Choosing back pain medication largely depends on the kind of problem you have. Research has shown that no single medication eliminates or reduces pain better than another. You might have to try out a particular medication and if it does not suit you, then your doctor will have to prescribe an alternative.
Almost everyone has back pain at some point or the other. The best position for back pain relief is to lie on the floor flat on your back, with pillows under your knees, bend your hips and knees and keep your feet on a chair, or just with your hips and knees bent. This will take the pressure and weight off your back.
It is a common misconception that rest is best for a back ache but exercise is what your back really needs when it is hurt. Regular exercise stretches and strengthens the muscles that support your spine and also helps prevent further injury.
Regular yoga practice helps a great deal in relieving back pain and some feel that it is the most effective physical routine to relieve the tension and stress of back pain. Do keep in mind that not all yoga poses are beneficial and you should only do them with a certified yoga instructor. Back pain exercises like pelvic tilts or basic twists also help. The most common back bends are standing backward bend, Bridge pose, Sphinx pose, Upward Facing Do posture, Cobra pose and Cat pose.
Middle back pain treatment comprises of mainly conservative methods. Common causes of this pain are muscle sprains or strains, therefore rest is advised. Other methods include icing the injured area, anti-inflammatory medication, back supports, physical therapy, surgery (in very few cases), and chiropractic treatment.
Upper back pain treatment consists of -massage therapy, acupuncture, stretching and strengthening exercises, ice/heat therapy, physical therapy, and joint manipulation (by chiropractors).
Lower back pain treatment involves the following - exercises, heat applications, anti-inflammatory medication. At times, spine surgery or epidural steroid injections may also be given.
Ankylosing spondylitis back pain causes inflammation of the joints between the spine and pelvis and the joints between the spinal bones. In time, the affected bones fuse together. Symptoms are periodic low back pain, heel pain, hip pain and stiffness, joint pain along with joint swelling in the shoulders, knees and ankles, fever, weight loss and tiredness.
Spinal stenosis back pain occurs when the space surrounding the spinal cord or spinal nerves narrows. Symptoms include numbness, pain or weakness. Treatment ranges from spine surgery to acupuncture and even natural remedies.