This article is one of a series covering back pain — causes, symptoms, and the treatments we use at Back and Body Medical in Midtown Manhattan. For the complete overview, see the full guide:
→ Back Pain Treatment in New York City — The Complete Guide
Many different procedures are available for back pain and similar problems. If you’re considering back surgery, we would advise you to first think about nonsurgical, non-invasive treatments, or so-called conservative methods.
The medical community is now also considering better solutions because things can go wrong for patients and also the cost for society is huge.
Those who should go for back surgery are the ones whose pain comes from infections and tumor or because of the mechanical problem of the spine.
In other cases, there are different possibilities to consider.
The time factor
In many cases, back problems get better over time. So, you should wait for a while — the pain may go away.
See the doctor if together with back pain you develop the fever or you can’t control your bladder or bowel.
Use ice and heat
In the acute stage of your pain, ice can help to reduce numbness and inflammation (swelling). Apply cold towel or ice pack.
The heat can reduce stiffness. Apply heat for about 15 minutes (it can be a hot pack or a warm bath/shower).
Try alternating between the two. Use the heat, and then a few hours later, use ice.
Exercise
Rest can help at the beginning, but afterward, you should stay physically active and keep moving.
Do stretches and strength exercises. Tai chi and yoga can do much for you.
Muscles need to keep moving and bear weight to continue to support the body. Also, introduce a daily walk. Stay active.
Exercise helps to keep the right posture, and also helps you feel well psychologically!
Take painkillers when you need them
Some painkillers not only reduce pain but also fight inflammation. Such ones are ibuprofen or aspirin. Although, be cautious with it and don’t use it for a long time.
Physical therapy
If your back pain lasts more then two weeks, you should seek a physical therapist. There is a passive and an active part of physical therapy. Passive is when the therapist does one of the following procedures:
- Heat and ice packs
- Iontophoresis
- Ultrasound
- TENS
The active part is composed of a variety of exercises that you will do together with the therapist and also by yourself.
Keep in mind that what works for one person, may not work for another. Find what is best for you, what gives you relief.
Call Back & Body Medical for a consultation. We would gladly help!
Dr Shan Sivendra MD is the founder and medical director of Back and Body Medical in Midtown Manhattan. A board-certified medical doctor, certified acupuncturist, and Director of House Physicians at St. Barnabas Medical Center, Dr Sivendra has been practicing in New York since 1995.
He completed his residency in Internal Medicine at Saint Barnabas Medical Center (affiliated with Mount Sinai School of Medicine) and received the Resident Research Award for three consecutive years.
Dr Sivendra has a background spanning internal medicine, pain management, and conservative spine rehabilitation, and was licensed in both the US and the UK.
At Back and Body Medical, he leads a multidisciplinary team of chiropractors, physical therapists, and acupuncturists dedicated to helping patients recover from pain without surgery or unnecessary medication.
Further Reading: Back Pain