Rest
We know it can be challenging for go-getters to sit around and do nothing, but bed rest — for a day or two at most — can be an effective method for relieving back pain.
UNDERSTAND PAIN
Understand Your Back pain
Whether back pain comes as a surprise or begins to occur on a regular basis, it can feel as though your life is being put on hold. The more you learn about back pain, the better you can manage it on your terms.
THE BASICS OF BACK PAIN
If you suffer from back pain, you're far from alone - about 8 in 10 people will experience back pain at some point. In fact, in the United States, back pain is the number one cause of disability in men over age 45, and it's the second most common reason people visit the doctor.
You can experience pain in the upper or lower back, the left or right side — it can even radiate from one spot to another area of the back or body. Back pain is either acute (lasting from a few days to a few weeks) or chronic (lasting for more than 3 months). Acute back pain is more common and can be caused by some type of accident, like a fall or sports injury.
8 in 10 people will experience back pain at some point.
WHAT'S BEHIND IT?
There are a number of different things that can cause back pain. Some of the most common causes are:
- Strained back muscles or ligaments
- Bulging or ruptured discs (cushions between the vertebrae, or spinal bones)
- Osteoarthritis
- Severe scoliosis
- Osteoporosis
Each of these conditions are known to cause pain. See your doctor to get a diagnosis and develop a treatment plan just right for you.
Aleve is indicated for the temporary relief of minor aches and pains
WHAT YOU CAN DO ABOUT IT
When it comes to back pain relief, there's good news — some back pain can be treated without surgery. However, what works for one person might not work or be right for another. So, it's important to get a diagnosis from your doctor and discuss your treatment options. In the meantime, here are a few things that can provide back pain relief:
Exercises and stretches
Proper exercises to strengthen the muscles around the area in pain, and stretching to keep the tendons flexible, can provide relief. Each person's condition is unique. Please consult with your doctor first to set up a treatment plan and before you begin any exercises.
Medication
Prescription and over-the-counter medications, like Aleve, can help ease back pain when used as directed. Just make sure you always check with your doctor before taking any medication.
Related Articles
Arthritis Pain
Arthritis pain can influence what you do every day — try not to let it. Taking control starts with understanding
Back & Muscle Pain
Chances are your active lifestyle will occasionally be interrupted by back and muscle pain. In fact, the unexpected burden of back pain is perhaps more common than you might think. While our backs are generally strong and supportive, they’re also one of the body parts most vulnerable to pain. The good news is that more often than not, relief for minor back pain can be found within the comfort of home using simple self-care.
Headache Pain
A headache. It can feel quite literally like the worst thing in the world. Let’s get to the cause of your headache so you can get back to living your days uninterrupted by pain.