There is no simple answer to this question. Treatments for chronic back pain will vary depending on the type and source of the back pain. If a treatable source of the pain is found, then the underlying process can be addressed. When the underlying cause is either not specifically identifiable or not amenable to treatment, then the symptoms are treated. The goals of the treatment are to reduce pain and to improve the quality of life.

There are several general categories of treatment recommended for chronic back pain. They include physical therapy, medications, coping skills, procedures, and alternative medicine treatments. Your treating physician should tailor a program involving a combination of these options to address your needs. Actually, 90% of the care NASS members provide is nonsurgical.

We have found that only 1% of back pain sufferers require surgery.