Don’t rest an achy back
Doctors used to prescribe bed rest for back pain. But now we know that lying still is one of the worst things you can do.
It can make back pain worse and lead to other complications. Don’t rest for more than a day or two.
It’s important to get up and slowly start moving again. Exercise has been found to be one of the most effective ways to relieve back pain quickly.
Try swimming, walking, or yoga.
Ice and heat
Regular applications of ice to the painful areas on your back may help reduce pain and inflammation from an injury. Try this several times a day for up to 20 minutes each time.
Wrap the ice pack in a thin towel to protect your skin. After a few days, switch to heat.
Apply a heating pad or warm pack to help relax your muscles and increase blood flowing to the affected area. You also can try warm baths to help with relaxation.
To avoid burns and tissue damage, never sleep on a heating pad.
