Immediate Relief

NECK

Bed rest is usually not necessary, so carry on with light activity if the pain is not prohibiting you, but avoid any extreme movements until your pain disappears. (1:5) (3:45) (12:1)

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory patches (NSAIDs) can be replaced on the painful area to relieve pain and inflammation. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for suggestions. (1:3) (13:1, 2)

It is advisable to treat lower back pain as soon as possible after the trauma. Applying a cooling pack to the area for 20 minutes, several times a day may help. After two or three days of cold treatment, apply a heat pack or pad to the area for a few minutes a day, to relax the muscles. (1:4)

Gently massage and rub the area to promote blood flow and relieve tension. (1:6) (12:1)

Try to slowly stretch the neck, as long as it does not cause severe pain. (2:3) (8:2)

SHOULDER

Rest is often the best thing for shoulder pain from tendonitis but remember that prolonged resting of the joint could cause frozen shoulder. (2:14, 15 ) (7:3)

Shoulder problems are most often first treated with RICE (Rest, Ice, Compression, and Elevation): (7:2)

Rest. Don’t use the shoulder for 48 hours.
Ice. Put an ice pack on the injured area for 20 minutes, four to eight times per day. Use a cold pack, ice bag, or a plastic bag filled with crushed ice wrapped in a towel.
Compression. Put even pressure (compression) on the painful area to help reduce the swelling. A wrap or bandage will help hold the shoulder in place.
Elevation. Keep the injured area above the level of the heart. A pillow under the shoulder will help keep it up.
Non-Steroidal anti-inflammatory patches are available which can be applied directly to the painful area. Ask your doctor or pharmacist about these patches. (9:1)

LOWER BACK

Try to treat lower back pain as soon as possible after the trauma. Applying a cooling pack to the area for 20 minutes, several times a day may help. After two or three days of cold treatment, apply a heat pack or pad to the area for a few minutes a day, to relax the muscles. (2:9)

Bed rest is not necessary. Light activities may help improve flexibility in the back sooner. (2:10) (5:11:12)

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs) can help to alleviate some of the pain. (2:8)

Ask your doctor or pharmacist about non-steroidal anti-inflammatory patches that can be placed on the painful area.