If you have sought professional care for your back pain, your healthcare provider will inquire about any medical condition you may have. After that, he will ask the specific details of your back pain, including when it started and the possible triggers for it. He may also observe how you stand and walk. It is essential for you to mention exactly which parts are painful and what activities aggravate the pain.
As part of your back pain care NYC practitioners may prescribe medication. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are prescribed to aid in pain relief and the decrease of swelling. Acetaminophen, on the other hand, is prescribed to decrease pain. In some instances, a doctor may prescribe prescription pain medicine.
Whatever type of medicine is prescribed for your back pain, it is essential to take it as directed by your physician. If you have allergies to some types of medicines, be sure to inform your doctor. If the medicine does not seem to work or if you notice side effects, inform your doctor at once.
At home, there are a few things that you can do to manage the pain and reduce the swelling. Applying ice can also prevent tissue damage. You can apply ice on your back for 15 to 20 minutes every hour or as directed. You can use either an ice pack or a plastic bag filled with ice cubes or crushed ice.
You can also apply heat on your back for 20 to 30 minutes every two hours or as directed. Applying heat can relieve pain and prevent muscle spasms.
Avoid taking prolonged bed rest. Go on bed rest for the first few days but try to move slowly afterwards. Movement can help facilitate faster healing of back pain. However, avoid heavy lifting movements or activities that involve twisting.
After two weeks, or as directed, contact your healthcare provider. However, you may contact your doctor as soon as possible if the medications do not work, if you have a fever, if your condition worsens when lying on your back, if you have lost weight, or if the pain worsens when you cough or sneeze.
Seek emergency care if one (or both) of your legs becomes numb, painful or weak, if you cannot walk because of the pain, if you have lost control of your urinary or bowel movements, if you experience chest pain, if you vomit, or if the pain spreads to your genital area or sides.
