Ice

Ice eases muscle pain and swelling. It helps most during the first 24 to 48 hours after an injury.

• Wrap an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas in a thin towel. Never put ice directly on your skin.

• Place the ice where your back hurts the most.

• Don’t ice for more than 20 minutes at a time.

• You can use ice several times a day.

Medicines

Over-the-counter pain relievers include acetaminophen and anti-inflammatory medicines. These include aspirin, naproxen, and ibuprofen. They can help ease slight pain. Some also ease swelling.

• Tell your health care provider about any medicines you are already taking.

• Take medicines only as directed.

• Always talk to your child's health care provider before giving your child or teen aspirin.

Manipulation and massage

It may help to have a treatment called spinal manipulation. You can go to an osteopathic health care provider or chiropractor for this treatment. Getting a massage or acupuncture may also help. Or you may want to try physical therapy. A physical therapist can set up an exercise program that works to ease your pain. This can also help prevent further injuries.

Heat

After the first 48 hours, heat can relax sore muscles. And it can improve blood flow.

• Try a warm bath or shower. Or use a heating pad set on low. To prevent a burn, keep a cloth between you and the heating pad.

• Don’t use a heating pad for more than 15 minutes at a time. Never sleep on a heating pad. This can cause burns if you have diabetes or other conditions that affect how well you can sense heat.