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Published on: 8/20/2026

What treatments are available for chronic lower back pain?

Yoshinori Abe

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Chronic lower back pain is typically managed with a combination of treatments rather than a single fix. Common approaches include:

  • Exercise and physical therapy to strengthen core and back muscles
  • Medications such as NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, or nerve pain relievers
  • Complementary therapies like acupuncture, massage, or spinal manipulation
  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) to help manage pain perception and stress

Because lower back pain can stem from many causes—muscle strain, herniated discs, arthritis, nerve compression, or underlying conditions—the right treatment depends on the source. Identifying possible causes early can help you avoid unnecessary trial-and-error and get to relief faster. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to better understand what may be driving your pain and what steps to consider next.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/15/2026

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Explanation

Chronic lower back pain is a common issue and there are many ways to help manage it.

Treatment Options:

  1. Exercise: Regular physical activity, including stretching and strengthening exercises, can help reduce pain and improve function.
  2. Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers, like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, can be used. Sometimes, doctors may prescribe stronger medications if needed.
  3. Therapies:
  • Physical Therapy: A therapist can teach you exercises to strengthen your back muscles.
  • Acupuncture: Some people find relief from this traditional Chinese medicine technique.
  • Cognitive-Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This can help you manage pain by changing how you think about it.
  1. Lifestyle Changes: Maintaining a healthy weight and quitting smoking can also help reduce back pain.

It's important to talk to a healthcare provider to find the best treatment plan for you. If you're experiencing back pain and want to better understand your symptoms, try our free AI symptom checker to help identify possible causes and determine if you should seek medical care.

(References)

  • Maharty DC, Hines SC, & Brown RB. (2024). Chronic Low Back Pain in Adults: Evaluation and .... American family physician, 38574213.

  • Mauck MC, Aylward AF, Barton CE, Birckhead B, Carey T, Dalton DM, et al. (2022). Evidence-based interventions to treat chronic low back pain. Pain reports, 36203645.

  • Shen FH, Samartzis D, & Andersson GB. (2006). Nonsurgical management of acute and chronic low back pain. The Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, 16885479.

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