Precautions for patient with back pain(do's and don'ts)

DO'S AND DON'TS

A sudden attack of back pain can strike at any time- but it does help to be prepared. Remember this advice is for short term, acute back pain only - not necessarily for long-term chronic pain.

First and foremost, DO NOT IGNORE THE PAIN. It is there for a reason - the body's way of telling you something is wrong. It may sound obvious, but the first step is to stop doing whatever started the pain attack in the first place. For example, if you are gardening and feel a sudden sharp twinge, don't be tempted to do "just another five minutes" before it gets dark, or before the rain comes on. Stop what you are doing and ease yourself gently into a more comfortable position.

DO: Use common sense!!!


DO: Lie down immediately! Try lying on your back, while on the floor. Hands by your sides, knees bent and feet on the floor. This takes the pressure off your back by flattening the low back.

DO: If you see swelling, apply an ice pack (or a bag of frozen vegetables from the freezer in an emergency!) if you find it brings relief. Be careful with ice. When applied directly to your skin as it may cause a cold burn. Remember if you see swelling apply ice, otherwise you can use heat. Use common sense and remember this example: if you struck your thumb with a hammer, the thumb would swell and turn read. You would never apply heat (that would cause more swelling, redness and pain) apply ice.

DO: See your doctor after one or two days if the pain is still bad. Before you see him/her do make a few notes on how the pain started, how bad it is, what makes it better/worse etc.

DO: Take painkillers at regular intervals (but no more than the recommended dose, and always read the instructions and especially the contra-indications).

DO: Use a relaxation tape if you have one to help calm the mind and ease body tension. Don't panic. When a low back spasms and you can not walk, this does not mean you are going to be paralyzed.

DO: Use this rest period to look at your lifestyle and try to work out ways of avoiding the problem in future. Resolve to improve your posture and, if necessary, to buy a lumbar roll to help you sit properly. Frankly, the more it hurts and the longer it hurts, the more you will be motivated to improve proper body mechanics and activities of daily living.

DON'T: Be a hero. If it is more comfortable to crawl around on all fours to get to the bathroom than to stand up, then do so.

DON'T: Do any bending, twisting or lifting. Learn the correct techniques. Do not attempt to exercise or stretch the pain away without consulting your doctor.

DON'T: Say no if a partner or friend offers to massage your back. Just ensure they treat you gently and stop them if anything they are doing causes pain. Use common sense.

DON'T: Rush back to the activity which caused the pain, even when you feel much better.