back pain

[pulut]

On April 14 last week,i was carrying my backpack,working and walking around,and all of a sudden i felt a "pop" in my lower back area.My backspack,containing my 1.5ltr full water bottle,some documents and some random stuff,wasn't too heavy compared to my field pack(which i had no problem carrying for long walks or route marches) during my military days,It was very painful and i thought i had slipped disc,but i guess not since it was not that type pain till u can't do anything at all.Basically,whenever i stand up from a sitting or lying flat position,there would be the sharp pain.Then the pain "healed itself" after bout 5days,so i thought it was a minor strain in my back.Today,bout 2pm,just after i got out of my car after driving it for 15mins,the backpain was back!Is it serious?Should i go for a xray?Need advice.

[pulut]

Thanks for  your advice,shall try out the ice method. :)

[kittyluv1]

Based on your young age and the absence of any significant trauma, the pain may be related to muscle strain that has not been completely resolved.  The fact that your pain is increased with positional changes and lengthy periods of sitting etc lends support to this probability.  Disc herniations could produce similar pain, but are usually accompanied by other neurological changes.
Using anti-inflammatory medications and applying ice to the affected areas will help reduce the swelling and inflammation associated with muscle strains.  If the pain remains constant and you develop any other symptoms such as pain in the buttocks or leg, it would be advisable to make an appt with your primary care physician for a medical evaluation.
Baseline x-rays could determine whether or not there are any significant problems with your lumbar spine.  A referral for a short course of physical therapy and instruction in a home exercise program to strengthen the back could be helpful.
Post with an update and any additional questions/concerns you may have.
Best wishes ----