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Apart from treating and relieving back pain, it is also important to identify factors that may predispose that person to having back pain. A management programme should then be set up in order to aid recovery and prevent or reduce the risk of further problems. There are many forms of treatment for back pain. When back pain is acute Most cases of acute back pain can be treated by combining medication and self-care techniques. Medication The most commonly recommended pain killer as the first treatment to try for acute backache is paracetamol. However often non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen can also be used. There are also stronger pain killing drugs such as codeine or tramadol, these have an opiate base. Also if there are muscle spasms it is common to be given prescribed a short course of a muscle relaxant, such as diazepam. However many of these drugs have a range of side effects. You can help yourself by following these Self-care principles: Although acute back pain can be frustrating to live with, it is important to try to remain positive, as research has shown that a positive attitude aids recovery, and is then less likely to become chronic. It is also important to remain as active as possible, and not bed rest. Try to maintain a normal level of daily activities, but if it is too painful reduce the level or do it more slowly. Aim to do a little more each day. Try not to just sit around all the time as this can sometimes make things worse. Many people find that using either hot or cold compression packs helps to reduce pain. Cold compresses can be made by using a bag of frozen food wrapped in a towel. Hot compression packs are often available from larger pharmacies, or the use of a wheat bag . You may find it useful to use one type of pack after the other. The use of a cushion beneath your knees when you are sleeping on your side, or using several firm pillows to prop up your knees when lying on your back, may help to ease your symptoms. |
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Non Medication Route – Treatment Available to Help Ease The Pain
There are many other routes other than medication for back pain. Apart from treating and relieving back pain, it is also important to identify factors that may predispose that person to having back pain. A management programme should then be set up in order to aid recovery and prevent or reduce the risk of further problems.
It is now recommended that in order to prevent the back pain becoming chronic that early intervention is advisable, that is, 'after a week or two',[1] NICE guidelines recommend manipulative therapy, either physiotherapy, osteopathy or chiropractic. Similarly this guideline also recommends a course of exercise rehabilitation from either physiotherapy, osteopathy or chiropractic. Acupuncture can also be helpful for easing low back pain.
Finally there is the surgical route.
Also see chronic back pain.
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References:
[1] NICE Guidelines Low Back Pain and Sciatica NG59