Treatment for a minor back injury includes:
- Rest the back.
- Avoid bedrest.
- Return to walking as soon as possible.
- Avoid activities that cause back pain.
- Apply cold compresses:
- Wrap ice in a moist hand towel. Do not apply ice directly to the skin.
- Apply for 20-30 minutes, every 1-2 hours, for the first few days.
- Apply warm compresses:
- Apply for 20-30 minutes, every 1-2 hours, after 2 days
- After 2-3 days, start:
- Back stretching exercises
- Back range of motion exercises
- Acetaminophen for pain
- Ibuprofen for pain
Additional treatment for a back injury may also include:
- Narcotic pain medication
- Back strengthening exercises
- Massage therapy for the back
- Physical therapy for the back
- Ultrasound therapy
- Back injury clinical trials
A severe back injury may require surgery, such as:
- Laminectomy
- Vertebroplasty
- Spinal fusion
- Disk surgery
