Self Care Treatment of Back Pain:

Please note that seeking medical advice prior to commencing heat or ice treatment is advised.
The consensus of opinion seems to be that applying ice or heat; or indeed alternating the two to the affected area for 20 minutes at a time and repeated 2-4 hourly will give relief and help reduce the pain. Frozen bags of peas are often used as they are able to mould to the contours of the back. It is important to note that neither hot packs nor ice packs should be applied directly to the skin they should be wrapped in either a light cloth or towel.If you do not notice a reduction in pain and inflammation after 72 hours of self-care you should consult your doctor. However if you have suffered a fall, experience any numbness or tingling in your legs, have difficulty with weakness or have problems with urinating you will need to be seen by a doctor.