Could These Back Pain “Cures” Leave You in MISERY?

‘Tis the season… for back pain.

If you’re suffering from chronic back pain, the holiday season isn’t going to do you any favors.

Between running around shopping, setting up your decorations, or even trying to keep up with the grandkids, this time of year can leave your balky back barking.

But if you’re thinking of trying some new treatment to finally fix your back problems for good, there’s something you should know.

Research is showing that some of the most popular back pain “cures” around do practically nothing… and could leave you in WORSE pain.

Here’s what to do instead.

A new study from McMaster University, published in The BMJ, exposed a harsh reality— and it’s about time.

Researchers analyzed 81 clinical trials with nearly 8,000 patients suffering from chronic spine pain.

The verdict?

• Epidural steroid injections—no better than a sham procedure.
• Nerve blocks—no real pain relief.
• Radiofrequency nerve ablation—minimal effect, if any.
• Intramuscular injections—some may even increase pain.

These are the very procedures that too many doctors are pushing right now. They’re costly, inconvenient, and come with risks… all for the promise of relief that never comes.

Meanwhile, there are some simple ways to help reduce your chronic pain without ever leaving your house – and without going near a needle or scalpel.

The first thing you need to do is maintain your strength and flexibility. I personally do yoga exercises daily.

I know yoga can be a little intimidating, especially if you have mobility issues. But there are plenty of “chair yoga” routines you can find online to get started.

I also swear by red light therapy – also known as photobiomodulation (PBM). It’s been shown to reduce pain and inflammation, and you can find plenty of devices online.

PBM can also be a great fix for helping you get more light during those dark winter months.

View Sources

Wang X, Martin G, Sadeghirad B, Chang Y, Florez I D, Couban R J et al. Common interventional procedures for chronic non-cancer spine pain: a systematic review and network meta-analysis of randomised trials BMJ 2025; 388 :e079971 doi:10.1136/bmj-2024-079971