Please help me with my back pain

[Anotherunimaginativeusername]

Not posting for medical advice as I will be contacting GP. But just after advice on how to manage back pain...I think I probably have a slipped disc. It was unbelievably painful to the point of fainting earlier and i don't have a low pain threshold. Honestly I didn't know what what dovwith myself, it was so painful. It happened when I went to lift my 18m old out of the cot although it was already a bit sore. He's quite clingy/demanding and wants to be carried a lot which I think is probably what's brought it on especially as he has been poorly for 2 days so lots of carrying on my hip. I'm alternating paracetamol & ibuprofen. Trying to keep moving and avoid sitting. Any other tips?

Any ideas on how long this acute pain phase will last? I can barely sit and when I do sit or lie down it takes me 10 mins to get up and moving again. I've had a few episodes of lower back pain since having my youngest (18m now) but this is by far the worst.

Any advice gratefully received.

I’ve had a slipped disc with sciatica and know how unbearable it can be. Do ring 111 if you are finding the pain unbearable, as you probably need some stronger painkillers. Do you have any Co-codamol, or can someone get you some?

Try alternating ice and heat for 20 mins at a time, and it’s important to keep mobile as well as rest. Avoid sitting as that places the greatest strain on the spine.

Place a firm cushion or pillow between your knees if lying on your side, or under your knees if on your back.

Once the acutely phase has passed some gentle stretching exercises will be helpful.