Lower back pain can happen for many different reasons. It can come on slowly or suddenly and be a dull ache or sharp stabbing pain. It usually gets better within a few weeks. Follow these instructions to care for your child.
- Your child should try to continue with regular activities. Bed rest is not recommended. They can go to school, drive, and do low-impact activities such as walking, biking, or swimming. If the activity makes the pain worse or they feel like they can't continue it, they can take a break and try it later or the next day.
- To ease strain on the back, your child should take a break from heavy lifting.
- Follow your health care provider's recommendations for:
- how long to take a break from sports, high-impact activities, and anything that involves a lot of twisting or bending
- any stretching or strengthening exercises
- seeing a physical therapist
For pain, your child can:
- Take ibuprofen (such as Advil®, Motrin®, or a store brand), if recommended by your health care provider. Follow the directions on the label for how much they should take and how often.
- Put a cold pack on the back for 15–20 minutes every 3–4 hours for the first few days after the injury. Place a towel or cloth between the cold pack and the skin.
- After 2-3 days, apply a heating pad or heat pack to the back, massage the area, or soak in a warm tub once or twice a day.
What causes lower back pain? Lower back pain may be caused by:
- lifting heavy objects
- sitting in one position for too long
- sports or activities that involve a lot of twisting or bending
- other medical conditions
What can help prevent back pain? It may help for your child to:
- Work with a sports trainer to make sure they don't overtrain and that they warm up and cool down correctly.
- Avoid carrying very heavy objects.
- Get plenty of physical activity to keep muscles strong.
- Stay at a healthy weight.
