I Hurt My Back – What Should I Do?

It happens to the best of us. We are feeling great one moment, and then we move wrong, sleep wrong, or misjudge our strengths and our back screams in pain. Back injuries are never something that should be lightly dismissed. Instead, follow these simple steps right after a back injury to ensure your back heals properly and that you get the care you need.

• Stop rigorous activities. Take it easy. Whether you are in the middle of moving or just started a friendly pick-up game, consider yourself out of service. You should avoid picking up heavy items and vigorous exercise until you get your doctor’s go ahead. Pushing past your body’s limits will only make the injury worse and possibly permanent.
• During the first 72 of back pain, use ice treatment only. After the 72 hour period, alternate between ice and heat treatment.
• Stay away from the carbs. Once you hurt your back, it is a good idea to take a break from the high-carb meals. Carbohydrates can make inflammation of the joints worse. Instead, put yourself on a mini-diet of protein and fresh produce.
• Get your back checked out right away. It is very wise to make a same-day appointment with your doctor to make sure everything is fine with your back. Chances are you are just fine, and your back will be better in a few days. However, it is always better to be safe than sorry.
• With the blessing of your doctor, visit the chiropractor. Your doctor will most likely prescribe you pain medication or advise you to take over the counter painkillers for your injury. A better alternative is to visit your local chiropractor. A chiropractor can relieve pain and help your back heal properly. Be sure to tell the chiropractor what you did so that they can best assist you with your injury. Frequent chiropractor visits may be necessary to get your back healthy.
• Do back stretches and exercises daily to build up your back strength. Your doctor or chiropractor may have good suggestions on which moves you should do. No matter how great the pain is, don’t resort to sitting or lying down all day to nurse your back pain. Instead, do light walking and stretching to keep your back flexible and on the road to healing.

Back injuries can be serious, especially if you do not treat them right when they first happen. Your whole body relies on the health of your back and spine, so treat them right.