BACK: LOWER BACK INJURIES

Back injuries include bruises, muscle sprains, strains and spasms, ruptured discs, and stress fractures of the spine. The risk for back injury increases with any extra weight, poor posture, decreased strength or flexibility, not bending or lifting the right way, and hard blows or falls. Overuse Injuries of the back are caused by poor posture and arthritis.

Tips to protect your back:

When lifting heavy items, bend your knees, not your back. Do not jerk or lunge to lift the load.
Sleep on your side with your legs drawn up slightly toward your chest. Do not sleep on your stomach.
Stretch and move often when sitting for long periods of time. Use a small pillow for back support.
Lose extra pounds if you are overweight.

Fitness affects lower back health. Aerobic exercise and strong stomach muscles decrease the risk for back injuries. Exercise helps to strengthen and keep the back more flexible. Avoid any exercises that increase the risk of low back pain. Seek help with a back-safe exercise program taught by a certified instructor. Stay within your physical limits. If an exercise causes pain, stop doing the exercise. Sudden back injuries usually heal on their own within weeks.

For sudden injuries to the back, like strains, sprains, and bruises, apply an ice pack for no more than 20 minutes 4 to 8 times a day. A heating pad on low can also be put on the back for no more than 20 minutes 4 to 8 times a day. Rest, ice or heat, and over-the-counter, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin, or ibuprofen, will help relieve minor low back pain. Aspirin or medicines that have aspirin in them should not be given to anyone younger than 18 years of age. Taking aspirin is a risk for a serious illness called Reye's syndrome. NSAIDs should be taken with food or milk to prevent stomach upset. NSAIDs should not be taken by anyone who has been diagnosed with asthma, ulcer disease, or a bleeding disorder. Taking NSAIDs increases the risk of bleeding with trauma, dental work, surgery, or if taking blood thinners (anticoagulants).

Seek the advice of a healthcare provider if there is any change in the ability to move normally or for any ongoing or severe back pain.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

HIL File BACK4206.rf2 VRS# 4206 (See SPOR3345) Data Version 7.0