Hello, Thank you for contacting me at Ask a Doctor . I will try to answer your question to the best of my ability. This sounds like a simple back strain. I would continue to treat this conservatively for the moment. Keep as mobile as possible and avoid prolonged sitting. Some gentle stretching will help. Ice will help with pain relief and you can apply heat if you feel that your back is particularly stiff. Take an over-the-counter medications such as Tylenol or ibuprofen for pain relief. No x-rays or scans are needed at this time. Do not worry as I think your symptoms will probably settle down spontaneously over the next few days. However, if the symptoms worsen or you develop any new symptoms, then I would consult with your primary care physician. I hope this information is useful for you. Please do not hesitate to message us back if you have any further questions. Best wishes, Adrian Rawlinson MD