Drawbacks of Traditional Back Pain Treatment Methods

This article gives information about the drawbacks of various traditional methods for treating back pain.

Orthopedic Care

Most back pain patients visit an orthopedic surgeon, when they first experience symptoms. Ideally, the specialist should do a full body evaluation. After this, he/she may prescribe some appropriate treatment methods which are described below, including their disadvantages:

Cortisone Injections

Cortisone shots help reduce inflammation in the affected area. These injections can be painful. Besides, they do not relieve pain. Another drawback is the effects last for only a couple of weeks. Cortisone shots do not address the cause of back pain, and treat only the symptom.

Anti-inflammatory Drugs

Some doctors prescribe these medications to relieve back pain. However, like cortisone shots, anti-inflammatory drugs also treat only the symptom and not the cause of back pain. Therefore, it would be better to avoid them.

Back Surgery

Surgery is recommended in certain cases of back pain, such as herniated discs. Surgery can remove the portion of the disc affecting nerves. However, surgery is recommended only as a last resort, if all other treatments do not prove effective.

Physical Therapy

Your orthopedic specialist may refer you to a physical therapist. The therapist will evaluate your condition and recommend appropriate exercises. Physical therapy sessions may include ultrasound and electrical stimulation to the affected area. The therapist may also teach you how to apply ice to relieve back pain. He/she will also give you a list of exercises that can be done at home. But, the drawback is that the therapist may not have the time to give you individual attention.

Chiropractic Care

The chiropractor will manipulate joints and bones to line things back to normal. He/she may ask you to visit two or three times a week. But, the drawback is that most chiropractors ignore muscle imbalances that are the main reason why bones and joints go out of alignment.