Lower back pain is a common ailment. People of all ages can experience lower back pain to varying degrees. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, a division of the National Institute of Health, the causes of lower back pain are many, but most causes of discomfort do not require invasive therapy to cure (see Resources).
Rest
Most of the time, lower back pain can be relieved by resting. Bed rest is best if you can manage it, but even limiting your activities can help your back heal.
Compresses
Icing your back can reduce inflammation and alleviate some of your pain. Applying warmth, such as a heating pad, to your lower back can loosen up stiff muscles.
NSAIDs
Non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen and naproxen can relieve lower back pain and reduce inflammation.
Prescription Medication
Your doctor may prescribe muscle relaxants or anti-convulsant medications if you have frequent spasms in your lower back or experience nerve pain.
Exercise
Stretching exercises help retain normal range of motion and strengthen your muscles. Exercising helps speed recovery time from minor lower back injuries.
Alternative Medicine
Alternative treatments such as chiropractic manipulation or acupuncture may be used to treat lower back pain in some individuals. Results from these forms of medicine vary widely from person to person.
Surgery
In some cases, lower back pain is caused by disc displacement or nerve damage. Surgery can fix these issues and eliminate the source of lower back pain.
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