What should I do if I sprain my waist and it hurts when I move?

Recommendations for relieving "a sprained waist, painful upon movement":

1. Immediate rest: Stop all activity immediately and rest in a lying position to avoid further injury. When lying down, place a soft pillow under the waist to relieve pressure.

2. Cold and heat application: Within 48 hours of the sprain, apply a cold pack to reduce swelling and pain. After 48 hours, switch to heat therapy to promote blood circulation and speed up recovery.

3. Medication: Over-the-counter non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen capsules, can temporarily relieve pain and inflammation. Additionally, topical medications such as bruise-relieving ointments or patches (e.g., Yunnan Baiyao, Huoxue Zhitong膏) may be used.

4. Physical therapy: Includes heat therapy, electrotherapy, ultrasound, and other treatments to promote blood circulation and accelerate recovery.

5. Rehabilitation exercises: Once the pain has subsided, gradually begin strengthening exercises for the lower back muscles to enhance spinal stability and prevent future injuries.

If the pain persists or worsens, seek immediate medical attention to rule out serious conditions such as fractures or lumbar disc herniation.