Another non-drug approach was recently found to be more effective than ibuprofen and acetaminophen for treating low back pain.

According to a recent study, published in the journal Spine, self-administered heat wraps are an effective and drug-free treatment for acute back pain.

Researchers compared eight hours per day of low-level topical heat therapy (wrapping a Velcro belt with a heating element around the torso), to the recommended dosages of ibuprofen and acetaminophen over two days of therapy and two days of follow-up.

Researchers compared pain, muscle stiffness, disability, and back flexibility, in 400 people with back pain, between the ages of 18-55.

Results of the study showed that heat wrap therapy was more effective than either drug in all categories. Heat wraps were significantly more effective in reducing pain than either drug.

Participants who received heat therapy also reported greater back flexibility and their disability and muscle stiffness were lessened to a greater degree than the drug-therapy group.

Results show that this non-invasive and drug-free treatment for pain relief is more effective than either ibuprofen (Advil^®) or acetaminophen (Motrin^®) — and is also without the adverse side effects linked to both drugs.

For more information about natural approaches to treating back pain, consult with your chiropractor.

SOURCE: Spine, 2002; To Your Health Newsletter, Michael Battey, D.C., www.chiroweb.com, November 19, 2002.