If you have chronic back pain, there may be effective treatments besides surgery that may help, depending on your particular condition. It’s important to see your doctor and discuss the options.
Cleveland Clinic is a non-profit academic medical center. Advertising on our site helps support our mission. We do not endorse non-Cleveland Clinic products or services. Policy
Robin Jackson had chronic pain originating in her lower back, traveling down her left leg and into her foot. She was diagnosed with sciatica, typically the result of an irritated nerve in the spinal column.
Teresa Dews, MD, Vice Chair, Department of Pain Management, and Medical Director of Cleveland Clinic’s Pain Management Center at Hillcrest Hospital, treated her with epidural steroid injections, which can also be used to treat other types of pain. “Steroids are a strong anti-inflammatory agent — injecting them close to a nerve helps to temporarily reduce back and leg pain,” Dr. Dews says.
But within a few years, the pain returned with a vengeance. “The pain was so bad, it felt like a charley horse gone nuclear,” Mrs. Jackson says. This time, in addition to sciatica, Dr. Dews diagnosed Mrs. Jackson with a disk herniation with some nerve compression.
Treatment came in the form of three epidural steroid injections, given two weeks apart, and these, provided significant relief.
“Robin underwent a very dramatic transformation for a very common condition,” says Dr. Dews. “She is very typical of the type of patient we want to see, treat appropriately, and help return to their active daily lives.”
Just one day after her first injection, Mrs. Jackson participated in a yoga class offered at her workplace. She continues to do yoga two times each week. She takes only over-the-counter pain medication on occasion, and she uses care when bending over, tying her shoes and picking things up.
At some point in their lives, eight out of 10 Americans will suffer from back pain. While it is not possible to prevent all back pain or injury, here are some things you can do to keep your back healthy:
Pick specific, measurable goals, but also be open to changing them if need be
From nausea, weight gain and eczema, stress can affect your immune system in many ways
Research consistently shows that soy-based foods do not increase cancer risk
Changing your wardrobe or environment won’t eliminate eczema, but it can help reduce flares
Breathwork, sleep mediatation and avoiding screens can help fight back morning anxiety
Chilblain-like skin lesions and rashes probably aren’t COVID related
This supplement may help with regulating cortisol levels, which may help with stress
Developmental changes like puberty and menopause can impact symptom severity
Coffee won’t cure a hangover and you definitely shouldn’t mix your cocktail with an energy drink
Focus on the philosophy — replenishing and respecting your skin — not necessarily the steps
This social media sleep hack with tart cherry juice and magnesium could be worth a try