By: Ehren Allen, PT, Certified Manual Therapist
The lower back region, more specifically called the lumbar spine is often the site of a sudden acute injury. These injuries occur during a fall or an unexpected twisting motion causing a lower back strain. It can also be the area of chronic low back pain that arises from untreated lumbar spine injuries and poor posture. There are many muscles in the low back area to support the lumbar spine vertebrae, but during routine activities these tissues can become over-stretched or torn causing a muscle strain. This type of acute injury causes soreness and pain along either side of the lumbar spine. It may even cause muscle spasms near the site of pain especially with trunk movements.
Another type of low back injury, a lumbar sprain, is caused from sudden pulling or twisting which damages the ligaments. This strong connective tissue provides individual stability and support to the lumbar spine vertebra. It can lead to centralized pain along the lower back and create muscle weakness over time. Lumbar strains and muscle sprains are treated similarly due to the inflammatory nature of both conditions and the localized areas of pain following injury. Learn more about sprains vs strains here.
Lumbar Sprains vs StrainsAny type of movement that puts excessive stress on the lower back usually causes lower back pain from a muscle strain. Frequent causes include lifting a heavy object, lifting while twisting, or a sudden movement or fall. Sports that require excessive pushing and pulling, such as weight lifting or football, are more commonly known to experience lumbar strains. Other sudden twisting of the lower back, such as in tennis, basketball, baseball, and golf, can lead to this muscle injury. As with some severe lumbar muscle pulls, it may cause sharp pains in the lower back region, and make normal tasks like walking, running and even breathing uncomfortable. Keep in mind that a lumbar strain can't be blamed for all lower back pain. There are many other causes, including:
These causes should be properly evaluated by your physician.
Fortunately, lumbar muscle strains usually heal with time, in most minor cases healing within a few days and almost all resolving within 3 to 4 weeks. Everyone heals at a different rate, so the recovery time may be dependent on the severity of the injury. Common treatment methods for lumbar spine injuries include anti-inflammatory medications, ice to reduce pain and heat for muscle spasms. Gentle stretching and movement has been shown to be more effective then rest alone, allowing more blood flow to the area and further healing. Watch this VIDEO about JOI's Fast Track Spine Program to get you on the road to recovery.
Gentle stretching helps relieve pain from lower back muscle pull
Physical therapy is another option to help reduce pain and improve lumbar spine function, with pain-free stretching and initiating core stabilization exercises. They can utilize pain-reducing modalities such as laser therapy and soft tissue mobilization techniques to the lumbar spine. Postural awareness and education is another important component to reducing further injury following a muscle strain when returning back to regular activities. Consult your physician if your lower back pain has not improved within a few weeks. Check out these spine tips.
Related Articles : Exercises for Lumbar Spinal Stenosis, Lower Muscles of Back Anatomy and Low Back Pain, and Lumbar Spine Strains
Watch this video from the Jacksonville Orthopaedic Institute on Back Pain Can't Wait
If you need physical therapy for your back, JOI Rehab has a fast track program. For an appointment please call 904-858-7045.
JOI doctors are offering ASAP Fracture care. Make an appointment by calling (904)JOI-2000 or click below.
