Expert Advice   Print Version Q. Will my doctor prescribe medications for my condition? A. Mild pain medications can reduce inflammation and pain when taken properly. Medications will not stop degeneration, but they will help with pain control. Here is a list of medications you may be prescribed and the way they can help: Aspirin compounds are over-the-counter pain relievers that can help relieve minor pain and back ache. NSAIDS stands for non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs. These medications are very effective in relieving the pain associated with muscle strain and inflammation. Non-narcotic analgesics (the term analgesics means "pain relievers") address pain at the point of injury. Tylenol and aspirin are the most widely used over-the-counter analgesics. Narcotic pain medication can help relieve severe pain by acting as a numbing anesthetic to the central nervous system. Muscle relaxants have a marginal affect in easing pain from muscle spasm. Antidepressants can relieve the emotional stress that often compounds the symptoms of back pain. Print Version		Anatomy and Function of the Spine Spondylolysis and Spondylolisthesis Diagnostic Tests for Spine Problems Q. When can I play golf, ride a bike, or go hiking after spine surgery? A. It depends on the type and location of your surgery. A micro-discectomy… Clicking on any of the links will take you to a Web site to which this Privacy Policy does not apply. You are solely responsible for your interactions with such Web sites. American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons

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