Many people with chronic pain want to avoid surgery, and there are a variety of effective non-surgical treatment options that can provide relief and improve function. These treatments focus on reducing pain, improving mobility, and addressing the underlying causes of discomfort.

Physical therapy (PT) is one of the most effective first-line treatments. Research shows that targeted exercises, stretching, and posture correction can reduce pain and prevent further injury. PT is especially helpful for back pain, arthritis, and nerve-related pain. Medications can help manage pain, but they are typically used alongside other treatments.

Anti-inflammatory drugs, muscle relaxants, nerve pain medications, and topical treatments can provide relief, while opioids are generally reserved for short-term use in severe cases. Interventional pain procedures can provide longer-lasting relief.

These include epidural steroid injections, nerve blocks, and radiofrequency ablation (RFA), which target specific pain sources and reduce inflammation. Neuromodulation therapies, such as spinal cord stimulation (SCS), dorsal root ganglion (DRG) stimulation, and peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS), are effective for certain types of chronic pain.

These treatments use electrical signals to alter pain perception, helping patients with nerve pain, post-surgical pain, or failed back surgery syndrome. Regenerative medicine, including platelet-rich plasma (PRP) and stem cell therapy, is an emerging option for pain relief. Studies suggest these therapies may help repair tissue damage and reduce inflammation in arthritis, tendon injuries, and spinal disc degeneration.

Lifestyle changes, such as weight management, stress reduction, and an anti-inflammatory diet, can also play a key role in managing pain. Combining multiple non-surgical treatments often leads to the best long-term results.If chronic pain persists, talk to your doctor about non-surgical treatment options that can help improve your quality of life and restore function.