Ask your doctor about light exercises that may help your back pain. Try to do light activity throughout the day. Find a comfortable position for rest, but don't stay in one position for too long. Avoid activities that cause pain.
To apply heat, put a warm water bottle, a heating pad set on low, or a warm cloth on your back. Do not go to sleep with a heating pad on your skin.
Put ice or a cold pack on your back for 10 to 20 minutes at a time. Put a thin cloth between the ice and your skin.
If the doctor gave you a prescription medicine for pain, take it as prescribed.
If you are not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if you can take an over-the-counter pain medicine, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), or naproxen (Aleve). Read and follow all instructions on the label. Take pain medicines exactly as directed.
Do not take two or more pain medicines at the same time unless the doctor told you to. Many pain medicines have acetaminophen, which is Tylenol. Too much acetaminophen (Tylenol) can be harmful.
To prevent future back pain, do exercises to stretch and strengthen your back and stomach. Learn how to use good posture, safe lifting techniques, and proper body mechanics.
The content above contains general health information provided by Healthwise, Incorporated, and reviewed by its medical experts. This content should not replace the advice of your healthcare provider. Not all treatments or services described are offered as services by us. For recommended treatments, please consult your healthcare provider.