Commonly characterized by spasms and stiffness in the muscles, ligaments, and tendons, back injuries affect millions of people each year. Often the cause is not obvious, especially since the onset of pain can occur either immediately after an injury or several hours later.

Back injuries may be the result of poor physical condition, bad posture, lack of exercise, excessive body weight, aging, or overexertion while lifting, pushing, or pulling. Even though most back injuries heal by themselves, it's generally recommended that you seek medical attention to check for nerve and spinal damage, sprains, hernias, or ruptured discs.

Generally, a professional can apply hot or cold compresses to increase circulation in your back or utilize special massage techniques to relax painful muscle spasms. Home care for back injuries usually requires lots of bed rest and can include mild stretching exercises, heat or ice applications, massages, braces or corsets, and drugs to reduce pain.

It's important to try to avoid re-injury during the healing process. If you can, rest flat on your back for the first 24 hours and refrain from strenuous activity during the six weeks following your injury. If the injury fails to heal after a prolonged period of time or if nerve or spinal damage is present, hospitalization or surgery may be necessary.

For more information on back injuries, contact us for an appointment.

  3103 West Stolley Park Rd., Grand Island, NE 68801        (800)848-9668