Pulled Back Muscle: Muscle Strains in the Back

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What is a Pulled Back Muscle?

Back pain is incredibly common in our society. 80% of the population will experience an episode of low back pain at some point in their life. True muscle strains (pulled muscles) in the lower back are rare. Most muscle pain in the lower back is due to muscle spasms from other lumbar spine injuries. Disk injuries are more likely because they are more easily injured.  

For more information on Why Back Pain Can’t Wait watch the video below!

What Causes a Pulled Back Muscle?

The quick answer is a muscle strain or “pulled” muscle in the back can happen if the back muscles become overstressed or stretched to the point in which fibers are damaged. Unlike a hamstring strain, lumbar strains are not very common, but they can happen with improper lifting or trauma. Muscles in the lower back have a good blood supply, so they typically heal well. Recovery may vary when considering sprains vs. strains.

How Do You Avoid a Pulled Lower Back Muscle?

The best way to decrease the risk of any injury in the lower back is to use proper lifting techniques. It is also important to keep your body weight at a healthy level and exercise regularly. A good overall stretching program and warm-up before activities can also decrease the chances of a pulled muscle. 

Anatomical image of the human back musculature
 

What is the Remedy for a Pulled Muscle in Lower Back?

There are a couple of options when recommending what to do for a pulled back muscle. The quick answer for what to do for a pulled back muscle or back pain is it is best to rest for a day or so and try using ice for about 15 minutes at a time. After a day or 2 of rest, it’s usually better to try to move around some. If the pain continues or you have hip and back pain, it is best to see a doctor. 

Lower Back Pain Stretches

If you have a strain, please try these two low back pain stretches: 

single knee to chest
 

Hamstring Stretch
 

Physical Therapy for a Pulled Back Muscle

Physical therapy can help treat a pulled muscle in the back to learn proper lower back stretches and strength exercises. Massage, laser, and moist heat may also help treat a muscle strain in the back. 

To learn more about the anatomy of the low back, please go to anatomy videos

To. learn more about JOI Medical Massage Therapy click HERE

By: Ehren Allen, DPT, Certified Manual Therapist

Related Articles:

• Muscle Strain
• Lower Muscles of Back Anatomy and Low Back Pain
• What is a Pinched Nerve in Lower Back?

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