A TENS unit is quite effective in self-treatment. These small electric shock pulsers can "fool" the brain from which all pain is registered. Harmless and with no side-effects when used as instructed at the site of the pain (lower or upper back) A unit may be acquired from a practicing physical or massage therapist or doctor (chiropractor or physician) as well as online from medical suppliers or from catalogs dealing with products for the aging and disabled at a cost of $65 -$100 depending on the number of attachments. I have used my TENS unit to treat my sciatica (back pain) and TMJ (jaw neuralgia). Settings must be adjusted to the individual condition, strength of shock, and length of treatment. DesertRose43View Thread