Health Tip: Treating Short-Term Back Pain

(HealthDay News) — Back pain is one of the most common medical issues in the United States, says the National Institutes of Health.

Short-term back pain lasts no longer than six weeks, and can be uncomfortable if untreated.

To treat short-term back pain, the NIH suggests:

• Use hot or cold packs to soothe a sore, stiff back.
• Try extension or aerobic exercises. But check with a doctor first.
• Incorporate stretching into your daily routine.
• Include calcium and vitamin D in your diet, to help keep your spine strong.
• Take acetaminophen, aspirin or ibuprofen to ease pain.