In a poll of 2,000 adults, 20% reported taking OTC pain medications once a day and 12% take it "a few times a day."

Even so, respondents seemed more interested in avoiding pain altogether; 57% prefer a preventative approach, compared to 15% who tend to react to pain after it's already started.

Over-the-counter medication proved to be the most popular form of primary preventative action (42% of respondents), followed closely by myofascial release tools like foam rollers and back wheels (39%).

In the case of reactive methods, however, respondents were more likely to mention rest (42%) over OTC medication (34%) or myofascial release tools (37%).

The poll, conducted by OnePoll on behalf of Chirp, also explored the ways in which pain inhibits Americans from performing everyday activities.