joint located where the leg and the pelvis join. It may be beneficial for patients suffering from leg, hip, buttock or lower back pain that results from arthritis, mechanical stress or injury to the joint. Read more…
By: Ray M. Baker, M.D.

Reducing back pain while sitting in office chairs
July 11, 2005
Sitting for prolonged periods of time in an office chair can be a major cause of back pain. This article offers some important guidelines to help make sure that your office chair and work area are as comfortable as possible and cause the least amount of stress to your spine. Read more...
By: John J. Triano, DC, PhD

Osteoarthritis Complete Treatment Guide
May 25, 2005
While there is currently no proven treatment to stop or slow the progression of osteoarthritis in the spine, there are treatments to alleviate the pain and other symptoms. Most people will benefit from a combination of lifestyle changes—particularly exercise. In only the most severe cases will surgery be necessary. Read more...
By: Vert Mooney, MD

Non-surgical Osteoarthritis treatments
May 25, 2005
It is important to get an accurate diagnosis and find the best treatments for pain from spinal arthritis. Most patients find pain relief from a combination of conservative care treatments, including heat/cold therapy, gentle exercise, and medications, and may require treatment by a multi-disciplinary team of medical professionals. Only the most severe cases tend to require surgery.Read more...
By: Vert Mooney, MD

More Osteoarthritis treatments
May 25, 2005
It is important to get an accurate diagnosis and find the best treatments for pain from spinal arthritis. Some patients find relief from a combination of conservative (including alternative) treatments, such as manipulation, massage therapy, relaxation, TENS, acupuncture, support devices, weight control, and healthy lifestyle choices. Read more...
By: Vert Mooney, MD

FDA advisory on Bextra, Celebrex and other NSAIDs
May 16, 2005
Recent FDA reviews have resulted in the withdrawal of Bextra, commonly used for arthritis and back pain, and stronger label warnings for Celebrex and other NSAIDs. Further investigation is in process on specific brands or pain medication as not all NSAIDs carry the same risks. Read more...
By: Doug Hendricks, MD

COX-2 inhibitors - Celebrex and Bextra information
October 7, 2003 (Updated March 23, 2005)
Due to the new label warnings for Bextra and recent concerns about COX-2 inhibitor health risks, it’s especially important for patients to follow Celebrex and Bextra usage recommendations and know when to consult a physician. This article clearly explains the known side effects of Celebrex and Bextra as well as the important new guidelines from the FDA. Read more...
By: Donald Frisco, MD

Understanding COX-2 inhibitor side effects
February 9, 2005
Following the Vioxx recall, the FDA issued a new advisory for physicians prescribing Celebrex, Bextra and other NSAIDs to their patients. This article summarizes the recent study findings and FDA recommendations regarding COX-2 inhibitors and naproxen, and provides several guidelines for safe use of these medications for arthritis and back pain. Read more...
By: Peter F. Ullrich, Jr., MD

Safe use of COX-2 inhibitors and other NSAIDs
February 9, 2005
In light of new information about health risks associated with COX-2 inhibitors and some other NSAIDs, treatment options will vary from patient to patient based on individual risk factors, treatment needs and past experiences taking NSAIDs. Patients are recommended to meet with a physician to determine the safest and most effective arthritis and back pain medications. Read more...
By: Peter F. Ullrich, Jr., MD

Vioxx recall and recommendations
January 31, 2005
Since the voluntary recall of Vioxx, a brand of COX-2 inhibitor commonly prescribed for arthritis and different types of back pain, many patients have concerns about other brands of COX-2 inhibitors such as Bextra and Celebrex. This article explains the events that led to the Vioxx recall and outlines the current FDA recommendations for patients using COX-2 inhibitors and other NSAIDs. Read more...
By: Gunnar B.J. Andersson, MD, PhD

Insights and advice about herniated discs
January 19, 2005
Getting an accurate diagnosis and finding the best treatments for pain from a herniated disc can be challenging. Some patients find that a combination of conservative treatment options work s best, (such as medications, injections, and physical therapy), while other patients may find that early surgical intervention is necessary to find adequate relief from the pain and symptoms caused by a herniated disc. Read more...
By: John P. Revord, MD

Radiofrequency neurotomy for facet and sacroiliac joint pain
December 27, 2004
Radiofrequency neurotomy is a pain management option for certain types of back pain that uses a heat lesion designed to interrupt the nerve's pain signals to the brain. This article explains the injection process as well as the expected results. Read more...
By: Ray Baker, MD

