Complimentary & Alternative Medicine- Emergency Medicine: Because of the spines relationship with the nervous system severe spinal pain can be a symptom of many life threatening conditions. After any severe injury to the spine, or if symptoms become alarming, you should go to the emergency room immediately.
Traditional Medicine: After examination most doctors will prescribe medication. Because the spine is so complicated they will next refer you to an orthopedic surgeon or neurosurgeon. If you do not require surgery they refer you to a physical therapist. The physical therapist's skill and facility will determine the course of therapy.
Chiropractic: As a trained physician they specialize in treating the spine. Chiropractors have varying degrees of skill and some offer a wide variety of therapies. Chiropractors treat the bio-mechanics of the spine by correctively adjusting the segments of the spine back into their proper alignment. Many chiropractors will also use a variety of physiotherapy equipment such as electrical muscle stimulation, heat, massage, ultrasound, traction, exercise instruction, ergonomic changes in the activities of daily living and many other considerations.
Acupuncture: Acupuncturist have varying degrees of training and skill. It is important to get a referral. Acupuncturist use needles to balance the bodies energy systems and treat pain. They also use herbal preparations and Tui Na (a form of specialized massage). The acupuncturist seeks to balance the body and bring harmony.
Massage: Conditions of the spine can cause muscle spasm and imbalance. Massage helps to temporarily relieve these symptoms.

Many patients find themselves using all of these treatments or parts of each. Don’t give up on a type of therapy until you are sure. Practitioners have varying degrees of skill. Being a good doctor is an art and some are better than others.