Non-Invasive
Medications
Thoughtful Use of Medicine in Spine Care
When back or neck pain strikes, the first step is often medication to reduce discomfort and allow healing. At Desert Spine and Pain, we use medications strategically and short-term — just enough to calm pain so you can move, exercise, and participate in physical therapy. Under the guidance of Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., FAANS, FACS, a nationally respected neurosurgeon, our team prescribes the right medicine at the right dose, with careful attention to your safety and long-term health.
Over 100 5-Star Reviews!
Over 30 Years Experience in Orthopedic & Neuro Spine Surgeries.
Why Medications Are Used
Reduce pain and inflammation so patients can stay mobile
Calm muscle spasms that often worsen spine pain
Improve tolerance for therapy so healing continues
Bridge to other treatments like injections or minimally invasive surgery if needed
Common Medications in Spine Care
1. Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
Examples: ibuprofen, naproxen, meloxicam, diclofenac
How they work (simple): They reduce swelling and ease pain.
How they work (science): NSAIDs block cyclooxygenase (COX) enzymes, reducing prostaglandin production — key drivers of inflammation and pain.
Best for: Arthritis, disc pain, strains, sprains
Risks: Stomach irritation, kidney effects, increased cardiovascular risk in some patients
2. Muscle Relaxants
Examples: cyclobenzaprine, methocarbamol, tizanidine, baclofen
How they work (simple): Relax tight muscles to ease spasms and improve mobility.
How they work (science): They act on the central nervous system to reduce hyperactive muscle reflexes.
Best for: Acute back or neck spasms, whiplash injuries, post-surgical muscle tension
Risks: Drowsiness, dizziness; not meant for long-term daily use
3. Other Supportive Medications
Acetaminophen (Tylenol): Pain relief without anti-inflammatory effects; safe in many patients who cannot take NSAIDs
Topical medications: Creams, gels, or patches with NSAIDs, lidocaine, or capsaicin
Neuropathic pain agents: In some cases, gabapentin or duloxetine may be used for nerve-related pain (carefully chosen case by case)
Safe Use of Medications
At Desert Spine and Pain, we:
Review your full medical history and current medications to avoid interactions
Use the lowest effective dose for the shortest period of time
Combine medications with therapy, lifestyle changes, and interventional options
Monitor and adjust your plan as your condition improves
Recovery Timeline
Acute pain: Medications often work within hours to days
Short-term use: NSAIDs and muscle relaxants are typically used for 1–4 weeks
Long-term care: Chronic medication use is avoided in favor of sustainable treatments like PT, injections, or surgery if needed
Why Choose Desert Spine and Pain?
Neurosurgeon-led prescribing – Dr. Greenwald ensures medications fit into your larger treatment plan
Safety-first approach – Careful review of risks, interactions, and monitoring
Integrated care – Medications are paired with PT, injections, and lifestyle changes, not used in isolation
Compassionate support – We explain medications in plain language so you feel confident about your care
Frequently Asked Questions
Are NSAIDs safe for long-term use?
Not usually. Long-term use may increase stomach, kidney, or heart risks. We prescribe them short-term and explore other strategies for chronic pain.
Will muscle relaxers make me drowsy?
Yes, many can. We recommend taking them in the evening or when you don’t need to drive.
Can I combine NSAIDs and acetaminophen?
Yes, in many cases they can be alternated or combined safely — but only under medical guidance.
What if I can’t take NSAIDs?
We’ll explore alternatives like acetaminophen, topical therapies, or targeted injections.
How does Desert Spine and Pain use medications differently?
We never rely on medication alone — it’s always part of a comprehensive, conservative-first plan under expert oversight.
Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD
Neuro-Spine Surgeon
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If you’re struggling with back or neck pain and want to explore whether NSAIDs or muscle relaxers are right for you, Dr. Greenwald and his caring team are here to help. We’ll take the time to understand your symptoms, review your medical history, and create a personalized treatment plan that promotes healing and comfort. Every step you take toward proper pain management brings you closer to feeling your best. Schedule your consultation today and take the first step toward lasting relief and improved spine health.
Voted Best Spine Doctor
Over 30 Years Experience in Orthopedic & Neuro Spine Surgeries.
Dr. David L. Greenwald, M.D., F.A.C.S.
Neurosurgeon | Spine Surgeon | Regenerative Medicine
Dr. David L. Greenwald, MD, FACS, is a board-certified spine surgeon who often incorporates medications such as NSAIDs and muscle relaxers into comprehensive, non-surgical treatment plans for spine-related pain and inflammation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help reduce swelling and discomfort caused by conditions like herniated discs, arthritis, or muscle strain, while muscle relaxers can ease spasms that commonly accompany back or neck injuries. Dr. Greenwald carefully evaluates each patient’s condition, medical history, and symptom severity to prescribe medications that are both safe and effective. By combining medication management with physical therapy, targeted injections, or minimally invasive procedures when needed, he helps patients throughout South Florida achieve meaningful relief and improved mobility.
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