Low back injuries and degenerative changes are among the most common causes of back pain. Without appropriate treatment, back pain may be disruptive enough to lead to long-term disability. Addressing the problem when it is in the earlier stages, and possibly easier to manage, may give you a better chance at regaining control over the problem.
Medications
With more concerns over the use of opioids, other classes of medications are used more often to manage low back pain. The type of medication that may be most effective will depend on the underlying cause of pain. NSAIDs can reduce inflammation, which may result from an injury or issues with degenerative arthritis in the spine. Muscle relaxers may also be appropriate if tightness in the muscles or muscle spasms are causing or exacerbating pain in the lower back. Some people may be prescribed medications for neuropathic pain, such as gabapentin, if their back problem contributes to nerve pain.
Hot/Cold Therapy
Regular hot and/or cold therapy is something you can do quickly to help with back pain and it may be an ongoing way to manage pain. Cold tends to be more effective for acute injuries and those that are caused by inflammatory processes. Even after an acute back injury, you will find cold may not be effective after the first day, and switching to heat is more soothing. Hot therapy, such as a heating pad, can be more comfortable for issues involving the muscles or arthritic pain. Heat has a natural tendency to help the muscles relax and prevent additional compression that occurs when your muscles are tense. Some people find they need to alternate between cold and heat for this to be effective. Eventually, you may be able to anticipate what type of pain will respond to different types of temperature therapy.
Gentle Exercises
If you have any acute or chronic back problem, it is best to speak with a physical therapist before attempting any form of exercise. The goal is to improve the problem or at least prevent exacerbation of the issue. Trying different exercises without guidance might make the problem worse or lead to a worse back injury. Generally, different types of stretching exercises are recommending for low back pain. Sometimes, exercises that stretch the back muscles can prevent them from becoming tense and eventually spasming. Gentle exercises to build strength in the abdomen and legs can also be helpful for back pain since these muscles may be used to take some of the burden off a weak back.
Addressing back pain now will make it easier to find an effective strategy. For low back pain, a combination of different pain management approaches will give you the best chance at relief. Contact a provider, like Wayne Isaacson MD, for more help.