Non-Surgical Treatments for Back Pain: What Are Your Options?

Many patients with spine-related issues can find relief through non-surgical treatments. These approaches aim to alleviate pain, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life without the need for invasive procedures. Here’s a look at some common non-surgical treatments:

• Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers like NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen or aspirin) can reduce inflammation and relieve mild to moderate back pain. For more severe pain, your doctor may prescribe stronger medications such as muscle relaxants or nerve pain medications (e.g., gabapentin or pregabalin). Long-term use of medications should be monitored closely to avoid dependency or side effects.

• Physical Therapy: Physical therapy is often the first line of defense against neck and back pain. A trained physical therapist will guide you through exercises that strengthen the muscles supporting your spine, improve flexibility, and enhance posture. This can reduce pressure on the spine and prevent further injury. Therapies may also include stretching, manual manipulation, and electrical stimulation.

• Chiropractic Care: Chiropractic care involves spinal manipulation, where a chiropractor adjusts your spine to improve alignment and relieve pressure on nerves. Many patients report significant pain relief after chiropractic adjustments, though results vary depending on the underlying condition. It is often used in combination with other treatments.

• Acupuncture: This ancient practice involves inserting thin needles into specific points on the body to stimulate nerves and improve blood flow. Acupuncture has been shown to provide relief for some patients with chronic back pain, though it is often used as a complementary treatment rather than a standalone solution.

• Pain Management Injections: If treatment options such as medications, physical therapy, acupuncture or chiropractic care do not provide enough relief, pain management injections may be an option. Epidural steroid injections deliver anti-inflammatory medication directly into the space around the spinal nerves, reducing inflammation and alleviating pain. Facet joint injections or nerve blocks can also target specific areas of the spine to provide relief.

These non-surgical treatments can be highly effective for many patients. However, if conservative methods fail to relieve pain or if there is significant structural damage to the spine, surgery may be necessary.

Always consult with a qualified spine specialist like Dr. Remi Ajiboye to determine the most appropriate treatment for your condition.

If you have any questions or concerns about spine surgery, don’t hesitate to reach out to Dr. Remi Ajiboye for more information. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and being informed is the first step toward a successful treatment and recovery.

Remi M. Ajiboye M.D. is considered one of the best board-certified spine specialist in Los Angeles who is trained in non-surgical and surgical management of spine conditions. He has advanced training in minimally-invasive spine surgery and complex spinal reconstruction. Dr Remi Ajiboye serves Torrance, El Segundo, Long Beach, and the surrounding communities of South Bay, Manhattan Beach, Hermosa Beach, Redondo Beach, Rancho Palos Verdes, Rolling Hills, Lomita, San Pedro, Carson, Lawndale, Gardena, Hawthorne, Santa Monica, Marina Del Rey, Culver City, Inglewood, Ladera Heights, South Gate, Lynwood, Compton, Los Alamitos, Westminster, Garden Grove, Lakewood, Cerritos, Bellflower, Downey, Paramount, Bellflower, Norwalk, Whittier, Santa Fe Springs, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Orange, Tustin, Fullerton, Seal Beach, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, and greater Los Angeles county and Orange County. Contact Remi Ajiboye, MD, online or over the phone to set up an appointment.

Author

Remi Ajiboye MD Remi M. Ajiboye M.D. is a spine specialist who is trained in non-surgical and surgical management of spine conditions. He has advanced training in minimally-invasive spine surgery and complex spinal reconstruction.