Which treatment is often included in conservative management for back pain?

Physical therapy is a key component of conservative management for back pain. It focuses on improving mobility, strength, and flexibility, which are essential for recovery and prevention of future episodes of back pain. This treatment typically involves a range of techniques including exercises, stretches, and manual therapy, tailored to the individual's specific needs. The goal is to decrease pain, enhance function, and educate patients on proper body mechanics and ergonomics, which can help in self-management of their condition.

In contrast, surgical intervention, opioid medication, and radiation therapy are generally considered more aggressive treatments. Surgical intervention is usually reserved for cases where conservative measures have failed, and there is a clear indication for surgery. Opioid medication, while it may provide pain relief, does not address the root cause of back pain and has a risk of dependency. Radiation therapy is typically not utilized for back pain management unless there are specific circumstances, such as cancer.