Lower Back Pain Relief with Non-Surgical Treatments

Understanding the Impact of Lower Back Pain

It is estimated that up to 80% of people will experience low back pain at some point during their lifetimes, and at any given point in time, about 26% of US adults have lower back pain. The economic burden of lower back pain is also significant. It is estimated that the cost for low back and neck pain alone was $134 billion in 2016, and the condition increases absenteeism, decreases productivity, and contributes to early retirement. Another notable statistic is that despite clinical guidelines discouraging opioid use for back pain, there was a significant increase in opioid prescriptions among people with back problems over time.

Common Non-Surgical Treatments for Lower Back Pain

These statistics are the backdrop against which the question of nonsurgical options for relief of lower back pain is often considered. Nonsurgical options for treating lower back pain include:

• Acupuncture
• Physical therapy and exercise
• Various medication therapies
• Chiropractic care

There is limited research on acupuncture for both short-term pain relief and long-term resolution of lower back pain, although some patients do report benefit. Medication for lower back pain can come with challenges, especially when long-term use is involved. Conservative care approaches, particularly chiropractic care, have become increasingly important as a first-line option for managing lower back pain.

Chiropractic Care vs. Physical Therapy for Lower Back Pain

Chiropractic care and physical therapy show some similar benefits in the treatment of lower back pain. A well-known study involving adults with persistent lower back pain showed similar outcomes between physical therapy and chiropractic groups across multiple measures. Both groups reported high satisfaction with their care.

Clinical guidelines from organizations such as the American College of Physicians recommend spinal manipulation as a first-line option for acute lower back pain, supporting the role of chiropractic care in early management. Some research also suggests chiropractic care may be a cost-effective option in the short term for acute low back pain.

Physical therapy, on the other hand, may be particularly beneficial for post-surgical rehabilitation, sports injury recovery, and long-term functional restoration. In general:

Chiropractic care may be helpful for acute pain relief and improving joint mobility
Physical therapy may support long-term strength and functional improvement

Both approaches can play a role depending on the individual’s condition and goals.

Combining Treatments for Better Long-Term Outcomes

The bottom line is that chiropractic care is an effective, nonsurgical option for lower back pain and, particularly when combined with physical therapy exercises, may help patients work toward both pain relief and improved long-term function and stability.

The doctors at Chiropractic Health and Wellness in Edina, Minnesota, are trained in modern chiropractic and rehabilitative methods and evaluate each patient individually to determine the most appropriate care approach.

Schedule an Appointment

Schedule an appointment today with the team at Chiropractic Health and Wellness in Edina, MN if you are experiencing lower back pain. A comprehensive evaluation can help determine the underlying cause of your symptoms and whether chiropractic care may help support improved mobility, comfort, and function.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are non-surgical treatments for lower back pain?
Common options include chiropractic care, physical therapy, exercise programs, acupuncture, and certain medications aimed at reducing pain and inflammation.

Is chiropractic care effective for lower back pain?
Chiropractic care may help improve spinal movement, reduce joint restriction, and support relief from lower back discomfort, especially in acute cases.

Should you try chiropractic care before surgery?
Many clinical guidelines recommend conservative care, including chiropractic, before considering surgical options for most cases of lower back pain.

What is the difference between chiropractic care and physical therapy?
Chiropractic care focuses on joint alignment and spinal motion, while physical therapy emphasizes strengthening, mobility exercises, and functional movement.

How long does lower back pain take to improve?
Recovery time varies depending on the cause and severity. Some people improve within weeks, while others may need longer-term supportive care.