Back pain, particularly lower back pain, is very common. It usually improves within a few weeks but can sometimes last longer or keep coming back. There are things you can do to help ease the pain such as:

DO

• stay active and try to continue with your daily activities
• take anti-inflammatory medicine like ibuprofen – paracetamol on its own is not recommended for back pain but it may be used with another painkiller
• use an ice pack (or bag of frozen peas) wrapped in a tea towel to reduce pain and swelling
• use a heat pack (or hot water bottle) wrapped in a tea towel to relieve joint stiffness or muscle spasms
• try doing some exercises and stretches for back pain

DON'T

• do not stay in bed for long periods of time

For more information and advice about new or worsening back pain, please see NHS Inform