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Key takeaways
Common prescription treatments for lower back pain include NSAIDs, muscle relaxants, steroid injections, and opioid pain medicines.
Over-the-counter medicines for lower back pain include Tylenol (acetaminophen) and NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen.
Natural remedies for lower back pain may include applying ice, gentle stretching, and exercising as tolerated.
Low back pain is a common condition that's specific to the lower back area, which may also be referred to as the lumbar area. This area begins just below the ribcage and ends above the tailbone and hips, and supports much of the weight of the upper body. The lower back includes five vertebrae (known as L1-L5); the spaces between the vertebrae are maintained by pads called intervertebral discs, which act as shock absorbers throughout the spinal column to cushion bones as the body moves. Additionally, ligaments hold vertebrae in place, and tendons attach muscles to the spinal column. Finally, 31 pairs of nerves are rooted to the spinal cord to control body movements and transmit signals from the body to the brain. A back injury is one of the common causes of lower back pain. There are a variety of treatments available depending on the cause and severity of low back pain.
How is lower back pain diagnosed?
The most common cause of low back pain is a mechanical back injury. This means an injury that occurs to the spine, back muscles, nerves, or bones near the back that may cause you to become unbalanced, such as in the hips. Common causes for back injuries can include bad posture, improper lifting, arthritis, a ruptured or herniated disc, fractures, falls, and more.
Low back pain is often easy to diagnose because it’s an easily recognizable location. However, you will still want to make sure you see your primary care physician or another back pain specialist (such as an orthopedist) for a thorough review of your medical history and a physical exam to identify any serious conditions that may be causing the pain, and to assist you in seeking treatment. Your provider may also order imaging tests such as an X-ray or MRI.
“Patients should know that lower back pain can be caused by many different things and that they should have a proper evaluation by a physician before going off on their own to find someone to treat them,” said Amy Sedgwick, MD of Yoga Medicine.
Lower back pain treatment options
Back pain treatment will vary depending on the cause and severity of your pain. There are many different options for managing your back pain. Applying ice, especially in the first few days after an injury or acute pain, may help. Various medicines can help, too, including OTC medicines, prescription medicines for pain or spasm, or steroid injections.
Types of lower back pain medication
Medications are often used to treat low back pain. Due to the range of causes and levels of pain in the lumbar area, medications used to treat this pain will vary as well. For some, using an NSAID, such as ibuprofen, can help, but for others, other medications like muscle relaxants or opioids are needed. As always, you should discuss your medication options with your healthcare provider, as opioid medications run a risk of dependence, abuse, or addiction.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
If you’ve ever had an ache or pain at home, then chances are, you’ve taken an NSAID. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are a class of drugs that are used to do exactly what the name implies: reduce inflammation while not being a steroid. They make a great treatment for joint pain, muscle aches, sprains, and more. While NSAIDs can be a good solution for low back pain, they do come with a number of side effects from long-term use. Stomach irritation may progress to ulcers, which can bleed, and kidney issues can arise or be exacerbated if already present. There are many different brands (and store-brand generics) on the market, including ibuprofen, naproxen, and aspirin. Some NSAIDs are available over the counter, and others are available by prescription (some are available OTC at lower doses and by prescription at higher doses). Combining NSAIDs with other medications should be done with the oversight of a medical professional, as NSAIDs may have additional side effects when used with other classes of medications.
Analgesics
Similar to NSAIDs, this drug class includes easily accessible pain relievers available without a prescription, or over-the-counter (OTC). Analgesics typically work by relieving pain (but not swelling). The most commonly used OTC analgesic is Tylenol (acetaminophen). Many patients will use an analgesic if they cannot use nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories, or vice versa. Side effects of this medication include kidney and liver issues, stomach upset, and headaches. It is important to consult your healthcare provider when using an analgesic for a long period of time.
Muscle relaxants
A common cause of lumbar issues is back muscle strain or similar issues, which makes muscle relaxants a frequently prescribed medication. Examples of muscle relaxants include cyclobenzaprine, methocarbamol, metaxalone, and carisoprodol. The side effects of these medications can include drowsiness, dizziness, and stomach upset.
Opioids
When nonopioid medications are not providing adequate pain relief, a healthcare provider might recommend an opioid, which is a type of analgesic. Opioids are available by prescription and work by relieving moderate to severe pain that is not responsive to other therapies. A commonly prescribed opioid for treating low back pain is tramadol. If you are taking an opioid medication, your healthcare provider will monitor you closely. Opioids are associated with problems such as abuse, misuse, and overdose. Side effects of opioids can include nausea, constipation, lightheadedness, and drowsiness.
Your healthcare provider can recommend the best medication for you. The best medication for lower back pain will depend on various factors, such as the severity of back pain, other medical conditions you have, and other medications you take. If you have pain and swelling, an NSAID like ibuprofen may be a good option. If you have muscle spasms, your healthcare provider may also suggest a muscle relaxant like cyclobenzaprine. Below are some common lower back pain medications.
