Managing chronic back pain
Here are the steps you can take to counter long-lasting pain.
- Reviewed by Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
At some point, almost everyone experiences back pain. You may have strained a muscle while working out, lifting a heavy object, or simply bending over. Acute back pain (meaning a short-term episode) typically results from this kind of injury. It often resolves on its own with rest and the use of hot or cold compresses. You might be advised to take over-the-counter topical remedies and medication, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain relief or a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) — such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve, Naprosyn) — for both pain and inflammation.
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About the Author
Matthew Solan, Executive Editor, Harvard Men's Health Watch
About the Reviewer
Howard E. LeWine, MD, Chief Medical Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
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