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Writer's pictureEvelyn Harper

Acetaminophen nothing but a placebo?

Updated: Jul 18

Prescription pain-killers don't work

80% of Americans at some point in their life will suffer from lower back pain. It's not uncommon to believe that popping a pill when in pain, especially back pain, will provide relief. Painkillers are not the only option in treating back pain.

Take Acetaminophen AKA Tylenol, an over-the-counter drug that can also be prescribed in higher doses. You may as well pop a placebo, you'll get the same affect. What a placebo? Wikipedia *A harmless pill, medicine, or procedure prescribed more for the psychological benefit to the patient than for any physiological effect.

According to HealthDay News in a recent article -- Acetaminophen, Even though recommended by doctors, the painkiller acetaminophen does not help treat lower back pain, according to a new Australian study.

The study shows that the drug is just as effective as a dummy pill. 1,600 people suffering from acute lower back pain felt no comfort or pain relief. The subjects tested continued to have sleepless nights and continued back pain showing no improvement.

There has been a campaign in promoting acetaminophen as the first choice when treating this common back pain. This recent study throws that concept out the window. There are physicians believe it's too early to abandon acetaminophen for lower back pain.

There are studies that debunk this study show Acetaminophen as a pain relief medication.

Back pain is a common problem and one of the leading causes for physician visits. Most cases are attributed to muscular strains and/or ligament injury or skeletal degenerative changes.

Back Pain Treatment

Suffering lower back pain? Rest for a short period of time, one to three days can be recommended. Prolonged rest can lead to weak of muscle strength, and may increase muscle stiffness, adding to pain and discomfort. Sprain and strain is commonly treated with Acetaminophen if the pain is mild to moderate.

Doctors throughout Brooklyn, New York experts in lower back pain understand that popping a pill is not the cure all of pain. They will recommend physical therapy.


These pain management physicians will evaluate the patients overall health, combined with a complete diagnosis, will develop a treatment specifically designed for patients with low back pain.

Pain medication and muscle relaxants may be prescribed for relief in conjunction with the physical therapy.


731 Flushing Ave

Brooklyn, NY 11206

(917) 310-4957‬

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