Lower back pain is one of the most prevalent problems in today's times. Sitting for long hours in front of the computer and not including exercise in the daily routine are the primary causes. The upcoming article sheds light on the treatment for lower back pain.

Although the pain experienced in the lower back area can put anyone in an uncomfortable position, the good news is that it can be resolved within a few weeks. Sometimes, it becomes a little difficult to treat this problem, therefore, having an understanding about the underlying causes definitely does help. There are absolutely no 'wonder drugs' that can relieve you from this pain. However, even a simple precaution like avoiding spine injuries can help you get rid of the pain completely. Some basic remedies to alleviate pain in the lower back are to use ice, heat, and medications. But, when these options fail to help, you definitely need advice from an expert. Some signs which indicate that you need immediate attention are:

• Pain persists for long
• Pain is so extreme that it wakes you up at night
• Fever, chills, sweating, or infection

Treating Pain in the Lower Back

Rest

Lower back pain, in most cases, is caused due to strain on the spine, mostly muscle strain. Hence, it's important to give proper rest to the muscles and spine to avoid further irritation. Bed rest is alright for 2 to 3 days, but if you exceed the number of days, it can actually lead to more persistent pain. Once the pain eases, avoid lifting, twisting, and physical exertion.

Anti-inflammatory Medication

Anti-inflammatory medication or NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), as they are generally known, help in treating back-related pain. Their usage is not encouraged until you have chronic back pain. This is because of their associated side effects. Patients with stomach ulcers should not be given such a medication under any circumstances.

Heat Application

Using heat packs relieves one from almost all kinds of back pains. Patients can use any of the following heating techniques, like heating pad, hot water bottles, or a hot water bath to ease the muscle discomfort.

Exercises

Strengthening the lower back muscles is the best way to treat pain. There are exercises that, apart from strengthening these muscles, also provide flexibility. Exercising helps in distributing the weight evenly, thereby helping in putting less strain on the spine.

If the above treatment options don't work, you need to opt for remedies that can be given only under the guidance of a physician. Some of these are:

Narcotic Pain Medications

When the pain persists, physicians advice narcotic pain medications that are excellent in relieving pain. But, these medicines can be dangerous and must be taken only under the supervision of a physician. The medications include Percocet, Vicodin, Oxycontin, and others. Prolonged use of these can prove to be lethal.

Muscle Relaxers

Muscle relaxers are readily available in the market and are extremely beneficial in providing relief from various kinds of back pain. These are sold under the trade name of Flexeril, Soma, Valium, and others. Though these medications help in relieving pain, their usage makes the patients feel dozy.

Spine Surgery

When all other treatments fail, spinal surgery is the last resort. Before taking a decision to undergo a spine surgery, consult an orthopedist who will guide you in deciding the kind of surgery you need to undergo. Some spine surgeries are:

• Discectomy
• Foraminotomy
• Laminectomy

There are some alternate methods of intervention as well other than the above-mentioned ones. See a chiropractor and he/she will suggest a massage therapy or an acupuncture session. Although there has been a lot of debate on the treatment using acupuncture, people who have undergone treatment have benefited a lot from it.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.