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Best medication for lower back pain
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This is not an exhaustive list of lower back pain medications. Always ask your healthcare provider for the best treatment for lower back pain based on your health condition and medical history.
Common side effects of lower back pain medicine
Common side effects depend on the medicine. For example, NSAIDs tend to cause stomach upset, while muscle relaxants and opioids may cause dizziness and drowsiness. Consult your healthcare provider for more information about the side effects of the medicine you are taking.
Home remedies for lower back pain
Reducing or eliminating your lower back pain at home can be an option, depending on the severity and cause. Many of these remedies are short-term solutions, but they can be a great way to eliminate the need for medications when your next appointment is right around the corner. After consulting a healthcare professional, you may be able to try some of these methods.
Use ice. Treating inflammation with ice is typically a great solution for immediate relief within the 24 to 72-hour window after an injury (or acute pain) has occurred. So if your pain is caused by a back injury that has just happened, applying ice or an ice pack will help to reduce pain and inflammation.
Focus on exercise. Physical therapy and at-home exercise routines are often recommended for preventing or reducing chronic lower back pain. Exercise in general can help with back pain, and adding in some exercises for your core may offer additional benefits.
Support your posture. Ensure that your posture is appropriate for supporting your lower back. If you work in an office, it’s worth investing in either a chair that supports your back or cushions that can help with your posture as well. Having poor posture may worsen your lower back troubles over time.
Stretch. Gentle stretching can help you to move your body and keep your lower back muscles flexible, preventing stiffness that may lead to more pain later on. Your health care provider may be able to point you toward some great resources, as this is a commonly recommended practice.
Turmeric. This is a natural anti-inflammatory that is popularly added to food and drinks as a natural remedy. It can have a strong taste when added in large doses, so some people choose to take it as a dietary supplement. Turmeric may help reduce inflammation and joint pain. Check with a healthcare provider before adding turmeric (or any other supplement) to your routine.
Expert takeaway
"Lower back pain can affect your quality of life," says Karen Berger, Pharm.D., member of the SingleCare Medical Review Board. "If you are experiencing lower back pain, see a healthcare provider for a diagnosis and treatment plan that may incorporate several methods, including medicine, physical therapy, rest, and gentle exercise."
Frequently asked questions about lower back pain
What can I do to relieve my lower back pain?
There are many options for relieving lower back pain depending on the cause, severity, and duration of the pain. For some patients, medications, physical therapy, or treatments such as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and epidural steroid injections may help. Each patient’s needs are different, but a great first step is seeing your primary care provider.
What is the best therapy for lower back pain?
Since each patient’s needs and situation are different, there isn’t one best therapy out there for treating low back pain. When it comes to therapy, however, there are a number of options to explore. Physical therapy, pain management therapy, chiropractic care, and acupuncture are all great options to look at for managing lower back pain.
How do you get rid of back pain fast?
The quickest way to reduce back pain will typically be with an over-the-counter medication, as those are the most accessible, although back pain may take time to get better. NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or naproxen can be purchased over the counter. If the pain is due to a new injury or inflammation, you may be able to try applying ice to the area until you are able to seek medical attention. This will reduce the swelling and pain until further treatment is available.
Is walking good for lower back pain?
Moving your body with regular exercise is often recommended for managing, reducing, and preventing lower back pain. This can include walking, stretching, yoga, light aerobics, and more. Each patient is different, and it is important to discuss your plan with a healthcare provider first, but you’ll typically want to plan on staying active in some form to treat your back pain.
What are the best natural ways to treat lower back pain?
Using ice, gentle stretching, and walking are some natural ways to help lower back pain. Turmeric is a popular natural remedy for pain that is often associated with the lower back. This is due to the root’s anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce joint pain and inflammation. Check with a healthcare provider before using turmeric or any other supplement.
How can I relieve back pain at home?
Managing your back pain at home can be done by using over-the-counter medications, natural remedies, or very light exercise techniques. This could mean taking medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen, acetaminophen, or aspirin. It could also mean attempting natural remedies like taking turmeric or using ice on the affected area. Lastly, you can try some light stretching, walking, or other light exercise. However, you want to consult a healthcare provider before beginning strengthening exercises with a lower back injury to avoid further injury.
What is the best medication for lower back pain?
Every patient is different, and every case of lower back pain is different, which means there is no perfect or best medication out there. There are many commonly used medications such as analgesics, NSAIDs, steroid injections, muscle relaxants, and opioids. However, your healthcare provider is your best source of information for what medications you should consider taking when it comes to managing your lower back pain.
Sources
Low back pain - acute, MedlinePlus (2024)
Low back pain - chronic, MedlinePlus (2025)
Back pain, Cleveland Clinic (2024)
Low back pain, American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
Why a strong core can help reduce low back pain, Cleveland Clinic (2020)
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