Do I need urgent care for back pain after lifting weights?

Question

Hi doctor,

While working out today, I was doing a shoulder press. I was doing it too fast, and at one point, I got a sharp pain in my back, near where my ribs meet my spine. Since then, I have also been having very sharp pain when inhaling and exhaling, as well as when rotating my torso or neck.

Do I need to go to urgent care? Currently, I am taking Zyrtec, Amino acid supplements for energy and muscle recovery, hormonal IUD. Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

It looks like you have a muscle spasm or strain. You can use over-the-counter Motrin 600 mg (Ibuprofen) twice or thrice a day with a meal for two to three days, and there are topical analgesics available for a gentle massage. It will get better within two to three days. If it does not get relieved, you can see your doctor. Take a rest from the shoulder exercise for a week. Get immediate help if you feel that this pain is significantly disturbing breathing activity.

For more information, consult an internal medicine physician online.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.