Mr. Warren J. Strudwick, M.D.

Sure, your son may benefit from massage therapy. But I would want more information about his history of back pain before making that as a recommended treatment. How often and how intense is his pain? How long does it last. Is there pain or numbness in his legs associated with the back pain? Has he had xrays or an MRI ? After these question are answered, a treatment plan can be developed for your son.

I tend to recommend ice therapy after the acute onset of a back strain. And in combination with rest and the short-term use anti-inflammatory meds, symptoms usually can be controlled. Of course there no widespread agreement on the use of heat therapy vs. cold therapy. The benefits of heat therapy is a soothing resolution of the pain and an increased blood flow to the injured area. This may promote healing but may also create swelling and increased aching pain. So if you choose to use heat, put some ice on it afterwards to decrease the swelling and aching pain.

The hot shower will sooth the pain, but also may increase swelling and aching pain afterward the soothing effect wears off. I would recommend icing after you get out of the shower to prevent the aching symptoms.