Spring Cleaning and Minor Back Pain
You’ve been working hard trying to complete your spring cleaning list. You bend over to grab those last few bags of weed & feed for your lawn when it happens: your body has had enough and pain starts to radiate from your back. The sudden onset of pain can be a scary ordeal, especially if you don’t know what to do or how to treat it.
In “Prevent Spring Back Pain” we discussed methods for reducing your risk of back or neck pain. When it’s too late for prevention, try one of these early treatments for minor back pain:
Get Rest
The first thing any person should do when confronted with a new injury is to stop the activity that caused it. Take a break from physical activity and allow your body a few days to heal. Try to avoid any activities that aggravate your injuries. It’s important to take your time recovering, however too much rest can lead to stiffening of the affected muscles and joints. Sometimes recovery can be a slow process but the key is to gradually work back into your normal routine.
Apply Heat/Ice
Alternating heat and ice to affected areas can have positive health benefits and aid in recovery. Applying heat can relax tense muscles and improve blood flow. Increasing your blood flow brings nutrients and oxygen that your muscles need to heal. If you’re experiencing pain due to inflammation, use ice or cold packs to reduce the swelling and inflammation. Alternating heat and ice can be especially beneficial when recovering from aches and pains. Applying heat can help to relax muscles, allowing for better flexibility and mobility. Applying ice after physical activity reduces inflammation and lowers the chances of becoming irritated or swollen.
Over The Counter Pain Medications
Over the counter medications can be helpful tools for mild aches and pains. The 4 most common medications for mild pain relief are ibuprofen, aspirin, naproxen, and acetaminophen. Aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen are anti-inflammatory medicines and can alleviate aches and pains by reducing the swelling of nerves and muscles. Acetaminophen however, works by disrupting the body’s pain signals sent to the brain. It is important to keep in mind though that all medications carry risks and can have side effects. Read the medication’s directions for the proper dosage and applicable information. If you are unsure what you should be taking for your individual needs, consult with your doctor.
Call William Capicotto MD, PC
If you’re confronted with an injury that doesn’t seem to be getting better with rest, or pain that seems to get worse over time, it could be a sign of a more serious injury and you should contact a doctor. A proper diagnosis is required when determining the best treatment course for your specific injury. The office of William Capicotto MD is here in your time of need and uncertainty. We understand the stress and fear associated with back and spinal injuries and we maintain a commitment to getting our patients back on their feet. Give us a call today at (716) 881-0382.
