Back pain is a familiar concern bothering numerous individuals in the United States. The increased cases of back pain are due to its numerous risk factors. For example, it may develop due to muscle strain from an accident or heavy lifting. Also, it can result due to conditions like arthritis or scoliosis.
While chronic back pain can be complex, seeing a Palmetto back pain doctor can help treat the issue using surgical and non-surgical procedures. The doctor will perform a thorough examination to check the most effective treatment. Below are some treatments your back pain doctor can recommend.
Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Higher inflammation levels are strongly related to various types of chronic back pain. As a result, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like naproxen and ibuprofen work perfectly for some of this pain. Since inflammation can result from several situations, following an anti-inflammatory diet is one effective way to lower inflammation. Some foods, including processed and sugary foods, can worsen inflammation. Doctors can recommend nuts, vegetables, fish, fruits, and whole grains to reduce inflammation.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapists can assist you in how to stand, sit, and move to maintain proper spine alignment and alleviate strain on your back. Consequently, they can teach you personalized exercises which toughen the core muscles responsible for supporting your back. Your risk of developing back pain in the future is minimal when you have a strong core. Research shows that when you enhance your flexibility, strength, and endurance, back pain declines, even though it takes some time.
Pharmacological Treatments
Prescription drugs are some of the most popular chronic back pain treatments. They perform well when used together with other non-surgical and conservative treatments. Your back pain doctor can recommend you take acetaminophen like Tylenol to alleviate your pain. However, while these drugs can address your pain, they cannot be effective for inflammation.
As you require a prescription for acetaminophen, attempting other non-prescription like aspirin and ibuprofen is advisable. Based on your situation, your provider can recommend other medications, including antidepressants and muscle relaxants.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation
Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) comprises a person employing sticky electrode patches on their back. Once they activate the battery-powered device, it propels electrical impulses to the electrode that can intrude pain signals.
Various studies have proved this method lowers pain for individuals stumbling with low back pain. You can obtain a TENS by purchasing from your doctor or online sellers. If you need help using it, your doctor can explain the procedure.
Back Surgery
If your bulging disc is inserting pressure on a nerve, your back pain doctor can suggest a discectomy to eliminate some disc material. Alternatively, the provider can recommend a laminectomy to decompress a region with pressure on the spinal cord or nerves. Unfortunately, like other surgeries, back surgeries consist of risks, and they may be unsuccessful. Thus, healthcare providers usually suggest this option when other conservative and non-surgical treatment options are ineffective.
Chronic back pain can be challenging to treat, but that should never be an excuse to stay at home with your pain. Therefore, if you are tired of the existing back pain you encounter or want more information on different treatments, see a back pain specialist.
Your provider will examine your back structure to determine the root of your pain. Afterward, they will recommend the most effective treatments, from lifestyle modification, and injections to surgery, depending on your choice, severity, and location of the pain.