Ibuprofen

Ibuprofen is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug, or NSAID, typically used to treat mild to moderate pain and inflamed tissues. In addition to being a pain reliever, ibuprofen is an anti-pyretic, or fever reducer. It can be used to treat common conditions, such as a cold or flu, headaches, muscle aches, menstrual cramps, and neck and back pain. Ibuprofen is also often recommended as a conservative (non-invasive) treatment for the symptoms associated with osteoarthritis, which can include pain, stiffness, tenderness, and tissue inflammation. You should always consult with your physician before taking ibuprofen or any other drug.

Side Effects

Ibuprofen is generally regarded as a safe drug, prescribed frequently and widely available in over-the-counter forms. In certain rare situations, however, the following side effects may develop:

• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Stomach bleeding
• Gastrointestinal ulcers
• Stomach pain
• Weakness
• Heartburn

Additionally, kidney and liver problems or failure could occur when combining ibuprofen and alcohol, so drinking alcohol should be avoided. The risk for heart attack and stroke also increases with the prolonged use of the drug.

Laser Spine Institute

Conservative treatments such as ibuprofen, physical therapy, and low-impact exercise may be suggested as first step in alleviating neck and back pain. In some cases, these non-invasive options cannot successfully eliminate symptoms associated with certain spinal conditions and surgery may be recommended. Before you consent to open back or neck surgery, consider the minimally invasive procedures available at Laser Spine Institute. Our orthopedic experts use advanced endoscopic techniques to perform these procedures, which have helped tens of thousands of people find relief from back and neck pain. Contact Laser Spine Institute for more information and you’ll receive a complimentary review of your MRI or CT scan.