When you first feel back pain, try these steps to avoid or reduce pain

Relax. Find a comfortable position

for rest. Some people are comfortable on

the floor or a medium-firm bed with

a small pillow under their head and

another under their knees. Some

people prefer to lie on their side

with a pillow between their

knees. Don't stay in one position for too long

Walk. Take a short walk (10 to 20 minutes) on

a level

surface (no slopes, hills, or stairs) every

2 to 3 hours. Walk only

distances you can manage without

pain, especially leg pain

Take pain medicine if needed, such

as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or

medicines that reduce pain, swelling, and

irritation, including

ibuprofen (such as Advil or Motrin) or

naproxen (such as Aleve

or Naprosyn). These medicines usually

work best if you take them

on a regular schedule instead of waiting

until the pain is severe

Try heat or ice. Try using a heating pad on a low or

medium setting, or a warm

shower, for 15 to 20 minutes

every 2 to 3 hours. Or you can buy

single-use heat wraps that last up

to 8 hours. You can also try an ice

pack for 10 to 15 minutes

every 2 to 3 hours. You can use an

ice pack or a bag of frozen

vegetables wrapped in a thin

towel. There is not strong

evidence that either heat or ice will help, but you can

try them to see if they help. You may also

want to try switching between heat and cold

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