title: Natural anti-inflammatory agents for pain relief.
abstract: The use of both over-the-counter and prescription nonsteroidal medications is frequently recommended in a typical neurosurgical practice. But persistent long-term use safety concerns must be considered when prescribing these medications for chronic and degenerative pain conditions. This article is a literature review of the biochemical pathways of inflammatory pain, the potentially serious side effects of nonsteroidal drugs and commonly used and clinically studied natural alternative anti-inflammatory supplements. Although nonsteroidal medications can be effective, herbs and dietary supplements may offer a safer, and often an effective, alternative treatment for pain relief, especially for long-term use.
authors.affiliation: Department of Neurosurgery, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, USA.
authors.forename: Joseph C
authors.initials: JC
authors.lastname: Maroon
authors.forename: Jeffrey W
authors.initials: JW
authors.lastname: Bost
authors.forename: Adara
authors.initials: A
authors.lastname: Maroon