Most moderate cases of back pain involve the lower back, or lumbar area of the spine, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Self-care remedies can provide pain relief, calm the inflammation and promote rehabilitation. Back problems caused by vertebral or disc injury or degeneration, however, may need medical intervention. In any case, beginning home treatment immediately when symptoms arise won't exacerbate spinal problems and may prevent further musculoskeletal damage.
Activity Management
The University of Maryland Medical Center reports that managing activity levels provides pain relief, puts a stop to the cause of stress and pain, and strengthens the lower back. Patients with muscle strains to the upper or lower back should rest for 24 to 72 hours following injury.
When pain and inflammation diminish, patients should gradually return to daily activities, work and exercise. Serious strains or tears to muscle tissue may benefit by a professionally guided physical therapy program. Prolonged immobility is counterproductive and not recommended.
Pain Relief Medication
Short-term pain relief should address inflammation, to promote self-healing and get patients back on their feet. The UM Medical Center recommends nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen. In more severe back pain cases, a doctor's prescription for muscle relaxants or stronger analgesic medications may be necessary.
Temperature Therapy
Hot and cold compresses are especially effective at local pain relief for the lower back. They are cost-effective and appropriate for all ages and physical conditions, and they can be applied as often as necessary.
The Cleveland Clinic suggests alternating hot and cold therapy. A hot bath or shower will warm muscles, or a reusable gel pack can be microwaved and applied to the back for 20 minutes. Another gel pack chilled in the refrigerator can then be placed on the back for 20 minutes at a time.
Posture Aids
Pain in the back caused by poor posture may be remedied with ergonomic furniture or orthopedic aids. Chronic pain that comes on gradually may be due to old or inadequate mattresses, pillows or desk chairs.
The American Chiropractic Association reports that buying bedding and chairs that are ergonomically designed and testing them for personal fit may remedy pain. Supportive shoes or custom-made orthotic inserts can help people with standing posture irregularities.
Surgery
Surgery is most commonly indicated for musculoskeletal damage accompanied by pain, and not chronic inflammatory conditions. Disc rupture, vertebral fracture or nerve impingement may indicate surgical procedures that include discectomy or spinal fusion, the Cleveland Clinic relates.
