OTC Meds (Pain Relief, Anti-Inflammatory, Nutritional Supplements)

One of the first sources of treatment for acute and sometimes chronic back pain is over the counter (OTC) pain and inflammation medications. These include Tylenol, aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil), and naproxen (Aleve). Caffeine is sometimes added to certain compounds such as Excedrin. All of these medications are effective for the treatment of minor pain. Ibuprofen and Naproxen are also effective as anti-inflammatory medications when used on a regular basis for the treatment of arthritis. However, individuals need to be careful if too much medication is used. Liver damage, kidney disease, and bleeding ulcers can occur. High dose and long term use should be monitored by a physician.

Glucosamine and condroitin sulfate has been shown in recent studies to also be helpful in the management of arthritis type pain. Further, hot peppers (especially the capsasin oil found in their seeds) are a powerful natural pain killer. Capsasin can be ingested in the form of hot peppers or hot sauce, or, applied topically (Zostrix Cream, Capsasin-P). Capsasin is believed to work by stimulating the release of beta endorphins in the brain and other organs, and, by inhibiting the release of substance-p at nerve endings which is a neurotransmitter responsible for the transmission of pain impulses in peripheral nerves. Cultures in Central America and Asia have used hot peppers for centuries to control mild to moderate pain. Many individuals have also used capsasin capsules which can be purchased in various health food and nutritional supplement stores.

Otc Meds can treat the following conditions:

Sprains and Strains
Herniated Intervertebral Disc
Degenerative Disc Disease
Spondylolisthesis
Facet Arthritis
Spinal Stenosis