There are different types of treatment options available for low back pain. Depending upon the cause and nature of pain, you should select the appropriate option. Generally, in many cases, back pain alleviates within a few days of home care and bed rest. On the other hand, sometimes it has to be cured with medication, treatment and physical therapy. In some severe cases, surgery might also be needed. Each treatment is different from the other.
Some of the most common low back pain treatments that are safe have been explained below:
Medications
The most common medications that are helpful in treating low back pain are NSAIDs (non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs). They greatly reduce pain by curing inflammation. NSAIDs available over the counter include ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen etc. If the patient develops gastrointestinal problems by taking oral NSAIDs, then some topical NSAIDs such as gels and creams are also available. Also prescribed are Cortisone injections that are used to decrease inflammation around the nerve roots.
Transcutaneous Electric Nerve Stimulation (TENS)
TENS provides pulses of electrical stimulation through a battery operated device. A mild electrical current is produced through the device which is sent to the affected part to prevent the pain signals from reaching the brain.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is also an effective healer for low back pain – acute as well as chronic. An acupuncture needle is inserted into a contracted muscle to relax it. This also reduces the inflammation of the nerves, thereby reducing the pain. The therapists use thin disposable needles for this therapy.
Surgery
Surgery is seldom chosen for acute low back pain unless in case of sciatica or the cauda equina syndrome. It can also be recommended to people with progressive nerve problems caused by herniated discs. Some of the types of back surgery are Laminectormy (this involves removing protruding disc fragments from the spinal cord), Intradiscal electrothermal therapy (a heated needle is inserted into the disk to seal the disk wall, thereby reducing the spinal nerve irritation), Fusion (involves joining two vertebrae) and Artificial disc replacement.
Chiropractic Care
When the back pain is due to disc injury, the most commonly used treatment is Chiropractic care. This treatment is based on the concept that restricted movement in the spine may cause pain and reduce its function. Spinal manipulation (Chiropractic adjustment) is one form of therapy that chiropractors use to cure restricted spinal mobility. This is done by applying a controlled and sudden force with hands to an affected joint, thereby regularizing its normal movement.
Physical Therapy
Physical therapy or PT includes an exercise program that is performed under the supervision of a professional who understands the limitations and requirements of people suffering from low back pain.
Exercises
Exercise is very essential for speedy recovery of low back pain. It helps to stretch and tone the core muscles that provide support to the back. Any form of exercise such as Yoga, core strengthening exercises or light aerobic exercises can be done to help increase the flexibility and strength of these core muscles.
Apart from these treatments, doctors generally recommend people to resume normal daily routine as soon as possible. Do not panic! Low back pain can be easily cured with the proper treatment. Deal with it patiently.