Review of adjustable beds
December 14, 2004
Patients with back pain should be especially choosy about the type of bed and mattress they sleep on. There is very little research in general about what types of mattresses and beds are best for the back—and no real medical research about adjustable beds. This article answers questions about how an adjustable bed works and how it could potentially help some patients to sleep more comfortably in an inclined position rather than on a flat mattress.
Read more...
By: Ron Miller, PT

Food for thought: diet and nutrition for a healthy back
December 10, 2004
Patients with back problems may not be aware that diet and nutrition play a major role in nourishing spinal structures, preventing problems and healing from injuries. Using these nutrition guidelines, patients can integrate back-friendly vitamins and nutrients (especially calcium) into their diets. Read more...
By: Kelly Andrews, DC

Cervical, thoracic and lumbar facet joint injections
November 12, 2004
The facet joints can become painful due to arthritis of the spine, a back injury or mechanical stress to the back. The pain relief from a facet joint injection is intended to help a patient better tolerate a physical therapy routine to rehabilitate his or her injury or back condition. Read more...
By: Ray Baker, MD

Costotransverse and costovertebral joint injections
September 24, 2004
Costotransverse and costovertebral joint injections both involve carefully injecting medication into the small joints where the ribs join with the spine in the upper back. The injections are used to both confirm a diagnosis that these joints are the source of the patient’s upper back pain as well as to provide pain relief. Read more...
By: Ray Baker, MD

Cervical, thoracic and lumbar interlaminar epidural injections
September 10, 2004
An epidural injection delivers steroids into the epidural space around spinal nerve roots to relieve back pain, leg pain, or other pain caused by irritated spinal nerves. The steroid used in the injection reduces the inflammation of those nerves, which is often the source of the pain. Read more...
By: Ray Baker, MD

Choosing the best mattress for low back pain
August 19, 2004
A mattress lacking in back support reinforces poor sleeping posture, strains low back muscles, and does not help keep the spine in alignment, all of which can increase low back pain. This article provides practical guidelines for choosing a mattress that provides both sleep comfort and back support. Read more...
By: J. Talbot Sellers, DO

Study on the best types of mattress for back support
July 14, 2004
A recent study reported that patients who slept on a medium-firm mattress reported less low back pain in bed and less back pain getting out of bed than patients who slept on a firm mattress. Read more...
By: Richard A. Staehler, MD

Choosing the right ergonomic office chair
July 2, 2004
An ergonomic office chair provides for the lower back support, promotes good posture, and helps alleviate back problems. This article offers guidelines for how to decide on the best office chair and introduces new office chair options for those who spend most of their time sitting at work. Read more...
By: Rodney K. Lefler, DC

Ten tips for improving posture and ergonomics
June 7, 2004
Poor posture can easily cause or aggravate episodes of back pain and over time damage spinal structures. This article offers guidelines to improve posture and ergonomics, especially for those who sit in an office chair for long hours. Read more...
By: Kelly Andrews, DC

Sciatica first aid
May 24, 2004
When sciatica flares up, it is helpful to know a range of options that can be tried to help alleviate the discomfort and pain along the sciatic nerve and stay active. Read more...
By: Randall Schultz, MD

Procedural skills in spinal manipulation: do prerequisites matter?
March 4, 2004
Training to perform spinal manipulation procedures for back pain ranges from full professional degree programs to weekend seminars. This study looks at the impact that preparation for performing spinal manipulation procedures can have on patient care. Read more...
By: John J. Triano, DC, PhD, FCCS

Acupuncture: an ancient treatment for a current problem
February 5, 2004
Acupuncture is understood to stimulate the central nervous system—the brain and spinal cord - which in turn releases pain-relieving chemicals that occur naturally in the body. People with back pain often report a tingling sensation, feeling relaxed or even energized with acupuncture treatments. Read more...
By: Paulo Zanardi AP

Back support in office chairs
December 17, 2003
In the seated position the lumbosacral discs are loaded three times more than standing, and for many people sitting in an office chair without back support either causes or exacerbates lower back pain. Read more...
By: John J. Triano, DC, PhD

Massage chairs for pain relief
November 25, 2003
A good hands-on massage can play a crucial role in alleviating back pain. Similarly, newer massage chair technologies are designed to provide some measure of relief from many types of back pain. Read more...
By: Peter Schubbe, DC

