Using NSAIDs to Relieve Pain

Inflammation contributes to neck and back conditions, so reducing that inflammation can be key in managing your pain. Although it can amplify pain, inflammation is the body’s self-defense mechanism after sustaining an injury or irritation. Instead of restoring to opioids or strong pain medications, many physicians will recommend taking NSAIDs to relieve aches and pains. 

What are NSAIDs?

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs – NSAIDs – are used to treat a variety of symptoms, reduce inflammation, and relieve pain. They are non-opioid medications that are sold over-the-counter at a fraction of the cost of prescribed pain medications. 

NSAIDs are a large classification of drugs that work by preventing the body’s production of an enzyme called cyclooxgenase (COX) from making a specific chemical, prostaglandins.  Prostaglandins are one of the biggest inflammation, fever, and pain triggers.  But this chemical has other effects on the body, such as maintaining the lining of the stomach and intestines, promoting blood clotting, and helping the kidneys function properly.  Taking NSAIDs for a long period of time can have a negative effect on the body, if not under the supervision of a doctor. 

Why Are NSAIDs Used?

NSAIDs are used for a variety of symptoms such as inflammation and aches caused by conditions like arthritis and muscle stiffness. They can be used to treat a wide range of conditions from acute headaches to chronic pain from osteoarthritis. 

Other conditions that NSAIDs can manage are:

• Osteoarthritis
• Muscle aches
• Backaches
• Pain caused by Gout
• Bursitis
• Activity-related pain
• Neck Stiffness
• Post-Surgical pain

Common Types of NSAIDs

Everyone responds to NSAIDs differently, although they work similarly. Each has its own strength and dosing instructions on how often to take it. Many NSAIDs are inexpensive and easy to find at local drugstores. If you don’t experience relief from one option, you can speak with your doctor about switching to another. 

There are many options of over-the-counter NSAIDs, but the four most common types used to treat pain are:

• Aspirin: (Bayer, Ecotrin) In addition to treating pain, fevers, and inflammation, Aspirin may also reduce the risk of heart attacks.
• Ibuprofen: (Advil, Motrin) Ibuprofen treats a range of pain – from post-surgical to headaches. Stronger dosages are available for prescription. 
• Naproxen: (Aleve) Naproxen is typically used to treat back pain.
• Celecoxib: (Celebrex) Celecoxib is commonly used to treat arthritis pain. 

Over-the-counter medications are effective when paired with a comprehensive treatment plan and recommended by your doctor. Learn more about this from the professionals at AOA Ortho. Fill out the form below to get started.