Back injury: muscular

After 48-72 hours

By this point your back may feel slightly better. It is now time to start moving around more. Making gentle movements, such as stretching forward slowly, can release the tightened muscles. Gentle slow walking can also help work the muscles around your back.

Help with pain management

Simple analgesics can be used after injury, most of which can be bought over the counter in shops, supermarkets or pharmacy’s. Examples are:

•        Paracetamol
•        Ibuprofen

You may have been prescribed an alternative pain killer, please refer to specific advice for that tablet if this is the case.

Recovery after an back injury

Most injuries take 2-3 weeks to recover but can sometimes take up to 6 weeks to be completely comfortable.

You may have been given a follow-up appointment with a back specialist or physiotherapist. It is important that you keep your appointment to make sure your back gets completely better.

Further advice

If any of the following symptoms occur after back injury, then you must attend your local Emergency Department:

• Altered sensation or numbness around your bottom or in both your legs.
• Any sexual dysfunction.
• New incontinence either passing water or opening your bowels unexpectedly.
• Unable to pass water.
• Worsening ability to walk.

If you have any other ongoing concerns or queries about your back injury you should contact NHS 111 or your local GP.