Physical Therapy vs. Medications: The Better Solution for Back Pain
A very common health-related problem, back pain is said to affect people of all ages. In USA, almost two-thirds of the population is facing back pain. This is significantly more so among females, in rural population categories, and among the elementary workers (PubMed). The figure shows the globally affected population by low back pain, which was around 619 million in 2020 and is expected to rise to 843 million by 2050 (WHO). When you experience discomfort for more than a few days, should you take medications or go for PT Therapy? Which of the methods works better for long-term relief and even for treating pain at its best? Let’s examine both short-term and long-term advantages and disadvantages of both options.
Physical Therapy vs. Medications
The proper treatment for persistent back pain is very important. Some people would prefer medications, looking for immediate relief, while others would prefer physical therapy, which solves problems for the long term. But which approach really takes the cake? A comparison may assist in deciding if physical therapy or medications are better suited for back pain management, and some considerations relating to both shall be surveyed.
Medications for Back Pain
First and foremost, pain relief medicines provide quick, short-term relief via the lowering of inflammation (for example, ibuprofen or any such medicine does this). When the pain involves muscle spasm, a doctor may prescribe certain muscle relaxants or even opioids. While effective for a while, medications and drugs do not deal with the recognized medical condition leading to back pain. Prolonged use of pain medications can lead to side effects, including dependence, gastroenteritis, and liver or kidney injuries.
Physical Therapy for Back Pain
Physical therapy specializes in revitalizing the range of motion and improving muscle coordination while building them stronger. A licensed physical therapist formulates a patient’s tailored treatment plan across exercises and stretches, along with posture correction and manual therapy modalities. Physical therapy is the one for long-term pain relief; it is one of the best options for back pain because of its gradual effect. Therapy cures and prevents the development of future pain conditions.
Which one is the better solution?
There are long-term improvements in controlling back pain through physical therapy; medicines are usually just temporary. Physical therapy teaches patients how to exercise, modify their lifestyles, and regain strength and condition without drugs. This is a better, safer, and more sustainable source of empowerment for individuals to take health into their own hands.
For example, a 40-year-old office worker suffers from chronic lower back pain caused by prolonged sitting, so he takes painkillers for quick relief. Well, after undergoing physical therapy for core strengthening as well as correcting posture, he improved significantly and has reduced pain, making the medication unnecessary.
Conclusion
Back pain can become a problem in almost every aspect of your life, so finding a solution is essential. Are you treating it with medication for immediate relief, or do you want a long-term answer that addresses the actual cause? Medications can relieve pain for a few hours, but physical therapy can help build strength, flexibility, and function so you can regain movement without further reliance on pain medication. Beyond pain relief, physical therapy improves posture, helps to prevent future injuries, and simply makes things easier to do. At UNIQ Physical Therapy, we develop customized rehabilitation programs with one goal: pain relief that will stand the test of time.
Take control of your pain today; have an appointment and begin on the journey to a healthier back!
