The Three Main Types of Medication for Spinal Discomfort

by | Dec 31, 2015 | Health Care

When your everyday activities are limited by the pain and stiffness in your back or neck, it’s important to find the right pain medicine in Jacksonville. Depending on the severity of your discomfort, and the disease or ailment that is being treated, medicine options may include anti-inflammatories, analgesics, and muscle relaxers. Both over-the-counter and prescription medications can be of use, but always be sure to read safety labels or discuss the drugs with your doctor before using. Finding relief from the discomfort and stiffness can get you back to enjoying your daily activities, standing or walking at work, or simply sleeping more comfortably.

The Role of Anti-Inflammatories

NSAIDs are Non-Steroid Anti-Inflammatory Drugs. These types of medication are directly used to decrease pain through the reduction of inflammation in the joints and surrounding muscle tissue. This in turn reduces pressure on nerves and keeps pain to a minimum. They are also used to reduce fever symptoms. They can be taken in oral pill form, or injected directly into the area of the body you are experiencing the most pain. Both options have their pros and cons, and each NSAID has its own active ingredient and potential side-effects, so always be sure to discuss their use with your doctor.

What Are Analgesics?

Simply known as pain medicine, analgesics are any number of medications which are specifically for the reduction of physical discomfort. Sold under common over-the-counter names such as Ibuprofen, Lidocaine and Aspirin, these forms are often combinations of analgesic type medications. For a more pure form of analgesic, one could be given a prescription for Morphine or Tramadol which are extremely powerful and potentially addictive opioid drugs. Reserved for the most severe pain cases, these narcotic substances are perfectly safe and non-habit forming when used correctly.

How Muscle Relaxers can Help

Spinal stiffness and discomfort can be due to the muscles restricting tightly or going into spasms. This uncontrollable act can be extremely painful for the sufferer and may reduce their ability to stand or move the slightest amount. Spasms may come on a daily basis, several times a day, and without warning. Muscle relaxers are a great option to reduce the occurrence of spasms by forcing the muscles to loosen and recover a normal rhythm. When used in combination with anti-inflammatories and analgesics, a muscle relaxer can complete a successful combination of medicines to help you sleep at night and begin your recovery process.

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