Back pain is one of the most common physical complaints in Singapore today. Whether it’s from sitting too long at your desk, carrying heavy loads, or poor posture, that dull ache or sharp tension in your lower back can affect your daily life and energy levels.
At Chiropractic Singapore, we understand how disruptive back pain can be. Many people experiencing back discomfort often look for quick relief through medications. While these can be effective for managing pain, it’s important to understand the different options available, how they work, and their potential side effects.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the most common medications used for back pain, including paracetamol, NSAIDs, and Anarex muscle relaxants. We’ll also explore how chiropractic care can be a natural, drug-free alternative to support your spinal health and reduce discomfort.
What Causes Back Pain?
Back pain is a widespread issue that can arise from multiple causes, often working together to create discomfort and limit movement. Some of the most common factors include:
- Poor posture that places uneven pressure on the spine
- Weak core muscles that reduce spinal support
- Muscle strain from lifting or repetitive movements
- Sedentary lifestyle leading to stiffness and weakened muscles
- Spinal misalignments affecting movement and nerve function
- Stress and tension causing muscle tightness and increased pain sensitivity
Close up of man rubbing his painful back
While medications can help manage symptoms temporarily, it’s important to consider natural approaches like chiropractic care to address the root causes and support lasting spinal health.
Paracetamol for Back Pain Relief
Paracetamol is one of the most common over-the-counter medications used to manage back pain. It’s considered an analgesic, which means it works by helping to block the chemical signals that tell your brain you’re in pain.
Common Benefits of Paracetamol:
- Often used for mild to moderate pain
- Generally well-tolerated with fewer gastrointestinal side effects compared to NSAIDs
- Available without prescription
Things to Consider when taking Paracetamol:
- It doesn’t reduce inflammation (unlike NSAIDs), which means it masks the symptoms but do nothing to address the cause of pain.
- Overuse may affect liver health
- Should be taken only as advised on the label or by your healthcare provider
- Relieves symptoms but does not address the underlying cause of back pain
NSAIDs: Anti-Inflammatory Medication for Back Pain Relief
NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) such as ibuprofen and diclofenac are another commonly used class of medication for back pain.
Common Benefits of NSAIDs:
- Reduces inflammation in muscles or joints
- Provides relief for acute pain, sprains, and inflammation
Things to Consider when taking NSAIDs:
- Can cause stomach irritation or ulcers if taken long-term
- May not be suitable for people with certain medical conditions (e.g. kidney issues, ulcers)
- Should always be taken with food
- Does not address the underlying cause of back pain—only the symptoms
Anarex Muscle Relaxant: A Combination Approach for Back Pain Relief
Anarex is a prescription medication that combines a muscle relaxant and paracetamol. It’s used when muscle spasms contribute to your back pain.
Common Benefits of Anarex Muscle Relaxants:
- Helps to reduce muscle tension or spasms
- May provide better pain relief for muscular pain than paracetamol alone
Things to Consider when taking Anarex Muscle Relaxants:
- May cause drowsiness or dizziness
- Not suitable for driving or operating machinery after use
- Should only be taken under medical supervision
- Relieves symptoms but does not address the underlying cause of back pain
Other Medication Options for Back Pain Relief
Analgesics for Back Pain
Analgesics are pain-relieving drugs, and both paracetamol and NSAIDs fall into this category. There are also stronger options available through prescriptions for more severe pain, but does not address the underlying cause of back pain.
Antidepressants for Back Pain
In some chronic cases, low doses of antidepressants may be prescribed for long-term back pain. These medications are thought to work by influencing pain signalling pathways in the nervous system.
- Usually considered only for chronic or nerve-related back pain
- Should be prescribed and monitored by a doctor
- Relieves symptoms but does not address the underlying cause of back pain
Opioids for Back Pain
Opioid medications are powerful analgesics that are generally only considered when other options fail.
- High risk of dependency and side effects
- Only used under strict medical supervision and for short durations
- Relieves symptoms but does not address the underlying cause of back pain
Looking for a Natural & Long-term Solution? Here’s How Chiropractic Care May Support Back Pain Relief
At Chiropractic Singapore, we believe in working with your body to support its natural healing potential. Chiropractic care is a hands-on, non-invasive approach focused on spinal alignment, joint mobility, and nervous system function. Rather than masking symptoms with medication, we aim to address the root of discomfort through safe and gentle adjustments.
Here’s how chiropractic care may support your body:
| Chiropractic Area of Support | How Chiropractic Care May Help |
|---|---|
| Chiropractic for Nervous System Communication | Enhances spinal mobility, which may help support better communication between brain and body. |
| Chiropractic for Spinal Alignment & Posture | Gentle adjustments may help improve spinal alignment and posture, especially from daily strain. |
| Chiropractic for Muscle Tension & Balance | Improved spinal function may help reduce physical tension and promote a sense of muscular balance. |
| Chiropractic for Mobility & Flexibility | Supporting joint movement may contribute to increased comfort during physical activity. |
| Chiropractic as a Natural, Non-Invasive Option | Offers a drug-free, hands-on approach focused on spinal wellness and overall physical function. |
What to Expect at Chiropractic Singapore
At Chiropractic Singapore, we understand that every individual’s back pain experience is unique. That’s why we provide personalised care tailored specifically to your needs. During your first visit, you can expect:
- Comprehensive Consultation: We take the time to listen carefully to your concerns, review your medical history, and understand your lifestyle factors that may contribute to your back pain.
- Spinal and Postural Assessment: Using non-invasive methods, we evaluate your spinal alignment and posture to identify areas of tension or imbalance.
- Personalised Spinal Health Plan: Based on our findings and your health goals, we develop a customised plan designed to support your spinal health and overall well-being.
Our approach is focused on supporting your body’s natural healing processes and improving your quality of life through safe and effective care.
Book Your Spinal Check Today
If you’re tired of relying solely on medication to manage back pain, consider visiting us at Chiropractic Singapore. We’ll work with you to explore a more natural path to feeling your best.
Ready to get started? Book an appointment and schedule your first spinal check. We’re here to support your journey to better spinal health—naturally.
