What's the best way to treat back pain?

2. Which type of over-the-counter pain reliever is best for low back pain?
a) Aspirin
b) Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others)
c) Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others)
d) Any of the above

3. When low back pain strikes, what's the worst thing you can do?
a) Rest in bed all day
b) Take a pain reliever
c) Use an ice pack
d) Massage the painful area

4. Heat and ice can soothe sore and inflamed muscles. When it comes to low back pain, which order is best?
a) Heat, then ice
b) Ice, then heat
c) It doesn't matter

5. Which sleeping position is best for your back?
a) On your stomach, with your arms along your sides
b) Curled on your side, with a pillow between your knees
c) Flat on your back
d) It doesn't matter

6. Which type of mattress is best for people who have low back pain?
a) Soft
b) Medium soft
c) Medium firm
d) firm

7. If you have chronic low back pain, how often should you wear a support brace?
a) All the time
b) For short periods or during back-straining activities
c) Only while you're sleeping

8 . What effect does smoking have on low back pain?
a) Smoking can improve healing by helping you relax
b) Smoking can hinder the healing process
c) Smoking and back pain aren't related

9. Which treatment is usually considered a last resort for low back pain?
a) Surgery
b) Acypuncture
c) Medication
d) Electrical Stimulation

10. When should you consult your doctor about low back pain?
a) When the pain doesn't improve within 72 hours
b) When the pain spreads down one or both legs
c) When the pain is accompanied by unexplained weight loss
d) Any of the above