Low Back Pain

Medications are prescribed based on the type of back pain you have. They may include:

– **Anti-inflammatory drugs:** Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as naproxen sodium (Aleve) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) can be helpful. Use these medications only as directed, as overuse can lead to severe side effects. If over-the-counter options aren’t effective, your doctor might prescribe stronger NSAIDs.

– **Muscle relaxants:** If anti-inflammatories don’t relieve mild to moderate back pain, muscle relaxants might be recommended. These medications can cause drowsiness and dizziness.

– **Topical analgesics:** These treatments, such as ointments, creams, salves, and patches, provide pain relief by penetrating the skin.

– **Opioids:** Medications containing opioids, such as hydrocodone or oxycodone, may be prescribed for short-term use under strict medical supervision.

– **Antidepressants:** Certain types of antidepressants, like duloxetine (Cymbalta) and tricyclic antidepressants such as amitriptyline or nortriptyline, have been shown to relieve chronic back pain.

A physical therapist can teach you exercises to strengthen your stomach and back muscles, improve flexibility, and correct posture. Regular use of these techniques can help prevent pain from recurring. Physical therapists will also show you how to modify your movements during a back pain episode, allowing you to stay active without worsening the pain.

**Surgical and Additional Techniques**

Treatment options for back pain may include:

– **Cortisone Injections**: If previous treatments haven’t relieved leg pain, a cortisone injection combined with a numbing agent may be helpful. This injection targets the area around the spinal cord and nerve roots, reducing inflammation and providing pain relief that can last for a month or two.

– **Radiofrequency Ablation**: This procedure involves inserting a small needle near the painful area. Radiofrequency waves are then sent through the needle to damage the surrounding nerves, which prevents pain signals from reaching the brain.

– **Implanted Spinal Cord Stimulators**: Devices implanted under the skin can send electrical impulses to specific nerves, blocking pain signals.

– **Surgery**: For patients experiencing progressive muscle weakness or lower limb pain, surgery may be needed to increase the space in the spine. This is often required for conditions like herniated discs or other issues that narrow the spinal openings.