Usually the middle or lower part of the back is involved. The pain is worsened by bending. The muscles on either side of the spine are tender or in spasm. Mainly occurs in adolescents. The pain and discomfort are usually gone in 1 to 2 weeks.
Recurrences are common.
HOME CARE Pain-relief medicines Give acetaminophen or ibuprofen four times a day. Continue this medicine until 24 hours have passed without any pain. This is the most important part of the therapy because back pain causes muscle spasm and these medicines can greatly reduce both the spasm and the pain. A heating pad or hot water bottle applied to the most painful area for 20 minutes helps to relieve muscle spasm. Do this whenever the pain flares up.