Being sick is uncomfortable, and adding back pain to the mix of symptoms can make recovery even harder. Whether you’re dealing with a respiratory infection, stomach virus, or something else– body aches are common, and the back is often one of the first places you’ll feel it. Understanding why back pain occurs during illness, and how to treat it, can help you feel better faster. Continue reading to learn more about the causes of back pain during illness, how to relieve your symptoms, and when to seek professional care.
For same-day illness testing and treatment, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Denver Highlands. Our center is open 7 days a week– providing the highest quality of care to all patients in the Denver, CO area. Simply walk-in or pre-register your visit below.
Why Does Your Back Hurt When You’re Sick?
Back pain during illness can steam from several causes, including:
- Muscle Strain: Frequent coughing or sneezing puts repeated strain on your back and abdominal muscles, especially in your lower and mid-back.
- Fever and Inflammation: Infections often cause your body to release chemicals that trigger inflammation, which can lead to muscle aches, joint pain, and stiffness, especially in the back.
- Dehydration: Illness often leads to decreased fluid intake or fluid loss (through fever, vomiting, or diarrhea), which can cause muscle cramps and discomfort in the back and other areas.
- Poor Posture: Spending long hours lying in bed or on the couch without proper support can result in stiffness and pain in the spine and surrounding muscles.
At-Home Remedies For Back Pain Relief
If your back pain is mild and related to an illness, here are a few strategies that may help alleviate discomfort:
1. Apply Heat or Ice
Heat therapy can help relax tight muscles and improve circulation. Use a heating pad or warm compress on your back for 15-20 minutes at a time. If your back pain feels sharp or inflamed, cold therapy might be better. Use a cold pack or ice wrapped in a towel to reduce inflammation.
2. Adjust Your Resting Position
When you’re sick, it’s common to lie in bed for extended periods. Unfortunately, improper positioning while resting can put stress on your spine and muscles. Avoid sleeping flat on your back without support. Use supportive pillows to slightly elevate your upper body. Small adjustments can prevent your back from stiffening.
3. Stay Gently Active When Possible
Even when you’re sick, movement matters. While strenuous activity is not advised, gentle stretching or short walks can keep your muscles from becoming stiff. Listen to your body– never push through fatigue or dizziness. A little movement and stretching can go a long way in reducing pain and aiding recovery.
4. Drink Water
Hydration plays a key role in muscle function. When you’re dehydrated, muscles can cramp more easily and your body may struggle to flush out toxins contributing to inflammation. Drink plenty of fluids to help support your recovery from illness and back pain.
5. Use Over-the-Counter Pain Medications
Medications like acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil) can help relieve both back pain and other symptoms like fever or headache. Be sure to follow dosage instructions and ask your provider what’s best to take.
When To Visit Urgent Care
Back pain during an illness usually resolves with rest and basic care, but there are times when medical evaluation is necessary. Visit an urgent care center if:
- The pain is severe or worsening
- You have trouble walking or moving comfortably
- The pain is accompanied by high fever, chest pain, or shortness of breath
- You suspect the pain is unrelated to your illness, such as from a fall or injury
A medical provider can evaluate your symptoms, rule out more serious causes, and offer targeted treatment, including prescription medications or referrals if needed.
Get Walk-In Back Pain Relief & Illness Treatment at AFC Urgent Care Denver Highlands
Don’t let back pain make your recovery harder. At AFC Urgent Care Denver Highlands, we offer fast, compassionate care for common illnesses, musculoskeletal pain, and more. Our team can assess your symptoms, provide safe pain relief options, and help you feel better quickly. We can also provide further guidance on which underlying condition you’re dealing with and how to treat it properly. No appointment is necessary– just walk-in today! We provide quality, affordable, and convenient care for patients of all ages. If you have any additional questions about back pain treatment, or other services we provide, please call our medical office directly at (303) 477-6000.
