How to Relieve Acute Back Pain

Back pain is one of the most common reasons people go to the doctor or miss work. Acute (short-term) back pain is usually caused by trauma, such as a car accident or fall, or from overstretched muscles or strains. Pain from acute back pain usually lasts from a few days to a few weeks. If you have suffered a minor back injury, there are several steps you can take to try to relieve acute pain at home.

Things You'll Need

• Ice
• Heat
• Over-the-counter pain medication

Show More

Instructions

• 1

  Alternate treating pain with ice and heat. Start by applying ice packs to the injury. A bag of ice wrapped in a towel should be applied to the injured area a few times a day for 15 to 20 minutes at a time. Cold compresses may help reduce inflammation and swelling. After 24 to 48 hours of ice treatment, try applying a heating pad or heat lamp a few times a day to increase blood flow and relax muscles.

• 2

  Exercise may be very beneficial to an injured back by helping to strengthen back and abdominal muscles. Gentle exercises will keep the muscles moving. Your doctor may recommend that you work with a physical therapist to learn proper exercise technique. Stretching exercises can be especially beneficial.

• 3

  Over-the-counter pain medication may relieve pain for some individuals. Medication such as aspirin, naproxen and ibuprofen can ease mild to moderate back pain. Topical analgesics may also relieve pain and improve blood flow.

• 4

  Rest. For some back injuries, 1 to 2 days of bed rest may lead to relief. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, patients should resume normal activity as soon as possible, because bed rest can actually worsen back pain and can lead to depression, decreased muscle tone and blood clots in legs. Avoid activities that intensify your pain, such as heavy lifting or staying in one position for a long period of time.

• 5

  Get medical advice. If your pain is very intense, or if you don't see improvement within a day or two, call your doctor. Your doctor may recommend other forms of treatment, such as prescription-strength medication. In rare cases, surgery may be indicated.