Question: Hi,
My car door hit my back a few weeks ago -- and I still have pain and a black and blue mark on my back where it smacked into me. (It closed as I was reaching into my car to try to take out my two big dogs). I have pain in my back and neck -- and am wondering if this is normal or potentially dangerous... and how long I can expect the pain (and bruising) to last. I work out daily -- but my back aches when I run (FYI: I've NEVER had back trouble before). I have continued to exercise for the most part-- but I now am using the elliptical instead of running outside (or on a treadmill) because it hurts when my feet pound the pavement. It even hurts a bit when I walk... I thought it would just go away with time but it's been a few weeks so am getting slightly worried. I also just wanted to make sure that this is what likely caused the bruise on my lower back ... I didn't notice it until about a week later (not that I looked)... And that there would not be another reason for a black and blue mark on my back like some terrible disease. I have NO OTHER symptoms... no high blood pressure (it's always very low) don't smoke, drink, am a vegetarian ... Also, the pain seems to be getting better but it's lingering (and is mostly concentrated in the lower left near the bruising).. Thanks very much.

Thanks very much! I was worried it might be some dread disorder. When you say to avoid sll "painful activities" does that include using the elliptical given it doesn't hurt that much while I'm actually working out... Or do you think that is further irritating it and delaying the healing process? I really feel a lot better when I exercise (generally speaking) though I really don't like this lower back pain. Please advise. Also: Is it possible I strained the muscles in my neck as a result of shifting my weight or position or something to avoid putting pressure on this tender area the lower left part of my back)? So... The best way to treat it is to apply heat -- not ice??? Thanks very much! Sorry.. I thought of one more question: Do you think a massage might help speed the healing/pain relief -- or could it potentially make it worse (if there's a muscle tear)? What about acupuncture? Thanks again!

OK. Thanks very much. Your answer was very helpful and reassuring.

I hate not working out but guess haste makes waste -- and it will never heal or will take a lot longer f I don't take a break. So I'll limit my exercise mainly to to walking over the next few days to give my back some time off. I'll also apply heat -- and hopefully that and time will do the trick! Thank you very much again, XXXXX