Best OTC Options
1. Ibuprofen (Nurofen)
Winner for acute back pain. As an anti-inflammatory, it targets the root cause of most back pain—inflammation around muscles and nerves.
- •Dose: 400mg every 4-6 hours (max 1200mg/day)
- •Best for: Muscle strains, inflammation
- •Take with food to protect stomach
Recommended Product
Nurofen (Ibuprofen 200mg)
Fast, effective pain relief with anti-inflammatory action. Ideal for period pain, back pain, and inflammation.
2. Voltaren Gel (Diclofenac)
Topical anti-inflammatory that you apply directly to the painful area. Great if you can't take oral NSAIDs.
- •Apply 3-4 times daily
- •Less stomach irritation than oral medications
- •Works well for localized pain
3. Heat Packs
Not a medication, but incredibly effective. Heat increases blood flow and relaxes tight muscles.
- •Use for 15-20 minutes at a time
- •Best for muscle tension and stiffness
- •Combine with pain medication for best results
What About Paracetamol?
Recent studies show paracetamol is less effective for back pain than previously thought. It may help with mild pain, but ibuprofen is generally more effective because back pain usually involves inflammation.
⚠️See a Doctor If
Back pain can sometimes indicate serious conditions. Seek medical attention if you have:
- •Pain that radiates down your leg (sciatica)
- •Numbness or tingling in legs or feet
- •Loss of bladder or bowel control
- •Pain after a fall or injury
- •Pain that doesn't improve after 2 weeks