(HealthDay News) -- The effects of low back pain can range from a mild inconvenience to debilitating. Some pain may go away on its own after the back has had a chance to heal, but sometimes surgery may be needed.

Here are potential treatments to help ease low back pain, courtesy of the U.S. National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke:

• Pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory medications.
• A cold compress immediately after the injury to reduce swelling.
• Heat on the back several days after the injury to help relax muscles.
• A short period of bed rest to allow muscles to heal.
• Gentle exercises to stretch and strengthen back muscles.