7 Ways to Treat Chronic Back Pain Without Surgery

Chronic back pain, defined as any back pain that lasts 12 weeks or longer, affects nearly 16 million Americans. Because the condition often interferes with mobility and quality of life, many people are referred to orthopedic specialists and encouraged to explore surgery. 

But an operation isn’t necessarily a foregone conclusion. In fact, up to 90% of cases are successfully treated without surgery.

At Preserve Physical Therapy in The Woodlands, Texas, experienced physical therapist Rupal Mehta, PT, MS, DPT, PhD, has seen this statistic play out firsthand. He’s helped countless people with chronic back pain relieve symptoms and return to their favorite activities.

Keep reading for seven proven nonsurgical chronic back pain treatments.

7 non-surgical treatments for chronic back pain

The right treatment for you depends on several factors. Here are seven proven recommendations from Dr. Mehta:

1. Physical therapy (PT)

PT uses targeted stretches, personalized exercises, and manual therapies to build strength, reduce inflammation, and promote flexibility. It also provides one-on-one instruction on posture and body mechanics to reduce pressure on your spine and prevent future flare-ups.

2. Over-the-counter (OTC) medication

You don’t necessarily need a prescription medicine to manage chronic back pain. Often, OTC anti-inflammatory medications, like ibuprofen, are enough to provide significant relief. 

If your symptoms persist or worsen, Dr. Mehta may prescribe something stronger, such as a muscle relaxant or nerve pain medication.

3. Chiropractic care

Chiropractic care is a manual therapy that focuses on aligning your spine and supporting the surrounding musculoskeletal system. It uses hands-on spinal manipulation to keep your vertebrae in the proper position, making it easier to move comfortably. In many cases, it can be just as effective as physical therapy.

4. Acupuncture

This ancient Chinese practice involves inserting small, thin needles into specific areas of your back, stimulating your nerves, triggering natural pain-relieving responses, and improving circulation. Many people who undergo a series of acupuncture treatments report reduced pain and stiffness.

5. Lifestyle changes

Lifestyle factors like smoking, carrying excess weight, and failing to exercise typically worsen chronic back pain. However, small adjustments to your daily routine can make a big difference. 

For example, quitting smoking is one of the best ways to protect your intervertebral discs (the soft tissues that pad the vertebrae). Similarly, regular exercise can strengthen your spine and improve flexibility, while even modest weight loss can reduce pressure and relieve pain.

6. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT)

Chronic back pain affects your mind just as much as it does your body. Working with a mental health provider trained in CBT can help reframe how you respond to pain and alleviate the emotional toll it takes. While it doesn’t work overnight, a series of therapy sessions can help you better manage pain and improve your quality of life. 

7. Interventional pain management

If your chronic back pain is due to a physical problem, like a pinched nerve or herniated disc, targeted treatments may be necessary to reduce inflammation and promote healing. 

Interventional pain management options, such as epidural steroid injections and nerve blocks, can target the pain at its source and provide lasting relief.

Schedule chronic back pain treatment

Chronic back pain is incredibly common, but surgery isn’t the only viable treatment option. Contact us today to see how physical therapy and other conservative therapies can relieve symptoms, support mobility, and improve your quality of life. Call (832) 510-3967 or book online.