Benefits of heat therapy for lower back pain
March 20, 2003
Many episodes of lower back pain result from a strain or over-exertion, creating tension in the muscles and soft tissues around the spine. The muscle spasm that results from the back injury can create sensations that range from mild discomfort to inability to move and excruciating pain. Heat therapy can help relieve both pain from the muscle spasm and related stiffness in the lower back. Read more...
By: Vert Mooney, MD

Calcium requirements for kids' growing bones
January 16, 2003
The need for calcium acquisition and storage begins very early in life - especially in the pre-adolescent years. However, the decrease in children's milk intake has created a serious shortfall in the amount of calcium that kids have an opportunity to obtain. To grow and maintain a strong spine, kids need to have minimum calcium requirements in their diet. Read more...
By: Julian Huang, MD

Manipulation under anesthesia
October 23, 2002
It is theorized that a past or present back injury can cause adhesions and scar tissue to build up around spinal joints and within the surrounding muscles, causing pain. Manipulation under anesthesia is a non-invasive procedure offered to treat this type of acute and chronic neck pain, back pain and joint pain. Read more...
By: Richard Reid, MD, Rosie Desimone, DC, Ben Eubank, DC

Cervical herniated disc symptoms and treatment options
June 12, 2002
The arm pain from a cervical herniated disc results because the herniated disc material "pinches" or presses on a cervical nerve, causing pain to radiate along the nerve pathway down the arm. Along with the pain, numbness, tingling and/or muscle weakness may also be present down the arm and into the fingertips. Read more...
By: Rick Staehler, MD

Massage therapy for back pain
May 10, 2002
The use of massage therapy for back pain has more than doubled in recent years. In addition to its positive affects on muscle relaxation, one of the greatest benefits of massage therapy is the release of endorphins, which can be quite helpful in managing chronic back pain. Read more...
By: Beth Mueller, RMT

Bracing treatment for idiopathic scoliosis
March 26, 2002
Currently, bracing is the only non-operative treatment for adolescent idiopathic scoliosis advocated by the spine medical community. This article discusses the types of braces used—TLSO, Milwaukee, and Charleston Bending Brace—a case example, and outcomes of bracing treatment. Read more...
By: Paul C. McAfee, MD

Preparing for your consultation with a spine doctor
December 11, 2001
The better prepared you are for your doctor's visit the more productive it will be for you and for your physician. This article includes a comprehensive list of questions you can expect your doctor to ask you. Read more...
By: Charles D. Ray, MD

Pain management for chronic back pain
October 24, 2001
Pain used to be something many patients simply had to learn to "live" with. Recently, researchers have learned a great deal about pain and its physiological and psychological basis, leading to treatments that can provide complete or partial pain relief. Read more...
By: John Revord, MD

Treatment options for neuropathic pain
June 27, 2001
Currently there is no proven treatment to prevent or cure neuropathic pain (neuropathy or nerve pain). Instead, the primary goals of treatment are to reduce the pain as much as possible, balance the negative side effects of the treatment, and help patients manage any unresolved pain. Read more...
By: Ralph F. Rashbaum, MD

Stress related back pain
April 5, 2001
A stress related back pain diagnosis means that psychological factors either initiated or are maintaining the back pain, or both. This article addresses the causes, diagnosis, and treatments for stress related back pain. Read more...
By: William W. Deardorff, PhD, ABPP

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Osteoarthritis exercises
July 3, 2007
Exercise is actually beneficial for osteoarthritis pain. The type of exercise need not result in heart-pounding, sweat-inducing fatigue to be beneficial; a program that increases flexibility, builds strength, and provides low impact aerobic conditioning will deliver substantial benefits. Read more...
By: Vert Mooney, MD

Home exercise equipment for low impact aerobic exercise
May 23, 2007
Home exercise equipment, such as treadmills, elliptical trainers, and stationary bikes can allow easy access to one's exercise program and are relatively low impact on the spine. Read more...
By: Megan Tyner, ACE

How to start an exercise ball program
March 1, 2007
Getting started using an exercise ball can be a challenge. This article provides simple steps to get familiar with an exercise ball – sitting comfortably on it, stretching and beginning exercises. Once one has developed a comfort level with these activities, more sophisticated exercises can be incorporated into the exercise ball program. Read more...
By: J. Talbot Sellers, DO

