You may believe you need to see a doctor right away, but simple at-home remedies can help you feel better sooner.
CHANGE TO NEUTRAL
Rest in postures that do not cause your spine to arch or flatten. Lie on the floor, bend your knees, and rest your calves on an exercise ball or a chair.
Seek medical attention if your pain is the result of a violent injury, if you have numbness, incontinence, or fever, or if you have an underlying condition.
GET SOME PAINKILLERS
Take the maximum value on the label (choose NSAIDs over acetaminophen unless you have stomach issues).
DETOUR
Pills not working? Contact your doctor. You may require prescription pain relievers or muscle relaxants.
USE ICE (OR HEAT)
Both will assist, however heat will bring healing blood flow to the region after 48 hours.
REQUEST REINFORCEMENTS
Move as much as you can (a physical therapist can show you how), but avoid lifting, twisting, bending, or any other activity that may have triggered your back attack.
DO NOT REQUIRE X-RAYS
Scans, such as MRIs. Early imaging will not hasten healing and may result in ineffective therapy.
Consult a physician!
You do not require immediate assistance from a specialist: Primary-care physicians see a lot of patients with low-back discomfort.
GET IN THE SWIMMING POOL
Aquatic exercise, or "running" in deep water, may speed recovery more than other forms of exercise.
landlubber moves about.
NEXT STEP
Simple tasks such as standing at the sink to wash your teeth might be painful. Place one foot on a stool and alternate legs to relieve pressure.
A month may seem interminable, but if you believe you will recover, you are more likely to do so.
DETOUR
If you are still in discomfort after four weeks, see your usual doctor.
TRY ANOTHER WAY
Acupuncture, chiropractic, medical massage, and cognitive-behavioral treatment are all options.
IS IT BACK?
Flare-ups are rather common. Return to "Days 1 - 2" and use what worked there.
ARE YOU FEELING NORMAL AGAIN?
