Many things can cause low back injuries--muscle strain or
spasm, sprains of ligaments (which attach bone to bone),
joint problems or a "slipped disk." The most common cause is
using your back muscles in activities you're not used to,
like lifting heavy furniture or doing yard work.
A slipped disk happens when the disk between the bones
bulges and presses on nerves. This is often caused by
twisting while lifting. But many people won't know what
caused their slipped disk.
The
best position for relief when your back hurts is to lie on
your back on the floor with pillows under your knees, with
your hips and knees bent and your feet on a chair, or just
with your hips and knees bent. This takes the pressure and
weight off your back.
If you're resting a hurt back, you may need 1 to 2 days
of this sort of rest. Resting longer than this can cause
your muscles to weaken, which can slow your recovery. Even
if it hurts, walk around for a few minutes every hour.
Heating pads can help to relax painful muscle spasms. Use
heat for 20 to 30 minutes at a time. Ice packs and
massages may also give relief.
Nonprescription medicines that reduce pain or swelling
include aspirin, acetaminophen (brand name: Tylenol),
naproxen (brand name: Aleve), ketoprofen (brand name:
Orudis), and ibuprofen (brand name: Motrin). First consult
you doctor.
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