Back pain and stiffness can make daily activities challenging. Frequently, a self-care approach using limited rest, appropriate gentle exercise, and over-the-counter medications such as aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen can make you feel more comfortable until your pain resolves on its own.
When back pain does not improve on its own, the Summit Orthopedics team evaluates your symptoms and works with you to determine the treatment that is best for your individual condition. As part of your treatment, we may use medications to support your return to function.
Some medications are used to help reduce pain and swelling, including:
- Anti-inflammatory medications
- Topical cortisone gels
- Cortisone injections
A note about narcotics
Summit Orthopedics is an interventional spine care clinic and does not manage narcotic medications long term. We can refer you to a pain specialist if needed. Learn more about our non-narcotic approach here.
Medication tips
Some lifestyle habits can improve medications’ effectiveness. At Summit, we teach you about steps you can take to control the pain and get the best results from doctor-supervised medication, including:
- Not smoking
- Drinking alcohol in moderation, or not at all
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Participating in regular exercise
Some medications and supplements can cause a harmful reaction with pain medications. Keep an up-to-date list of all over-the-counter drugs, medications, supplements, and vitamins you take, and share it with us before you begin any new medication.
Summit Orthopedics offers comprehensive spine expertise
Summit’s spine care team is recognized by the National Committee for Quality Assurance for the comprehensive expertise of our patient-centered care. Our back specialists diagnose spine problems and design custom treatment plans built on a conservative, nonsurgical approach. Most patients find relief through treatments including guided injections, specialized physical therapy, biofeedback, exercise, activity modification, and medication. When conservative care does not relieve symptoms, our highly skilled surgeons offer proven, evidence-based surgical options. Together with you, we will determine the right course of action.
Start your journey to a healthy spine. Find your spine expert, request an appointment online, or call us at (651) 968–5201 to schedule a spine consultation.
Summit has convenient locations across the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area, serving Minnesota and western Wisconsin. We have state-of-the-art centers for comprehensive orthopedic care in Eagan, MN, Vadnais Heights, MN, and Woodbury, MN, as well as additional community clinics throughout the metro and southern Minnesota.
More resources for you
- Visit our Spine Exercise Library for options to help ease neck and back pain
- See Summit’s treatment options for neck, back, and spine care
- Check out additional information on Summit’s approach to spine care
