Most people tend to panic at the slightest idea that their back discomfort could be caused by a spine injury. People often think that back problems mean they need painful spine surgeries that take months to recover from or if they can recover at all. This may be because of the stories circulating regarding spine injuries and surgeries out there.
But the truth is that many people with back problems don’t need surgery to get spinal rehabilitation. In fact, some of the finest neurosurgeons only recommend surgery as a last option when non-surgical treatments do not work. You might not realize it, but most people suffering from back pain get much relief from non-invasive treatments, and some even get their full function back and live pain-free lives.
Let’s look at five ways to help spinal rehabilitation that don’t involve surgery.
1. Physical Therapy
Back and neck pain are often caused by either bad posture, weak muscles, or a combination of both. In these cases, orthopedic doctors at Litchfield, CT, may suggest physical therapy to reinforce the muscles around your neck and back. They will also help your body to stand straight again, making the pain disappear.
Usually, there are two parts to a physical therapy plan:
- Passive therapy, where the therapist moves your muscles to relieve pain and get you moving again.
- Active exercise which helps the body become stronger. You may also be given exercises at home by your physical therapist.
Many patients find permanent relief after physical therapy and ongoing workouts to sustain the muscles’ strength and keep the spine in the right place.
2. Aquatic Therapy
A spine doctor in Litchfield, CT, may suggest aquatic therapy for people who don’t do well with conventional physical therapy or require a moderate alternative. The main goals are the same as in physical therapy, but the warm water in this aquatic therapy adds a combination of relaxation and physical resistance to the exercises.
In addition, because of our natural buoyancy in water, walking or standing up in the water is easier on our bones and joints than on land. Therefore, when it comes to chronic back pain, spine injuries, arthritis, and other forms of joint discomfort, aquatic therapy is a great non-surgical option.
3. Spinal Braces
With some back problems, the best way to get better and feel less pain is not to move more but to stop moving for a while. In these kinds of situations, the doctor may suggest wearing a spinal brace to keep the back or neck part that hurts from moving. Braces can help with compression by taking pressure off of weak or hurt vertebrae. This allows the vertebrae to heal and alleviate the pain.
Braces can also be used to straighten the spine slowly. Spinal braces can be customized to immobilize the upper back, lower back, or neck. They can also be rigid or flexible depending on the purpose,
4. Massage Therapy
Massage therapy can be beneficial when muscle tension and stress worsen back pain, especially for people suffering from lower back pain. Muscles, ligaments, tendons, and skin can be manipulated to help relax the body and improve blood flow. This can also stop muscle spasms from happening. In addition, when people get massage therapy, they often feel less depressed. Sometimes, the doctor will suggest massage therapy in addition to other kinds of treatment.
5. Acupuncture
This centuries-old holistic method has recently experienced a rise in popularity. Acupuncture is a medical practice wherein fine needles are inserted into particular body points to stimulate the body’s natural painkilling and healing mechanisms. Acupuncture may help reduce pain by causing the body to produce more of its opioids.
Additionally, acupuncture’s physiological effects can quicken recovery and boost the immune system. Surgery is not your sole option for relieving back or neck discomfort.
Before proposing any surgical procedure, our Spine Specialist Litchfield County Ortho staff is committed to exploring all non-surgical treatment options for spinal rehabilitation first. Give us a call now to find out more about our services!