Management of Backache
Medication
Choice of medication depends on the severity and cause of the back pain. Analgesics help in relieving pain. Muscle relaxing medicines can help in relaxing the muscle spasm. If back pain is caused by arthritis, medicines to reduce inflammation as well as relieve pain are given. The most common medications prescribed are non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
(NSAIDs) These reduce inflammation as well as pain. Aspirin and ibuprofen are examples of
NSAIDs. Prolonged use of anti – inflammatory medications, i.e. greater than 3-4 weeks, in the setting of acute lower back pain is generally not recommended and should be avoided. For details about use of medication in back pain, see the chapter ‘Drug Treatment of Backache’.
