Top 5 Non-Surgical Pain Relief Options That Actually Work

If you’re dealing with chronic pain, you’ve probably asked yourself:
“Is there anything I can do to relieve this without surgery?”

The answer is yes — and at Keystone Pain Consultants, with convenient offices in Pittsburgh (Bower Hill) and Washington, PA, we specialize in non-surgical pain relief solutions that are both effective and backed by science.

In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the Top 5 Non-Surgical Pain Treatments we offer, when they’re used, and how they can help you get back to the life you want — without going under the knife.

Why Consider Non-Surgical Pain Relief?

For many people with back pain, neck pain, sciatica, arthritis, or joint pain, surgery is not the only option. In fact, major institutions like Cleveland Clinic and Johns Hopkins recommend interventional pain management as a first-line approach before considering surgery.

Non-surgical options are ideal for:

• Chronic pain that doesn’t respond to physical therapy
  
• Post-surgical pain that lingers
  
• Pain from arthritis, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, or sciatica
  
• Patients looking for fast relief without long recovery times

1. Epidural Steroid Injections (ESIs)

Best for: Herniated discs, spinal stenosis, sciatica, chronic lower back or neck pain

How it works:
This minimally invasive procedure delivers anti-inflammatory medication directly into the epidural space around the spinal nerves. It reduces inflammation and relieves pressure from nerve compression.

Results: Many patients experience weeks to months of pain relief. This can allow you to participate in physical therapy more effectively or avoid surgery altogether.

📍 Available at both our Pittsburgh and Washington, PA locations

🔗 Learn more about Epidural Steroid Injections

2. Nerve Blocks

Best for: Localized nerve pain, post-surgical pain, migraines, or complex regional pain syndrome (CRPS)

How it works:
A local anesthetic (sometimes combined with steroids) is injected near specific nerves to block pain signals.

Results: Nerve blocks can provide temporary to long-term relief, depending on the condition. They can also be diagnostic to help pinpoint where the pain is coming from.

Fun fact: According to the American Society of Regional Anesthesia, nerve blocks are an essential part of modern pain management.

3. Spinal Cord Stimulation (SCS)

Best for: Chronic back or limb pain, failed back surgery syndrome, complex nerve pain

How it works:
A small device is implanted under the skin that sends mild electrical pulses to the spinal cord. These pulses interfere with the pain signals before they reach the brain.

Results: Spinal Cord Stimulation can significantly reduce pain without medication. Patients can try a temporary trial before deciding on a permanent implant.

🔗 Learn more about Spinal Cord Stimulation

4. Kyphoplasty

Best for: Spinal compression fractures caused by osteoporosis or trauma

How it works:
This non-surgical, minimally invasive procedure stabilizes fractured vertebrae with a small balloon and bone cement. It’s typically done under local anesthesia and can provide immediate pain relief.

Results: Improved mobility, restored vertebral height, and dramatic pain reduction.

5. Trigger Point Injections

Best for: Muscle pain (especially in the neck, shoulders, or lower back), tension headaches, fibromyalgia

How it works:
A local anesthetic is injected directly into muscle “knots” or trigger points that are causing referred pain. This allows the muscles to relax and release built-up tension.

Results: Immediate relief for many patients, especially when combined with stretching or physical therapy.

Bonus Option: Physical Therapy Collaboration

While we don’t provide PT in-house, our team regularly partners with trusted physical therapists in Pittsburgh and Washington, PA. Our goal is to provide integrated, whole-body pain management — combining non-surgical procedures with movement-based recovery when appropriate.

Ready to Avoid Surgery and Start Feeling Better?

If you’re looking for non-surgical pain relief in Pittsburgh or Washington, PA, our experienced, board-certified team is here to help.

📞 Call us today at 724-969-0191 or
➡️ Request an Appointment Online

Let’s find a solution that works — without surgery.