WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE BACK PAIN
Danger signals
SEEK IMMEDIATE ATTENTION IF YOU HAVE ANY OF THESE
 |
Excruciating back pain |
|
Severe pain from back down a leg with weakness of the leg or difficulty controlling bowels or bladder. |
|
Back pain and a fever. |
|
Back pain and urinary symptoms. |
Most cases of back pain are not serious and will resolve on their own. Helpful suggestions:
|
Take ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, or Nuprin) or acetaminophen (Tylenol). This will help to reduce the pain. |
|
Cold is usually helpful for the first 1-2 days after a back sprain. |
|
Heat may be more helpful if it feels like the muscles are very tight (in spasm). |
|
You should avoid anything that makes the back feel worse. |
|
Limited bed rest is appropriate, though it is very important to get up and walk around periodically so you don't feel too stiff. |
You should be seen by a doctor if the pain persists for more than 2-3 days and is not improving.