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Alternative medicine

By Mayo Clinic staff

Many people choose hands-on therapies to ease their back pain:

  • Chiropractic care. Back pain is one of the most common reasons that people see a chiropractor. If you're considering chiropractic care, talk to your doctor about the most appropriate specialist for your type of problem. In addition to chiropractors, many osteopathic doctors and some physical therapists have training in spinal manipulation.
  • Acupuncture. Some people with low back pain report that acupuncture helps relieve their symptoms. The National Institutes of Health has found that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for some types of chronic pain. In acupuncture, the practitioner inserts sterilized stainless steel needles into the skin at specific points on the body.
  • Massage. If your back pain is caused by tense or overworked muscles, massage therapy may help loosen knotted muscles and promote relaxation.

DS00171

Feb. 8, 2008

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