Knowing Your Low Back Pain Treatment

A sharp, persistent or dull pain felt below the waist is the common symptom of low back pain.

It is normally caused by muscle strain connected to heavy physical work, lifting or forceful movement. It might also be caused by bending or twisting or being in one position for a longer period. Any of these can intensify previous or existing back disorder.

There is a wide variety of low back pain treatment. It depends on what causes it and how long it lasts. There is also a big chance that your low back pain will go away after some basic self-care treatment.

Most basic low back pain treatment

• Recently developed low back pain can be treated by staying active rather than taking bed rest.
• You can consider taking over the counter pain medicines like
  • Acetaminophen (example: Tylenol)
  • Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like Ibuprofen and Naproxen
• Ask your doctor or physical therapist on how to manage your low back treatment like how to manage the back pain or the activities you can and cannot do.
• If you have had low back pain once, it is likely to come back. To avoid further problems, it is advised that:
  • You keep your back and stomach muscles strong
  • You maintain a good posture
  • You learn the proper way to lift heavy objects
  • You learn to manage stress.

Low back pain treatment for back pain which lasted for more than 3 months

• Seek a professional advice on programs that will combine strengthening exercise with activities to help you increase your function and manage your pain effectively.
• Surgery is rarely a resort for low back treatment.
• Rest in a comfortable position. Do not stay in one position for longer periods
• Take pain medicine if needed. In taking these pain medicines, you should take it on a regular schedule rather than waiting for the pain to be unbearable.
• Try using a heating pad on a low or medium setting or an ice pack for 15 to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours. You may also want to try switching between them.
• Getting back to normal activities is probably the best low back pain treatment after resting and medication. Movement helps the muscles stay strong and staying in bed for more than a day or two can actually worsen your problem.
• Your doctor or physical therapist can recommend specific exercises to help you back in shape and decrease your chance of injury.

Low back treatment for pain which continues beyond 3 months

• Seek out a medical treatment. Doctors may suggest any of the following medications: acetaminophen, muscle relaxants, antidepressants, and anesthetic or corticosteroid injections.
• Seek counseling treatment to help you avoid a cycle of sleeplessness, inactivity, irritability and depression which may cause more pain.
• Seek your physical therapist’s advice on exercises and activities to increase your activities.
• Consider undergoing low back massages.