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[MineralMan]

43. Since it's OTC stuff, it's worth a try.

Follow package dosages and take ibuprophen with food to minimize gastro issues. However, if you don't get relief from the combination, off you go to the doctor. Seriously. OTC self-medication is often a good way to start with an acute problem, but if it doesn't work soon, you need to be looked at by a doctor.

We humans have weak backs. Back pain is one of the most common problems we experience. Doctors often don't have an answer, either. Normally, a typical back problem will resolve itself in a week or two, or even less. If it doesn't, then it's time to start looking for more answers, but many people have recurring acute back pain that resolves with rest, heat and OTC medications.

When my back gets into spasm mode, I take the ibuprophen and tylenol in generic forms. I drink coffee anyhow. I also use topical stuff like Ben-Gay or a heating pad. A bad episode might last a week, but if I catch it as soon as it begins, I'm often OK by the next day. Rest is crucial. Find a position that is the least painful and stay in it, and the body will normalize itself. The medications do help to find that minimal pain position, though.

On the other hand, back pain caused by disc problems or more serious spinal issues will not resolve on their own. Then, it's time to visit the doctor.

There's no magic answer for everyone. But, an acute back pain thing is usually self-limiting. If it's not, then more investigation is needed.