If you suffer from lower back pain, the Harvard Health Blog reminds you of a recent study which determined that pain-relief medication (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen) is not an effective treatment for the condition. Moreover, “new recommendations take that conclusion even further: it may be best to avoid medications altogether — at least at the start.”
The Harvard blog says:
For new low back pain (lasting less than 12 weeks), try:
- heat
- massage
- acupuncture
- spinal manipulation, as with chiropractic care.
If these don’t work, NSAIDs or a muscle relaxant are reasonable options. But given their potential to cause side effects and their modest benefit, they aren’t the first choice.
For chronic low back pain (lasting 12 weeks or more), try:
- exercise (including stretching, improving balance, and strengthening core muscles)
- physical therapy
- acupuncture
- mindfulness-based programs intended to cope with or reduce stress.
Other approaches, such as tai chi, yoga, or progressive relaxation techniques may also be helpful.
If these don’t work, treatment with NSAIDs, tramadol, or duloxetine is worth consideration. However, opioids should be considered only if other measures have failed and only after a thorough review of potential benefits and risks with your doctor.
The blog adds: “It’s important to emphasize these suggestions are for low back pain that might begin after an unusually strenuous workout or shoveling snow.” Back pain can also result from serious injury or illness, and in those cases, you should seek medical care.