Back Pain in Children: Care Instructions

Overview

In most cases, there isn't a clear cause for back pain. It may be related to problems with muscles and ligaments of the back. It may also be related to problems with the nerves, discs, or bones of the back. Moving, lifting, standing, sitting, or sleeping in an awkward way can strain the back.

Although it may hurt a lot, back pain usually improves on its own within several weeks. Most children recover in 12 weeks or less. Using self-care, such as heat or ice and light activity (like walking), can help your child feel better sooner.

Follow-up care is a key part of your child's treatment and safety. Be sure to make and go to all appointments, and call your doctor if your child is having problems. It's also a good idea to know your child's test results and keep a list of the medicines your child takes.

How can you care for your child at home?

• Have your child sit or lie in positions that are most comfortable and reduce your child's pain. Your child can try one of these positions when lying down. Have your child:

  • Lie on their back with knees bent and supported by large pillows.

  • Lie on the floor with both legs on the seat of a sofa or chair.

  • Lie on the side with knees and hips bent and a pillow between the legs.

  • Lie on the stomach if it does not make pain worse.

• Bed rest can help relieve pain at first, but it delays healing. Avoid bed rest after the first day.

• Have your child change positions every 30 minutes. If your child must sit for long periods of time, try to take breaks from sitting. Have your child get up and walk around or lie in a comfortable position.

• Try using a heating pad on a low or medium setting for 15 to 20 minutes every 2 or 3 hours.

• Try a warm shower in place of one session with the heating pad.

• You can also try an ice pack on your child's back for 10 to 15 minutes at a time. Put a thin cloth between the ice pack and your child's skin.

• Be safe with medicines. Give pain medicines exactly as directed.

  • If the doctor gave your child a prescription medicine for pain, give it as prescribed.

  • If your child is not taking a prescription pain medicine, ask your doctor if your child can take an over-the-counter medicine.

• Have your child take short walks several times a day. Your child can start with 5 to 10 minutes, 3 to 4 times a day, and work up to longer walks. Your child should stick to level surfaces and avoid hills and stairs until your child's back is better.

• Have your child return to activities as soon as they can. Continued rest without activity is usually not good for your child's back.

• To prevent future back pain, ask your doctor about exercises your child can do to stretch and strengthen the back and stomach. Teach your child how to use good posture, safe lifting techniques, and proper body mechanics.

When should you call for help?

Call 911 anytime you think your child may need emergency care. For example, call if:

Call your doctor now or seek immediate medical care if:

Watch closely for changes in your child's health, and be sure to contact your doctor if:

Current as of: July 17, 2023

Content Version: 14.0

Care instructions adapted under license by your healthcare professional. If you have questions about a medical condition or this instruction, always ask your healthcare professional. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.