Treatments for Back Pain

Back Pain is extremely common and one of the reasons people seek medical care. If you have ever experienced any form of back pain, you might be able to relate to just how painful and inconvenient the condition can be. It can easily disrupt your daily routine and potentially cause work-related stress.

Every year, over 65 million Americans suffer from some form of back pain. Fortunately, the recent advances in medical research and technology have opened up a wide range of treatment options for people who suffer from back pain.

Below are some of the more common Back pain treatment options you can choose from:

Medication Therapies

There is a wide variety of medications to choose from, including pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medications, and relaxants, which can ease muscle tension and spasms. Several of these drugs are available over the counter without needing a prescription. However, since some of these drugs may have side effects, it is advised that you consult your doctor before taking any of them. 
The drugs used for back pain treatment are classified as follows:
  • Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) – including aspirin, ibuprofen, Naproxen, Ketoprofen
  • COX-2 Inhibitors – such as celecoxib
  • Acetaminophen – Tylenol, Anacin-3, Phenaphen, Valadol, and other analgesic medications
  • Opioids – such as morphine and codeine
  • Muscle relaxants – cyclobenzaprine, Valium, carisoprodol, etc.
  • Chiropractic Manipulation  (Works Wonders)

    This form of back pain treatment
    requires manual manipulation by a chiropractor or
    other qualified health professional. The therapy is thought to help relieve
    back pain by taking pressure off sensitive neurological tissue, restoring blood
    flow, and increasing blood flow. In addition, chiropractic back pain treatment
    could trigger a series of chemical reactions in the body, releasing natural
    pain-killing hormones like endorphins.

    Epidural Injections

    This is another form of back pain treatment considered passive since the therapy is applied to the individual. In this method, steroids are injected into the spine. As the drugs travel through the entire spinal column, inflammation in the painful area is decreased, thus providing relief.

    Massage  ( My personal favorite)

    Massages are therapeutic back pain treatments that provide pain relief in the lower back. The manual manipulation of the muscles improves the blood flow, reducing muscle stiffness and increasing the range of motion. Sometimes, the massage may also trigger the body to release endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers.

    If you suffer from back pain, you might be able to get these massages billed to your insurance. A referrer from your primary care doctor might be required. Check with your insurance and see if you qualify for periodic massages.