Back pain is a common issue that can significantly impact daily life. At New Jersey Orthopaedic Institute, we understand how spinal arthritis and related conditions can disrupt your routine. Fortunately, many patients find relief through non-surgical pain management techniques tailored to their needs. Here are some effective approaches we recommend to help you get back to doing what you love.
Physical Therapy for Strength and Flexibility
Physical therapy is a cornerstone of managing spinal arthritis pain. A spine specialist or skilled therapist can design exercises that strengthen the muscles around the spine, improve flexibility, and reduce pressure on arthritic joints. Regular sessions not only help with pain relief but also improve posture and overall mobility.
Medications for Inflammation and Pain Control
Over-the-counter medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen, can help reduce inflammation and alleviate pain. In some cases, doctors may prescribe stronger pain medications or muscle relaxants to manage more severe discomfort.
Corticosteroid Injections for Targeted Relief
Corticosteroid injections offer targeted pain relief by reducing inflammation directly in the affected area. These injections can provide relief that lasts for several months and are particularly useful for patients experiencing flare-ups that don’t respond well to oral medications.
Heat and Cold Therapy to Soothe Stiffness
Applying heat or cold packs to the affected area can reduce pain and stiffness. Heat helps relax tense muscles and improves blood flow, while cold therapy reduces inflammation and numbs the painful area. Alternating between the two can provide balanced relief.
Dorsal Column Spinal Cord Stimulation for Chronic Pain
For patients with chronic spinal arthritis pain who haven’t found relief through other methods, dorsal column spinal cord stimulation may be a viable option. This technique involves implanting a device that sends electrical impulses to the spinal cord, disrupting pain signals before they reach the brain. SCS can provide long-term pain relief and improve the quality of life for many patients, offering an alternative to more invasive surgical procedures.
Lifestyle Changes to Minimize Pain
In addition to the above options, simple lifestyle changes, like maintaining a healthy weight, staying active, and avoiding heavy lifting, can make a big difference in managing spinal arthritis. Reducing stress on the spine helps prevent further joint damage and minimizes pain.
Non-surgical interventions provide many patients with effective pain relief and an improved quality of life. If you’re experiencing symptoms of spinal arthritis and want a solution that doesn’t require surgery, our spine specialists are here to help. Schedule a consultation with NJOI to explore a personalized, non-surgical treatment plan designed to address your unique needs and get you back to enjoying life fully.
AUTHOR
J. Everett Kooch, D.O., is a Board Certified Spine Specialist in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, specializing in spinal care at the New Jersey Orthopaedic Institute. Dr. Kooch treats a wide range of patients, including elite athletes, industrial athletes with work-related injuries, and weekend warriors.
