Ice for Back Pain Relief

Using ice to relieve back pain or strains is easy, cheap and effective.

Whilst damage to your back can have several possible causes - lifting, sudden bending or movement, poor posture - to name a few.

For severe pain, your doctor may be able to prescribe strong painkillers. 

Otherwise, you may well find that your physician simple advises:-

• rest (but not too much bed rest) for 24-48 hours
• over the counter medications
• icepacks or the application of heat

If in doubt, always consult your doctor, as back pain can sometimes be a symptom of other bodily ailments.

Why and How does an Ice Pack work?   

1. The application of ice helps to slow the inflammation and reduce swelling
2. Ice helps to reduce the pain

Whilst it is NOT advised to apply directly to the skin, wrapping a teatowel or towel around it will help protect sensitive skin and prevent skin damage.

Helpful Hints

• The sooner ice is applied, the more effective it is likely to be. 
• Apply for a maximum of 15-20 minutes.
• Don't have an ice pack, a bag of frozen peas wrapped in a towel will do just as good a job!
• Ice is most effective if used within 48 hours of straining your back
• If spasms continue, use ice at regular intervals
• never apply ice to someone's back without warning, as you could cause further spasms

After the first 48 hours, you may find that warmth will start to help.  Try relaxing in a warm bath or placing a well wrapped hot water bottle on the affected area.

Please Note:- If you have a known medical condition, please consult your physician before application of ice.

Further Information

Products to reduce pain - whether it's mattresses, chairs or whatever, it's possible to help prevent further damage to your back and to strengthen the muscles around it

Pain Relief - alternative therapies and options to help reduce discomfort and allow increased movement