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WEKU
WEKU
Health
Will Stone

Opioids are overrated for some common back pain, a study suggests

Back and neck pain affect millions of Americans. New research suggests that opioids may not make sense for treating certain kinds of acute back pain. (South_agency/Getty Images)

Back and neck pain afflicts millions of American adults, driving many to seek relief from their family doctor or even the local emergency room.

When these episodes of pain are acute and nonspecific — meaning there's no clear cause or explanation — it's generally advised to start off with everyday remedies like over-the-counter anti-inflammatories, and alternatives like heat therapy, massage or exercise.

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