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What can I take for chronic lower back pain?
I’m 78 years old. I’ve had pain in L4 & L5 for years. Epidurals worked for 4-5 years & then didn’t. I had the Boston Scientific SCS for over a year & it didn’t help at all, so it was removed in 2024. I’ve now got A-Fib, had the Watchman implant in 2024, so I’m off blood thinners. I’ve been told to take Aleve only occasionally b/c of a-fib. Tylenol gives me diarrhea (sorry) & don’t know what to take. I’m going to PT (have mild CP), have a personal trainer at the gym & use a NuStep at home. Does anyone have suggestions on OTC meds that would help? I really don’t want to take strong pain meds. Thanks!
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Try improving your posture by following the Gokhale Primal Posture method. It eliminated my sciatica and avoided surgery.
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2 Reactions@ginnyjm We have similar aging spines at our house. Lidocaine patches have been very helpful, have you tried them?
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5 ReactionsI haven’t, but I’ll look into that. Thanks, Sue!
@sbcarcht what is this Method?
@jchet Look for Esther Gokhale’s book; Eight Steps to a Pain Free Back. Do training classes if possible.
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1 ReactionHave you tried Alleve, it's the only thing that helps with my arthritis pain. 2 pills every 12 hours is prescription strength, but it takes a little time before it kicks in for me.
@sbcarcht thank you…..I’ll check it out
Try voltaren cream. It’s a great anti inflammatory medicine that is a little rough in pill form if you have stomach, kidney, or heart issues. The cream can be applied right to the painful spot. I don’t think it’s as effective as the pills, but it gives me some relief. Ointments that provide heat could help also.
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3 Reactions@closer0043 Thanks for the info!
@mrmacabre that’s the only thing that’s helped, but I’ve got a-fib now & was told that’s not safe.