I hurt my back reeeeaaaally bad.?!

I hurt my back reeeeaaaally bad.?

Not sure how, I think maybe because I think I can still carry my 8 year old daughter around. its been hurting for 3 days really bad, I can't really do anything, and it's getting worse. its my upper back all the way across my shoulders but its really like a sharp pain in one area. I have pulled a muscle in my lower back before but it was nothing like this. How can I tell if this is just muscle pain or if it is more serious. I'm trying to avoid going to a dr. at all cost.

2 weeks ago
I know I shouldn't carry her.... that's not my question. I have already hurt my back probably because of carrying her around.... my question is How do I know .... or when should I see a dr. How long can I wait it out to see if it gets better on its own.

Well, lets see ... lower back pain can be either sciatica or a muscle strain. Upper back pain is most commonly the result of muscle strain. Herniated discs and other spinal injuries are not very common. So, lets assume that it is a muscle pull or strain. Stretching is good. Deep massage may help reduce the tightness although it may not be comfortable at the time. Anti-inflamatories like Motrin, Advill, etc can be helpful in reducing the inflamation and easing the pain. Icing the area for 10-15 minutes at a time 3 or 4 times a day can also help. If it persists beyond a week or so without any improvement ... probably ought to see the Dr.