The simplest method for treating low back pain may actually be the best, according to a review article published in the February 2009 issue of The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. The authors found that for most cases of lumbar degenerative disk disease, the most effective treatment is a combination of physical therapy and anti-inflammatory medication. According to the findings, 90 percent of patients with low back pain will see their symptoms fade on their own within three months, and most of those patients will recover within six weeks. Commenting on the article, Santhosh A. Thomas, DO, MBA, medical director of Cleveland Clinics Westlake Spine Center, observes, "Its well established that most low back pain resolves without surgery. But that doesnt mean you dont have to do anything, or that the pain is necessarily caused by a degenerative disk. Other factors can cause low back pain. And if the pain isnt treated-by physical therapy, anti-inflammatory medications, or other methods-you may end up with heightened blood pressure or a diminished capacity to engage in daily activities."
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