Spine Article

Using NSAIDs and Acetaminophen for Treating Your Back Pain

Many people suffer from chronic and acute pain. These individuals rely on over-the-counter medications and prescribed drugs which offer pain relief. Physicians realize that pain management is an integral part of the healing process. Also they are aware that both acute pain and chronic pain dealt with on a daily basis can lead to other complications such as depression, lack of sleep, and immobility. None of these are in the patient's best interest so if the pain is treated the patient will get well sooner.

Acute or chronic back pain can be a disabling condition. Since the spinal cord and millions of nervous connecting to the spinal column are present in the back, a back pain sufferer can experience excruciating pain. Two available medications which help alleviate chronic and acute back pain are acetaminophen and the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Both of these pain medications target the pain and can be used simultaneously. This is because acetaminophen and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs target the pain in different ways, which is the pain sufferer faster and more satisfying relief of their pain.

Most of the back pain medications available today are comprised of both muscle relaxants and a narcotic pain medication which helps relieve pain and certain related complications. Some patients who experienced chronic pain will also need to make use of an antidepressant and/or an anti-seizure medication.

As with most medications in NSAIDs and acetaminophen both have risks and their own side effects. Anyone suffering from back pain or chronic pain should first see their physician for a consult before deciding on a particular medicine for their pain. This is because even over-the-counter drugs are not safe for some individuals to use. People who have liver problems and certain other health conditions are advised not to take acetaminophen except under doctor's orders. So it is of the utmost importance to consult with your physician before you self medicate. It is also advised that you read all directions on the label of any drug you take and familiarize yourself with the instructions with each drug that you take.

NSAIDs are particularly effective against back pain and chronic pain since many times in inflammation is a contributing factor to the pain. As an example it would be effective for a vertebral disc which had slipped out of alignment and degenerated. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are so effective because they help relieve inflammation around an injury which makes the body's process of healing much more efficient and faster. One of the unfortunate side effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs is that they tend to calls gastrointestinal issues after continued use. Not all of the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs will cause an individual a gastrointestinal problem.

Currently acetaminophen happens to be among the most effective of nonprescription drugs for back pain and chronic pain. Acetaminophen also has fewer side effects than most non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. As a matter of fact acetaminophen is often an additive to other pain medications. Acetaminophen actually fights pain by targeting the pain sensors within the brain, which in turn makes the patient feel less pain.