Spinal manipulation, most often performed by chiropractors, is the most popular alternative therapy for back pain in this country and has been the focus of extensive research. Studies have found spinal manipulation to be modestly helpful for back pain, but not necessarily more helpful than some types of physical therapy. A typical course of five to ten treatments can cost $200 to $500, but chiropractic care often receives at least partial insurance coverage. Manipulation of the vertebrae in the lower back is generally considered a very low-risk procedure.
Massage therapy is now licensed or regulated in 30 states and is rivaling chiropractic as the most popular alternative therapy for back pain. Research is still sparse, but preliminary studies suggest that massage therapy can help relieve persistent back pain and improve patients’ ability to function in daily activities. A course of five to ten treatments can cost $250 to $750. Unlike chiropractic care, massage therapy is rarely covered by health insurance.
Acupuncture is used much less often by Americans than spinal manipulation or massage, but it has received a lot of attention from researchers and the media. However, because of the generally poor quality of the research, the effectiveness of acupuncture for back pain is still unknown. A course of five to ten treatments can cost $300 to $800, and is usually not covered by insurance. But as long as it’s performed by a qualified therapist using disposable needles, acupuncture is unlikely to cause any harm.
Self-care is another option. Stretching, strengthening and aerobic exercises, yoga and stress-reduction techniques are all free once you master them. Unfortunately, people with back pain often avoid normal movements and activities because they are afraid of hurting themselves. However, because such activity limitations can actually make the problem worse, it is important to find exercises and activities that gradually restore normal movement and function. No single treatment–conventional or alternative–will work for everyone. But with patience and persistence, almost anyone can find a treatment or activity that helps.
