Pain is not a diagnosis but a symptom. Mattress Answer Man is not a medical professional. If you have back pain I would suggest you consult a physician.
Most lower back pain can be treated without surgery. Most with back pain recover without residual functional loss. See a professional if there isn't a noticeable reduction in pain and swelling.
Ice and Heat have never been proven scientifically proven to Quickly resolve low back injury. They may help to reduce pain and swelling allowing greater mobility for some people. As soon as possible after a trauma you should apply a cold pack or compress to the tender spot. Several times a day up to 20 minutes. After 2 or 3 days of cold treatment you should start to apply heat to relax muscles and increase blood flow. Do not sleep on heating pad it can cause burns and cause more damage.
Bed Rest 1-2 days at most. Studies have shown that bed rest alone may make back pain worse and can lead to other complications. You should resume activities as soon as possible. During rest on their side putting a pillow between your legs or some doctors suggest resting on your back with a pillow under your knees.
Exercise helps speed recovery from low back pain. Maintaining and building muscle strength is very important for people with skeletal irregularities. These exercises may include stretching, swimming, walking, movement therapy to develop better coordination and correct posture. Yoga is another way to ease pain and stretch muscles.There may be discomfort at the start of these exercises if it is more than mild or lasts more than 15 min. Stop exercising and contact a doctor
Medications:
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Analgesics over the counter including non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(example- aspirin,naproxen,and ibuprofen )
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Anticovulsants drugs that teat seizures can also treat certain types of nerve pain
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Antidepressants particularly tricylic antidepressants have show to relieve pain and assist with sleep
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Opioids are often prescribed for acute back pain These can also be harmful do not self prescribe see a professional
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Other spinal manipulation, acupuncture, biofeedback, interventional therapy (surgery), traction, foraminotomy (cleaning out or enlarging the bony hole), idet (thermal energy to treat pain), nucleoplasty (radio frequency energy is used), radiofrequency lesioning, spinal fusion and spinal laminectomy.
Tips for a Healthier Back
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Always stretch before exercise or other strenuous physical activity
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Don't slouch when standing or sitting. When standing, keep your weight balanced on your feet. Your back supports weight most easily when curvature is reduced
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At home or work, make sure your work surface is at a comfortable height for you
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Sit in a chair with good lumbar support and proper position and height for the task. Keep your shoulders back. Switch sitting positions often and periodically walk around the office or gently stretch muscles to relieve tension. A pillow or rolled-up towel placed behind the small of your back can provide some lumbar support. If you must sit for a long period of time, rest your feet on a low stool or a stack of book
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Wear comfortable, low-heeled shoes.
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Sleep on your side to reduce any curve in your spine. Always sleep on a firm surface.
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Don't try to lift objects too heavy for you. Lift with your knees, pull in your stomach muscles, and keep your head down and in line with your straight back. Keep the object close to your body. Do not twist when lifting.
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Maintain proper nutrition and diet to reduce and prevent excessive weight, especially weight around the waistline that taxes lower back muscles. A diet with sufficient daily intake of calcium, phosphorus, and vitamin D helps to promote new bone growth.
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If you smoke, quit. Smoking reduces blood flow to the lower spine and causes the spinal discs to degenerate.
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