Prolotherapy
Prolotherapy is one of most talked-about procedures for
back pain. Prolotherapy is a treatment in which a practitioner injects a sugar solution or other irritating substance into trigger points along the periosteum (the tough, fibrous tissue covering the bones) to trigger an inflammatory response that promotes the growth of dense, fibrous tissue. The theory behind prolotherapy is that tissue growth strengthens the attachment of tendons and ligaments whose loosening has contributed to back pain. However, studies have not verified the effectiveness of prolotherapy, and only chiropractors and physicians primarily use this procedure.
Complementary and Alternative Treatments for Back Pain Treatment
When back pain becomes chronic, or when medications and other conventional therapies do not relieve it, many people try complementary and alternative back pain treatment. While such therapies won't cure diseases or repair the injuries that cause pain, some people find these therapies to be useful for managing or relieving pain. Complementary therapies include:
- Manipulation
- Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS)
- Acupuncture
- Acupressure
- Rolfing.
Manipulation
Spinal manipulation for back pain treatment refers to procedures in which professionals use their hands to mobilize, adjust, massage, or stimulate the spine or surrounding tissues. Osteopathic doctors and chiropractors usually perform this type of therapy, and it tends to be most effective in people with uncomplicated pain and when used with other therapies. Spinal manipulation is not appropriate if you have a medical problem such as
osteoporosis, spinal cord compression, or inflammatory
arthritis (such as
rheumatoid arthritis), or if you are taking blood-thinning medications such as warfarin (Coumadin
®) or heparin (Calciparine
® or Liquaemin
®).
Previous
Add this article to your Favorites
Email this article
Print