Brief Answer:
Warm compresses would be very helpful- further details on helpful measures below

Detailed Answer:
Hello and welcome to "Ask a Doctor" service,

I carefully read your query and understand your concern.

Warm compresses may be used in case of low back pain as this may help the muscles relax and be less tender. You may use warm pads (be cautious of getting burned, do not apply on bare skin), for 20-30 minutes on the most painful areas, a few times a day.

On the other hand, as for Aleve, sometimes an anti-inflammatory dose is needed to help with the pain and this is 600-800 mg every 6 hours after food (if it causes stomach discomfort you should not use Aleve). Omeprazole 20 mg 30 minutes before breakfast can be added to protect your stomach. You may also add paracetamol 500 mg to the Aleve every 6 hours.

Also, a physiotherapist would be very beneficial as they identify the most painful points and press them to help muscles relax. Also, a physiotherapist may give you exercises to strengthen certain muscles that may be weak and help the pain improve faster.

Finally, try to avoid bending your back when you need to take something from the ground. You should use your knees instead, especially now that the pain is severe. Even though you have pain, you should try to keep active as much as the pain allows you. Bed rest is not recommended as it may make the back pain last longer.

Normally the pain should be better in a week or so. If you are not better with these measures in two weeks or you are any worse or if you develop any neurological signs such as numbness or weakness in the legs, or any problem controlling your urine or bowel or if you have numbness in the genital area you will need to see your doctor and rule out problems with the spine.

I hope this answers your query. Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards,
Dr. Antoneta Zotaj
General and Family Physician

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