To get the best experience while viewing this site, it is recommended that you upgrade to a modern browser version of Chrome or Firefox.

You may do so by clicking on one of these icons:


southern new mexico surgery center
 
  •  

  •  
    Health Library Explorer
    A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z A-Z Listings Contact Us
    Related Reading

    Relieving Back Pain

    Back pain is a common problem. You can strain back muscles by lifting too much weight. Or just by moving the wrong way. Back strain can be uncomfortable or even painful. And it can take weeks or months to get better. Try these tips to help yourself feel better. They can also help prevent back strains.

    Ice

    Ice eases muscle pain and swelling. It helps most during the first 24 to 48 hours after an injury.

    • Wrap an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas in a thin towel. Never put ice directly on your skin.

    • Place the ice where your back hurts the most.

    • Don’t ice for more than 20 minutes at a time.

    • You can use ice several times a day.

    Closeup of hands wrapping ice pack in towel.

    Medicines

    Over-the-counter pain relievers include acetaminophen and anti-inflammatory medicines. These include aspirin, naproxen, and ibuprofen. They can help ease discomfort. Some also ease swelling.

    • Tell your healthcare provider about any medicines you are already taking.

    • Take medicines only as directed.

    • Never give aspirin to children or teens without first talking with your child’s healthcare provider.

    Manipulation and massage

    Having spinal manipulation by an osteopathic doctor or chiropractor may be helpful. Getting a massage or acupuncture also may help. Physical therapy can set up an exercise program that works to ease your pain. It's also helps prevent further injuries.

    Heat

    After the first 48 hours, heat can relax sore muscles and improve blood flow.

    • Try a warm bath or shower. Or use a heating pad set on low. To prevent a burn, keep a cloth between you and the heating pad.

    • Don’t use a heating pad for more than 15 minutes at a time. Never sleep on a heating pad. This can cause burns if you have diabetes or other conditions that affect how well you can sense heat.

    Online Medical Reviewer: Joseph Campellone MD
    Online Medical Reviewer: Raymond Kent Turley BSN MSN RN
    Online Medical Reviewer: Rita Sather RN
    Date Last Reviewed: 3/1/2022
    © 2000-2024 The StayWell Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This information is not intended as a substitute for professional medical care. Always follow your healthcare professional's instructions.
    horizontal line

    Southern New Mexico
    Surgery Center

    2301 Indian Wells Rd. Suite B
    Alamogordo, NM 88310
    www.snmsc.org

    Phone: 575.437.0890
    Fax: 575.437.0905
    Email: info@snmsc.org

    Disclaimer