Back pain is one of the most common ailments identified by workers in the United States and may be treated with a variety of back pain products. Typically minor back pain is treated with medication, supports, machines, massage therapy, and exercises. For more severe back pain, surgery may be required.
Back pain products such as medication are used to treat the symptoms that actually cause the pain. For example, if the pain is due to an injury, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) may be used to reduce the swelling. Common over-the-counter medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen fall into this category. If the pain is due to the pinched nerve condition called sciatica, back pain products such as narcotics are used in addition to the NSAIDS.
Other back pain products often used are braces and supports. A back brace is a belt-type apparatus that fits firmly around the waist. The purpose of a back brace is to keep the user from shifting or twisting in a manner that causes the muscles or nerves in the back to hurt. A back support works in a similar manner and is also used when heavy lifting is required.
Machines are another form of back pain products. The most common type of back pain machine is a spinal decompression table. Spinal compression due to bulging or herniated disks typically causes severe back pain. To alleviate the pain, the patient is strapped into a harness and lays flat on the decompression table. The table then expands and slowly stretches the back, which reduces pressure on the lumbar region.
Some back pain sufferers find their pain reduced when they engage in massage therapy. The back pain products used by licensed masseuses, such as deep muscle rubs and oils, may help if the back pain is associated with stress or overexertion of the muscles in the back. A masseuse will target the sore areas and work tired or tight muscles, which in turn allows the person to relax and move easier.
Stretching exercises can also help reduce the pain due to poor spine alignment or support. Some of the most common types of exercise-related back pain products are bands and balls. Bands are used to increase a person's range of motion. Balls help with balance and strengthen the core muscles. The purpose of both types of exercise back pain products is to keep the body flexible and able to withstand sudden movements or exercises without pulling or straining the back muscles.