What distinguishes surgical treatments from non-surgical treatments for spinal conditions?

The correct choice highlights that non-surgical treatments typically include methods such as physical therapy and medication. These treatments aim to manage symptoms, improve function, and promote healing without the need for invasive procedures. Non-surgical approaches are often the first line of treatment for many spinal conditions because they can be effective in reducing pain and improving mobility while minimizing risks associated with surgery.

Surgical treatments, on the other hand, are usually considered when non-surgical methods fail to provide sufficient relief or when there's a clear structural issue, such as a herniated disc or spinal stenosis, needing repair or decompression. This distinction illustrates the different strategies employed in treating spinal conditions, where non-surgical methods focus on conservative management and surgical methods are aimed at rectifying anatomical problems directly.

The other options are not accurate in representing the differences. Surgical treatments can be invasive rather than less invasive, they do directly address structural issues, and the effectiveness of treatments can vary widely based on the condition and individual factors, meaning non-surgical options are not always guaranteed to be more effective.