Back Pain First Aid

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Low back pain is a common symptom that is not generally associated with an illness or a specific injury. Even if the pain is severe, it can go away as quickly on its own as it does after medical treatment, sometimes more quickly. Most episodes of back pain that last more than 1 week diminish by themselves in about 1 month. To get relief from low back pain, consider these options:

• Take nonprescription pain relievers, such as aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen, at the first onset of pain in the lower back hip and/or leg.
• Apply a cold pack (or a bag of ice wrapped in a towel) to the painful area for 5–10 minutes at a time, during the first 24–48 hours of discomfort.
• If the pain is not better within a few days, use a heating pad on the painful area.
• Keep moving, but protect your back. Avoid sudden turning or bending motions. As much as you can, avoid bed rest. Go on with your usual activities as much as possible.
• Get help. If the pain is still intense or troublesome after 1 week or so, make an appointment for spinal manipulation with a licensed physical therapist, chiropractor, or osteopathic physician.
• If the pain has not decreased to a tolerable level after 4–6 weeks, make an appointment with your healthcare professional.