I have had upper back and neck pain off and on for several months. Nothing the doctor has given me has helped. Should I try something else like acupuncture or massage?

Many patients are turning to alternative treatment for a wide variety of problems. This approach has become very popular for neck and back pain, as well as other conditions such as cancer.

The three most common forms of alternative care for neck and back pain include chiropractic, massage, and relaxation. Patients report that these methods are “very helpful.”

Be prepared to pay out-of-pocket if your insurance company doesn’t cover these types of services. Other alternatives include prayer or spiritual healing by others, biofeedback, hypnosis, imagery, and herbs.