After three days you can try using heat. If heat does not help, go back to using ice. Remember to rest. Lack of sleep and increased stress worsens back pain. Your medical practitioner may suggest anti-inflammatory or pain medication.
Exercise is essential.
You should start doing light exercises as soon as you can tolerate them. Your physical therapist and your clinician will help you find exercises that are suitable for your back problem. They also will help you advance to a higher level of exercise and activity. It is important to be examined so that you will know what kind of exercises are good for your individual condition. Any exercise which makes you feel worse should be discontinued until you consult with your clinician.