Treatment of Acute Low Back Pain

Treatment of Acute Low Back Pain

Ty
And, we’re back with Dr. O’Connor, talking about acute low back pain. Now, Doctor, what can you tell us about the treatment of this condition?

Dr. O’Connor
Well, Ty, for years it was thought that bed rest was an appropriate treatment for acute low back pain. People would often stay in bed for more than just a few days and dramatically reduce or even stop their normal activities. Unfortunately, this lack of activity often increases stiffness, which can contribute to pain and prolong recovery.

Ty
Hmmm. That makes sense.

Dr. O’Connor
It does. And not only that, people who had prolonged periods of rest found that their muscles got weaker, they got depressed, and the pain often got worse, and it was harder and harder to get up and get going again.

Ty
I see. Then what should someone do if they have acute low back pain?

Dr. O’Connor
Well, Ty, we now realize that more than a day or two of rest can actually increase acute back pain. So staying in bed for more than just a few days can make you stiff and weaken the muscles that support your back. Some movement is necessary to heal properly. It’s okay to limit activity for a short time, but it’s so important to get up and get moving as soon as possible.

Ty
So, Dr. O'Connor, what medications are used to relieve the symptoms of acute lower back pain?

Dr. O’Connor
Well, over the counter pain medications, such as acetaminophen, and non-steroidal medications, like ibuprofen and naprosyn, can help many people. In other cases, prescription medications such as pain relievers and muscle relaxants can also help ease the discomfort of acute back pain.

You know, it’s important to note that over the counter medications can interact with other medicines, nutritional supplements, and herbal remedies. So be sure to talk with your health care provider or pharmacist about all of the medications that you are currently taking. And, also be sure to take all medications as directed.

Ty
Good point. Now, next question - - how long should someone take pain medications to treat acute back pain?

Dr. O’Connor
Well, usually a few days is all the time that is needed, but some people might need to stay on them for a week or two. The good news is that most people will not need anything stronger than over the counter medications to treat acute back pain.

Ty
So it sounds like keeping active and using pain medication properly certainly can help. Can you suggest any other strategies to help reduce acute low back pain?

Dr. O’Connor
Well, you bet. In some cases, the application of heat has been show to help with back pain and relax tense muscles. Try taking a warm bath or shower, or applying a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel to the sore area. Apply moist heat for 15 to 20 minutes, 2 or 3 times a day. However, don’t use heat if you injured your back in a fall, or if the heat increases your symptoms.

Ty
What about spinal manipulation to help with acute back pain?

Dr. O’Connor
You know, this option can be helpful to some people, Ty. Spinal manipulation, when performed by a qualified professional such as a chiropractor or an osteopath, can offer relief of acute back pain. Your physician’s staff can often provide a list of qualified practitioners in your area.

You may have heard about other treatments that can be used with back pain, such as massage therapy, acupuncture or yoga. Current recommendations don’t include these for acute conditions, however some of these treatments are used for chronic back pain with good success. You can find more information about these treatments in the chronic back pain treatment section of this program.

Fortunately acute back pain from an injury like a strain will usually resolve on its own. The most important things are to keep a positive attitude, get moving as soon as possible, and get plenty of exercise both before and after back pain starts.

Ty
Good advice. We’ll be back after a short break.