Don’t Be Fooled By These Back Pain Treatments
Category: Back Pain | Author: Stefano Sinicropi
Today is April Fool’s Day, and if you’re like most people, you’re probably keeping your eye out for pranks and hijinks around your home and office. No matter what day it is, when it comes to back pain, it’s important that you don’t get fooled by some bad treatment advice. In today’s blog, we explain how you can avoid being fooled by some less-than-stellar advice for caring for your spine and neck pain.
Don’t Let Bad Back Pain Advice Fool You
Every patient is different, so it would be irresponsible for us to say that all of the following treatments are bad 100 percent of the time. That being said, we’re going to explain why some of the following treatment techniques may not be the best solution for your spine pain.
- Pain Medication – Painkillers can be a great complementary option for your spinal discomfort, but they shouldn’t be your preferred or only treatment option. Painkillers are a passive option that don’t actually treat the underlying issue. They can definitely help while you recover following a back surgery, but for best results, you’ll want to pursue targeted active solutions like physical therapy, exercise and strength training.
- Inversion Tables – Again, we’re not saying inversion tables are always bad for all types of back pain, but let’s just say that compared to other techniques, there’s a lot more that can go wrong than can go right if not used properly. Performed with oversight by a physical therapist or spinal specialist, an inversion table can provide some relief for the right type of patient, but it’s not a perfect solution for a wide range of issues. Done incorrectly, it can make your back issue much worse. Odds are a more effective and practical solution exists.
- Jumping To Surgery – Surgery can be just what the doctor ordered, but you need to remember that it is a significant undertaking for your body. It’s going to take time and effort to recover from surgery, even if it goes as planned. That’s why most doctors recommend non-operative treatment methods first. That’s not to say that surgery can’t be the first option, but be careful about jumping at the first surgeon who recommends operating. We always recommend that you get a second opinion if surgery is on the table.
- Injections – Injections are a lot like painkillers on this list because while they can help to provide relief, they typically aren’t a stand-alone option. Injections are best paired with physical therapy or other strength training exercises that help to improve the physical function of an area while pain is minimal and movement is more comfortable. And like painkillers, the effectiveness of injections fades the more you rely on them, so they aren’t a great long-term option.
Instead of falling into these traps, connect with a spine specialist who can ensure you get the individual attention and care you need for your spine pain. Don’t be fooled by empty promises and passive treatment. Treat your back pain head on and give yourself the best chance at a full recovery. For more information, or for help treating your back or neck pain, reach out to Dr. Sinicropi’s office today.
