Low Back First Aid (after a severe accident)
If you have had a fall or crash or sustained some sort of impact to your back and heard any noises like a pop or a crack, or you’re feeling any weakness or different sensations in one or both of your legs, you should do the following. Firstly, I need you to pause the video and make sure you aren’t experiencing any of the ‘red flags’ below:
** RED FLAGS **
If you are experiencing any of the following please consult a doctor asap or go to the emergency department of your hospital.
- Losing control of your bowel or bladder
- Feeling dizzy or losing balance
- Feeling weak or numb anywhere in your body
- Persistent pins + needles
- Feeling nauseous or vertigo
- Feeling faint
- Have double vision
- Having problems with your speech or swallowing
- Have a fever or night sweats
For more information about ‘red flags’ watch this video (click here).
What you should do first is sit or lay in a position of relative comfort and position pillows to try and support your back.
You should apply an ice pack, for up to 20 mins every two hours. Just be sure to put something between the ice pack and your skin, such as a towel or ice pack holder and make sure you check every few minutes for any skin irritation.
Avoid massaging or putting heat on the area and avoid drinking alcohol as all of these may increase any inflammation that may be present.
You should avoid any excessive movement including walking, or any movements that increase you pain or leg symptoms until you have been assessed by a health professional.
I recommend that you try and see a doctor as soon as possible or go to the emergency department of your hospital, so they can rule out anything serious like a fracture and then guide you to the appropriate health professional for rehabilitation.