We've all been witness to a comedy sketch in which a person bends over and a loud crack is heard
. For the remainder of the television sitcom they'll walk around hunched over until someone grabs them from behind and pulls them up. After another even louder crack they claim they are cured. Unfortunately, this is not the case in real life.
When someone suffers from acute back pain it's really important to treat the root cause of that pain. If it's the result of an injury such as a motor vehicle accident, or in the case of a teenager, a sports related injury, back pain therapy will most likely include several steps.
The first step will be treating the area with heat. This is normally done with a heating pad. It is placed on the area where the pain is radiating from for a prescribed length of time. It can be done several times a day depending on what the doctor suggests.
Ice can also be effective in relieving some of the pain associated with a back injury. The premise is the same as in a heat treatment. A cold pack is placed on the back and this is repeated several times over the course of the day.
If the injury is severe enough to warrant medication you will most likely be prescribed a pain reliever in addition to a muscle relaxant. The muscle relaxant will not only relax your back muscles but your entire body as well. It is always suggested that you carefully follow your doctor's instructions when taking any type of medication.
Exercise will also be a very important part of your recovery. When you spend time with a physical therapist they will give you a series of exercises that are designed to help relieve the pain as well as build up the muscles in your back. Any type of exercise regime will begin with a series of stretches. Although you may feel these are a waste of time, you should never forego them for any reason. The stretches are designed to warm up the muscles of your back so when you do exercise them they will not be damaged by the sudden movement.
Once your back is beginning to feel better, your therapist may suggest even more exercise. Anything from a brisk walk to a Pilates class has benefits for your back. You will feel the muscles in your back begin to strengthen which allows you to do more. Before lifting weights it's a good idea to consult with your therapist or a physician. They will be able to instruct you on the best approach and whether it's a good time for you to begin such a program.