What Did the Research Discover?
Low back pain is a common condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Many people take pain relievers to manage their symptoms, but this study found that most medications offer little to no benefit. The research reviewed multiple studies on non-specific low back pain, which is pain without a clear cause like a fracture or infection. It focused on adults aged 18 to 60 and examined how well different pain relievers worked.
The findings showed that acetaminophen (Tylenol) was no more effective than a placebo. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen provided only a small benefit, but they also increased the risk of stomach problems. Muscle relaxants helped in the short term but caused drowsiness and dizziness. Stronger medications, including opioids like oxycodone, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants like gabapentin, did not significantly reduce pain and had serious risks such as addiction and withdrawal symptoms. Some herbal remedies and topical treatments had mixed or weak evidence supporting their use.
Most cases of acute low back pain improve within a few weeks without any treatment. However, about 25% of people continue to experience symptoms beyond three months, leading to chronic pain. For those with chronic pain, non-drug treatments like physical therapy, structured exercise, and psychological approaches were found to be more effective than pain medications.
How Can I Apply This Information?
If you have low back pain, this research suggests that medication may not be the best option. While NSAIDs may provide some short-term relief, they come with risks. Stronger medications like opioids and antidepressants are not recommended due to their limited benefits and potential harms.
Instead of relying on medication, staying active and using other strategies may be more helpful. Movement can help the body heal, and avoiding too much rest can prevent worsening symptoms. Heat therapy, physical therapy, and guided exercises can improve function and reduce pain over time. Mental health also plays a role in pain management, and addressing stress, anxiety, and sleep problems can help.
This study is part of ongoing research, and scientists continue to explore the best ways to manage low back pain. If you are experiencing pain, talk to a healthcare provider about non-drug treatments that might work for you.
Source:
CJones CM, Underwood M, Chou R, Schoene M, Sabzwari S, Cavanagh J, Lin CW. Analgesia for non-specific low back pain. bmj. 2024 Jun 27;385. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11208989/
