We've always had the message drummed in to us to take Panadol or paracetamol when in pain but is paracetamol really the best for acute back pain? A recent study suggests it may not be as effective as we think, as least for lower back pain.
Between 2008 and 2013, 1643 adult patients (mean age: 45 years, 53% male) in Sydney, Australia, were placed in a study to look at the effectiveness of paracetamol with acute low back pain. They were divided into 3 groups: One was told to follow the stated dose, the second group to take the tablets as needed and the third group had the same instructions as the first group but were given placebo tablets.
There was no difference in pain or recovery time between the three groups and the median time to recovery for all of them was 17 days. This means taking paracetamol was no better than placebo in treating acute low back pain.
A much better way to manage acute lower back pain, as many of you know, is to give us a call and get a treatment - whether it be osteopathy, massage or naturopathy! We'll also be able to advise you on appropriate stretches and exercises for a faster recovery. When it comes to tablets, we're strong believers in using turmeric as a natural anti-inflammatory, which is nice and gentle for your gut. Speak to reception for for information.
References:https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(14)60805-9/fulltext
