Conservative Treatment

The length of time that conservative treatment should continue varies widely. In general, the more pain and dysfunction a patient experiences, the earlier surgical treatments will be considered. The morbidity (e.g. incidence of post-operative discomfort) or extent of the surgery must also be considered, and therefore a microsurgery (small surgery using microscopes) will be considered much earlier than a much more extensive fusion operation.

At the onset of lower back pain it is generally advisable to try immediately starting physical therapy to decrease muscle spasm and allow the back to rest. More extensive bed rest seems to be counterproductive because it leads to further deconditioning (weakening) of the muscles that provide critical support for the spine.

For most people back pain tends to get better within two weeks to three months. During this time period that an episode of back pain is resolving, or if the back pain is chronic, it is important to consider the appropriate course of conservative (non-surgical) treatment in order to:

• Reduce pain and spasm
• Provide conditioning for the back
• Assist in managing issues frequently associated with back pain, such as sleeplessness or depression.

If you want to find out more about Concervative Treatment Contact Us today for an appointment.