Acute vs. Chronic
There is a distinct physiological difference between acute and chronic back pain. Different treatment modalities are utilized for these two different conditions.
The initial pain experienced after an injury has occurred is classified as acute pain. Normally, the body will automatically begin healing itself. Generally, the goals of treating an acute injury focus on treating the pain symptoms to make the patient more comfortable and protecting the injured area. Passive modalities such as hot or cold packs, ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and massage are often used. For a more complete explanation of the treatment of acute back pain, refer to "Understanding Acute Low Back Problems," produced by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (to order call 800-358-9295).
If pain persists longer than 8 to 12 weeks after an injury, the condition becomes chronic and a different treatment approach should be considered.
For the treatment of chronic back pain, there are a number of options to consider, including surgery but studies show that the most effective and cost-effective method is an aggressive, sports medicine approach (‘Sports Medicine for Working People,’ Vert Mooney, M.D., Occupational Back Injury, Pain Management, Jan/Feb, 1992, p40-45) that is designed to restore functional capacity. One successful treatment option is the Med-x Rehabilitation Program.
Add at later date: journal ORTHOPEDICS article by Dr. Brian Nelson
Studies conducted at the medical schools at both the University of California, San Diego and the University of Florida, Gainesville document the success of the Med-x rehabilitation program for the treatment of chronic back pain.
© Exermend, Inc.2002