When it comes to lower back pains, Americans would often reach for the nearest pain killer to quickly relieve the ache. But the American College of Physicians now recommends an alternative to popping those pain pills.
The American College of Physicians admitted that their pharmaceutical tools used to treat patients with lower back pain and other common aches do not always work. A new medical guideline will state that medicine is the last line of treatment.
According to reports, Americans' lower back pain problems are one of the most frequent concerns when it comes to doctor's visits, as reported by Vox. Having admitted that drugs and pain killers should be the last line of treatment, The American College of Physicians suggest all doctors to recommend exercise and other forms of therapies like heat wraps.
Yoga and other physical exercises can be better cures compared to opioids and over the counter pain killers. To make this guideline official, the American College of Physicians has published their guideline in the Annals of Internal Medicine.
Lower back pain aches are common complaints among patients. Trying out non-invasive methods such as yoga, for example, can be beneficial in the long run. It does not only help manage pain but also provide the patient with a meditative therapy. The American College of Physicians warn that this is only applicable to lower back pains with no specific causes.
When it comes to alleviating pain, there is no silver bullet. Which is why physicians want to suggest a healthier option before shelling out money. But for patients who wants medication, other publications, like Self, indicates that over the counter pain killers like Advil can help as well as muscle relaxants. However, medicines with steroid injections and acetaminophen, like Tylenol, are found to be not helpful.
In the video below, lead investigator, Professor David Torgerson, explains that yoga may be more effective than usual care for improving back pain and function among chronic low back pain sufferers.
