Lower back pain can be caused by a number of issues, so the first thing you want to do is consult with a physician to determine the root cause of the problem. However, you may find that after you receive a diagnosis, you will discover you may need surgery. Although an option, it is often the last thing that a doctor wants to do. Back surgeries can be dangerous, and the outcome worse than your condition prior to the surgery. Before you think about surgery, you should consider various forms of pain management. The following are just a few ideas.

1. You can try over-the-counter medications

Although this may seem obvious, you want to make sure you have tried everything. For example, you may have tried one but have found it to be ineffective, but you need to make sure you have tried them all. There are three main drugs that can be found to relieve pain at your local drug store: acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen. All of these medications work differently, so if one doesn't work well for you, another may. They are available in various brand names, so check the labels and always follow directions. You may also want to experiment with various topical creams that bring pain relief.

2. You can try physical therapy

Perhaps the single greatest benefit of physical therapy for a person with lower back pain is with stretching exercises. Exactly how much benefit you will receive will depend on the nature of your back pain. People who suffer from disc issues will often benefit the most. You may not have to visit a physical therapist. Your primary care physician can often show you one or two stretching techniques that will help your specific lower back problem the most.

3. You can lose weight

The reason for this is that weight in the front of your body puts a lot of strain on your lower back. Losing weight doesn't require exercise; you can simply go on a diet. For men, you may find that toning up your stomach muscles can have an additional effect on supporting your lower back.

4. You can try massage therapy

Muscles are what benefits the most from a massage, but when you have lower back pain, much of it can be experienced in the muscles. You don't always need someone to give you a massage; you may also find relief in a hot tub by allowing the jet-streaming water to strike your lower back. The combination of hot water and the pulsating jets can bring great relief.

The above ideas are only a few of the possibilities that can help with lower back pain. Your doctor may be able to suggest others. However, you will want to choose surgery as a last resort and avoid using opioid medication because they are addictive.