Back pain is usually the result of disc disease, whether through nerve impingement with compression or herniation. Cervical, or neck, thoracic or lumbar pains are often labeled with the generic term back pain. Many medical remedies treat back pain, but not all health insurance policies cover these treatments, some of which are costly. Ideally, many of these treatments will be carried out concomitantly, in conjunction with another treatment.
Manipulation
Chiropractor visits and physical therapy are both medical remedies for back and disc pain. Chiropractors decrease pain by osteo-manipulative techniques, stretching muscles and ligaments that support the bony structures of the spine. Physical therapy involves both passive and participative activities to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine and increase mobility. Physical therapy passive remedies can include massage, TENS units and ultrasound therapies.
Spinal Injections
Those with known discogenic disease have the option of receiving spinal injections to treat the back pain. Facet injections involve injecting a numbing agent into the spinal facet and are usually carried out in doctor's offices, the North American Spine Society notes. Epidural spinal injections, or ESIs, are injections into the epidural space of the spine inclusive of a steroid to decrease inflammation around the nerve root. Epidural injections are usually repeated for efficacy, the society notes, with a series of at least three injections.
Surgery
Back surgery is a major operation and the consideration to have this surgery should not be taken lightly. Spinal surgeries to treat disc diseases include laminectomies, decompression, fusion and discectomy to name a few. These remedies work by releasing pressure in the spinal cord and allowing the discs to re-expand to their original shape.
Medications
Whether over-the-counter or prescription narcotics, medications are part of most back pain remedies. Over-the-counter medications that decrease inflammation will reduce back and disc pain such as acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Prescription medications, such as muscle relaxants, work on the central nervous system to stop painful muscle spasms and renew mobility. These medications are intended for short-term use only, and can cause excessive sedation as one main side effect, according to Spine Universe.
