Back Pain Medications
January 2, 2008 by soreback · Comments Off
MEDICATIONS AVAILABLE FOR CHRONIC BACK PAIN
Maybe you’ve tried everything else and are ready for some medications or are considering surgery for back pain. Your doctor is no doubt rushed and busy helping other patients and many doctors don’t take the time anyway to explain different medication options and how they work exactly, so we’re going to cover those here. We’ll also discuss the common surgeries for back problems so that you have a better understanding of what’s involved and can make an informed decision overall.
NSAIDS
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reduce swelling in any area of the body and are often used to treat muscle spasms and irritation in the area of the back. They work by blocking proteins and enzymes in the body that cause swelling.
They are often thought to be the most effective treatment option. NSAIDs include:
- Bayer, Bufferin – aspirin
- Advil, Motrin – ibuprofen
- Aleve, Anaprox – naproxen sodium
- Lodine – etodolac
- Relafen – nabumetone
- Feldene – piroxicam
- Disalcid, Salsitab – salsalate
Common side effects
Most who take NSAIDs experience upset stomach, heartburn, ulcers, skin rashes, some swelling of the face or legs, and a decrease in the amount of urine.
EPIDURAL INJECTIONS
Women in labor often get epidural injections; this is meant to numb the area of the spinal column that is receiving the pain signals from her contractions. In the same way some who get chronic back pain find that epidural injections are helpful for their condition. The epidural numbs the area of the body where there is pain and helps the muscles to relax and loosen, and the patient to resume normal activities which in turn also help to alleviate pain.
These injections can be done by an orthopedist, an anesthesiologist, a neurologist, a physiatrist, a pain management specialist, or a rheumatologist.
Epidural injections can be expensive and need to be done properly. They can also be a bit painful themselves, but those who have them regularly report consistent relief from their back problems.
Possible side effects.
Some who are very sensitive to injections may experience swelling at the injection site. Rarely do patients experience infection, headache and fever, although these have been reported.