Sciatica exercises
Updated January 3, 2007
Exercise and gentle stretching are usually better for healing sciatic pain than bed rest, and a physical therapist or other spine specialist often recommends exercise as a treatment option for the low back pain and leg pain associated with sciatica. This article provides helpful illustrations and explanations of key strengthening and stretching exercises to treat sciatica from a herniated disc, degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis and other back problems. Read more...
By: Ron S. Miller, PT

Water therapy exercise program
December 27, 2006
Water therapy exercise is especially helpful in cases where a land-based exercise program is not possible for patients due to pain, decreased bone density, disability or other factors. In addition to spine conditions, water therapy can also help patients who have diabetes or high blood pressure. Read more...
By: Andrew J. Cole, MD and Bruce E. Becker, MD, MS

Rehabilitation and exercise for a healthy back
November 21, 2006
Whether suffering from the first bout of low back pain or following extensive treatments or even surgery, the best way for patients to avoid or minimize the severity of recurrences is to rehabilitate the back through appropriate exercise. Read more...
By: Vert Mooney, MD

Abdominal and back exercise recommendations
October 11, 2006
A high percentage of back pain complaints are due to soft tissue injury or back muscle strain. Strengthening the abdominal muscles and back muscles by ab exercise (stomach exercise) and lower back exercise may help prevent back pain. Read more...
By: Thomas E. Hyde, DC

Sports and your spine
July 20, 2000
For people with back pain, sports can still be a viable option if they pay attention to their back. This article addresses the strains some of the more popular sports can have on the back and the different steps one can take to prevent them. Read more...
By: Thomas E. Hyde, DC

How a physical therapist can help with exercise
June 16, 2000
Back pain sufferers are often referred to a physical therapist, whose role is to provide pain relief, rehabilitate, and educate patients.
By: Carol M. McFarland MS, PT, OCA

Strengthening exercise program for low back pain relief
June 27, 2005
Strengthening exercises help stabilize the spine and decrease stress on the lower back and pelvis. Most spinal stabilization exercise programs include strengthening both the abdominal and gluteal muscles. The key is an exercise program that is simple and easily done. Read more...
By: Robert J. Daul, MPT

Exercise ball therapy for low back pain
June 2, 2005
Exercise programs using exercise balls are designed to help prevent further episodes of low back pain as part of a patient's low back rehabilitation program. This article provides in-depth information on uses, exercises, benefits and drawbacks of therapy with an exercise ball. Read more...
By: Thomas E. Hyde, DC, DACBSP

Exercise bikes for a low stress workout
April 27, 2005
Many patients have trouble finding an exercise program with an appopriate level of intensity and minimal impact. An exercise bike is a good option that provides a low stress workout incorporating aerobic exercise, strengthening and flexibility, while still being gentle for the back. Read more...
By: J. Talbot Sellers, DO

Exercise for back pain during pregnancy
December 21, 2004
Although pregnant women may be tempted to rest rather than exercise if they are experiencing back pain, in many cases, gentle exercise can decrease muscle spasms, boost energy levels and help with an easier labor, delivery and recovery. This article explains some simple cardiovascular, strength and flexibility exercises women can use for back pain during pregnancy. Read more...
By: Alicia Silva, MSPT

A healthy weight for a healthy back
December 15, 2004
Obese and overweight patients may be surprised to learn that they have an increased risk for certain back conditions such as osteoarthritis, where their extra weight puts extra pressure on their joints. This article helps to explain why maintaining a healthy weight level is particularly necessary for back pain patients. Read more...
By: Kelly Andrews, DC

Weight loss for back relief
November 2, 2004
Being obese or overweight can increase low back pain, joint pain, spinal disc problems, muscle strain and other conditions. However, patients who are overweight or obese may be unaware that excess weight is increasing not only their current pain but also their risk of future problems. This article gives practical guidelines on how exercise, diet and weight loss can help with back relief. Read more...
By: Donald J. Frisco, MD

Back exercise and fitness for back pain relief
August 4, 2004
For most back problems, exercise and movement are the natural stimuli for the healing process. Gentle exercise, rather than inactivity and bed rest, most often provides the best long-term solution for reducing back pain and preventing (or lessening) future episodes of pain. Read more...
By: Stephen H. Hochschuler, MD

