Medications for spine arthritis

Medications are available for the treatment of spine arthritis symptoms. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are included in nearly all conservative treatment plans for arthritis. Other medications frequently prescribed are analgesics (Vicodin, for example), anti-seizure medications (Neurontin, for example) and antidepressant medications (Paxil, Elavil and Wellbutrin are examples). The type of medication recommended will largely depend on the severity of your arthritis symptoms, potential drug interactions with existing prescriptions and your age and general health.

For mild to moderate arthritis pain, over-the-counter medications, such as ibuprofen and aspirin, are often recommended because they are effective, inexpensive and come with relatively few side effects. Prescription medications can offer relief if you experience more severe pain; however, some of them are addictive and can have troublesome side effects when taken over an extended period.

Ointments and creams, on the other hand, can be useful in treating inflammation and have fewer side effects, although they also don’t tend to be long lasting and are usually considered a temporary solution. If none of these medications provide relief, other options such as steroid injections may be effective.

It is important to note that you should always talk to your physician before taking any pain medications for spine arthritis — even if you only plan to use an over-the-counter option. Some individuals have allergies and other considerations that could rule out the use of a particular drug.

USA Spine Care can help

The pain associated with arthritis can seriously affect your life. If you have tried medications for spine arthritis with no success, there are other effective options. Minimally invasive decompression, and in severe cases, stabilization surgeries, like those offered at USA Spine Care, work to treat symptoms of spinal arthritis and other degenerative back ailments. Furthermore, our procedures reduce risk and shorten recovery time when compared to traditional open-back surgery.^ You can learn more about our surgical procedures by visiting our FAQ page, where you will find answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about our state-of-the-art treatment options. If you have additional questions, contact us today. Our caring team can provide you with a free MRI review* and help determine if you are a candidate for our minimally invasive procedures.