Living with Back Pain

How Integrative Therapies Can Heal Back Pain

Chiropractic.

Chiropractic care is based on the concept that restricted movement in the spine can lead to pain, and that spinal adjustment and manipulation can increase mobility and, as a result, decrease back pain. Chiropractors also use massage to relax muscles that are shortened or in spasm. Many use additional treatments as well, such as ultrasound, electrical muscle stimulation, and exercise.

Massage therapy.

In addition to relaxing muscles, massage increases blood flow—which brings oxygen to aching areas to speed recovery—and boosts endorphins, which have pain-relieving properties. Hill Physicians members receive a 15 percent discount on massage therapy with certain providers. Find a massage therapist near you.

Acupuncture.

While recent studies have found that even “fake” acupuncture works to heal back pain (researchers at the Seattle-based Group Health Center for Health Studies reported that back-pain sufferers who received simulated acupuncture with toothpicks got just as much relief as those who received traditional needle acupuncture), evidence also shows that acupuncture can help block pain signals to the brain. The important thing to keep in mind, however, is that studies have found that back-pain sufferers who receive acupuncture report feeling better than people who receive standard medical treatment.

Rolfing.

This form of bodywork is based on the idea that our fascia—the soft connective tissue that surrounds muscles, bones, and nerves—stiffens and shortens for a host of reasons, including poor posture, injury, and even psychological stress. Using their elbows, knuckles, and fingers, Rolfers deeply massage the body, releasing myofascial tension and retraining the fascia to elongate instead of shorten, which leads to improved posture and less pain.

Psychotherapy.

Psychologists, psychiatrists, and psychotherapists use any number of modalities, including visualization, hypnosis, and talk therapy, to help clients confront—and better manage—emotional stress and repressed emotions. A 2007 review published in the journal Health Psychology found that psychological interventions ease pain intensity, improve quality of life, and reduce symptoms of depression in those suffering from chronic low-back pain.

Physical therapy.

This is the most common treatment for back pain for good reason: According to a new review article published in the Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, a combination of physical therapy and anti-inflammatories is the most effective treatment for low-back pain. Physical therapists often use ultrasound, electrical muscle stimulation, joint mobilization, and massage to help calm acute muscle spasms. As pain improves, they may integrate more active therapies like manipulated stretching and exercise instruction.

Yoga can be a powerful tool for healing, but a bum back calls for special precautions.

Reprinted with permission from the November/December 2009 issue of Natural Solutions magazine, published by InnoVision Health Media Inc.

Integrative Therapies Available to Hill Physicians Members

Discounted Massage Services for Hill Physicians Members

Discounted Yoga Classes for Hill Physicians Members

Acupuncture and Chiropractic Care for Hill Physicians Members

Some, but not all, Hill Physicians members have acupuncture and/or chiropractic benefits. Contact your health plan to determine your eligibility and how to locate a contracted provider. In limited circumstances, Hill Physicians will authorize a trial of acupuncture or chiropractic care for members without a health plan benefit upon physician request.