A sore back often settles down or improves within 6 weeks with rest. Rest for only 1 or 2 days if your back pain is severe, because prolonged bed rest can reduce your muscle strength and lead to further disability.

These steps can help you treat back pain at home:

• Apply cold, then heat. Sources of heat and cold, such as a hot bath and hot or cold compresses, can soothe sore and inflamed muscles. Use cold treatment first. Immediately after injuring your back, apply ice several times a day, for up to 20 minutes at a time. Put the ice in a bag, then wrap the bag in a cloth or towel to keep a thin barrier between the ice and your skin. Use ice for as long as spasms persist. After spasms and acute pain subside, you can apply heat from a heating pad or heat lamp to help loosen tight muscles. Limit each heat application to 20 minutes.

• Use pain relievers. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) may help control pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) also can reduce inflammation.

• Consider limited use of a support brace or corset. Back braces and corsets can relieve strain and support your back. However, some devices may be uncomfortable. Another drawback is that your back muscles may weaken with prolonged use of a brace or corset. It's best to use a brace or corset only for short periods or during back-straining activities. Braces and corsets are available over-the-counter at pharmacies and medical supply stores. Your doctor also may prescribe a brace customized for your back.