Exercise walking for better back health
May 24, 2004
Exercise walking is an excellent way for most people with low back pain to benefit from regular exercise while not aggravating the structures in the lower back. Read more...
By: Ted Forcum, DC, DACBSP, FICC, CSCS and Thomas Hyde, DC, DACBSP

Good posture helps reduce back pain
May 17, 2004
Not maintaining good posture and adequate back support stresses the spine, which over time can lead to changes in the anatomical characteristics of the spinal structures and back pain from problems with muscles, nerves, discs and joints. Read more...
By: John Schubbe, DC

Tai Chi for posture and back pain
February 19, 2004
Tai Chi involves slow, deliberate, flowing movement of the body (no jarring motions that create impact on the spine) along with a focus on breathing, all carried out with particular mental focus. This combination is why Tai Chi is referred to as "meditation in motion" and can be an ideal exercise for people with back pain. Read more...
By: Robert Humphreys, DC

Healing benefits of yoga for back pain
January 27, 2004
Among other things, yoga helps ease lower back pain by gently stretching and strengthening the muscles of the lower back and legs and increasing blood circulation, which in turn brings healing nutrients to the injured tissues. Read more...
By: Fred Busch

Yoga for back problems
December 2, 2003
Studies have shown that those who practice yoga for as little as twice a week for 8 weeks make significant gains in strength, flexibility, and endurance, which is a basic goal of most rehabilitation programs for neck or back problems. Read more...
By: Karen P. Barr, MD

Choosing the right exercise ball
October 22, 2003
When sitting upright on an exercise ball, feet should be flat on the floor, knees should be level or slightly lower than the pelvis, and the pelvis, shoulders, and ears should be in a vertical line. Read more...
By: Ron Miller, PT

Pilates exercise system to promote back health
March 21, 2003
Pilates is an exercise program that can help alleviate and prevent future episodes of back pain. In particular, learning awareness of neutral alignment of the spine and strengthening the deep postural muscles that support this alignment are important skills for back pain patients. Read more...
By: Beth Glosten, MD, Certified Pilates Instructor

Exercise ball physical therapy for back pain
June 29, 2001
The exercise ball (swiss ball) is designed to help prevent further episodes of back pain as part of a rehabilitation program. This article provides tips on uses, exercises, and important considerations you should know before starting therapy with an exercise ball. Read more...
By: Thomas E. Hyde, DC, DACBSP

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Low back pain relief using a pneumatic vest
February 14, 2006
Some patients find significant low back pain relief after taking weight off the spine by resting. This article reports on recently published research about the effectiveness of using a pneumatic vest to provide low back pain relief by unweighting the spine while allowing the patient to stay more active. Read more...
By: John J. Triano, DC, PhD

Effectiveness of glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate for osteoarthritis
April 19, 2005
Although there is not yet a proven treatment to stop or slow the progression of osteoarthritis, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate nutritional supplements may provide a viable alternative for some patients. An FDA study on the effects and safety of glucosamine and chondroitin dietary supplements is currently underway, and many physicians support their use because of the low incidence of serious side effects (compared to other medications, such as COX-2 inhibitors and other NSAIDs). Read more...
By: Thomas E. Hyde, DC

Rechargeable spinal cord stimulators for chronic pain
September 23, 2005
Spinal cord stimulators are small devices implanted under a patient’s skin with the purpose of stopping pain signals from reaching the brain and thus alleviating chronic or neuropathic pain. They may be recommended if conservative treatments fail to relieve chronic pain. Read more...
By: Thomas M. Wascher, MD, FACS

Pneumatic vest - a new lower back pain treatment option
May 28, 2003
Many patients with lower back pain feel worse with activity that loads the spine (such as walking). For patients who meet specific criteria there is a new treatment that is designed to unload some of the weight from the patient's lumbar spine, thus simulating a state of decreased weight-bearing on the lower back. Read more...
By: Andrew J. Cole, MD

PNT - a minimally invasive treatment for lower back pain
August 28, 2002
The treatment involves the delivery of electrical stimulation directly to the deeper tissues (muscles, ligaments, tendons) near the spine through several needle electrodes. The theory is that this type of electrical stimulation helps curtail the central nervous system hypersensitivity that leads to persistent pain. Read more...
By John Revord, MD

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• Cervical epidural steroid injection
• Discography
• Facet joint injections
• Lumbar epidural steroid injection
• Lumbar sympathetic block
• Medial branch block
• RACZ caudal neurolysis
• Sacroiliac joint steroid injection

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