$Unique_ID{BRK00232}
$Pretitle{Musculoskeletal System and Connective Tissue}
$Title{What Can You Do About Back Pain?}
$Subject{back pain treatments}
$Volume{M-18}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


What Can You Do About Back Pain?


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QUESTION:  It would seem that I have lived a life plagued by frequent, and
recurring bouts with back pain.  I barely bend over to perform the smallest
task, and I can feel it go out again, and know I am at war again.  So its
back to pills and liniments.  What else is there that can help?  I would
appreciate any suggestions.

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ANSWER:  You have read it before, and here I go again.  Each case is
individual, and the treatment strategy must fit the circumstances.  But
here is a general list of things that can be done and a personal
recommendation for you.  First there are oral medications:  muscle
relaxants, analgesics and anti-inflammatory agents.  They help, but rarely
can correct the situation alone.  Next, physical measures:  bed rest,
massage, heat, corsets and braces and exercise.  More help, but each must
be used appropriately as part of a complete program.  Another treatment,
injected drugs:  steroids, local anesthetics only offer temporary relief
that is short lived.  Counterstimulation may be used, employing electrical
nerve stimulation to overcome the pain broadcast by the nerves in the
injured muscles.  A bit controversial, and costly.  Last, but by no means
least in my book education and behavior modification:  In clinics
specializing in these injuries a team approach may bring you some new
information that will aid you in preventing injury, and dealing with it
when it does occur.  A specific program of exercises that restore the
strength to back muscles, increase flexibility, and help adapt to the
tasks you may have in your daily living, in the last analysis, may be the
way for you to escape a life time of repetitive and frustrating "battles".
ÿ
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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
