One of the most common causes of low back pain is a low back muscle strain. The back is susceptible to this strain as a result of its weight-bearing role and its involvement in the movement, twisting and bending. Low back muscle strain occurs when the muscle fibers are abnormally stretched or torn apart. Low back muscle strain occurs when a ligament, which is the tough bands of tissue which holds the bones together are torn apart from their attachment. Both of these can occur as a result of sudden injury or progressive overuse.
At the moment when the lumbar spine is strained, the soft tissue becomes inflamed. This inflammation results in pain and may lead to muscle spasms. Low back muscle strain can be very debilitating.
What are the Causes of a Low Back Muscle Strain?
Daily activities such as while exercising or at work are the major causes of the many lower back strains. Below are some common causes and risk factors for low back muscle strain:
1. Lifting heavy loads. A strain which occurs from lifting heavy objects, twisting the spine, lifting from the floor or an item overhead is known to be the most common causes of low back strain. To be on a safer side it is important to keep the items close to the chest and also avoid twisting the upper body while lifting.
2. Sudden impact. The impact of trembling movements can exert heavy, immediate stress on the low back muscles. For example, high-impact sports, such as football and lacrosse, exert excessive pressure on joints and muscles. A sudden impact which occurs during a car accident or a fall is another common cause of back muscle injury. Deconditioned, stiff muscles are more likely to be affected by this type of injury.
3. Repetitive Movements. Repetitive and stressful movements can lead to tightness or tearing of the muscles. Sports activities, for example, rowing, golf, or baseball can result in chronic strain simply because of recurrent, forceful motions. As time goes on chronic strain can gradually become painful, or the pain suddenly exacerbates, if the muscle is already painful and then under severe stress.
4. Poor posture, weak abdominal or back muscles. At the time when the low back and core abdominal muscles weaken, the lower back becomes more susceptible to injury. Moving forward exerts additional strain on the low back muscles and on the spine. Similarly, as time goes on, tight hamstring muscles place added strain on the lower back.
5. Starting a new activity. Starting a new sport or activity can lead to muscle strain by putting sudden and unaccustomed stress on the muscles or group of muscles.
What are the Symptoms of a Low Back Muscle Strain?
• Low back pain may spread to the buttocks, but it does not affect the legs.
• Strength in the low back region, limiting the range of motion.
• Finding it difficult to maintain normal posture due to stiffness and/or pain.
• Muscle spasms either during activity or at rest.
• Pain that lasts up to 10-14 days.
Low Back Muscle Strain Treatment
Treatment for a Low Back Muscle Strain requires restoring the circulation and blood flow to the affected structures in your back. Pain is caused when swelling, inflammation and decreased circulation generate a blockage, which causes blood flow to be interrupted or slowed. Treatment for this issue requires breaking up the accumulated fluids in your back to allow for improved healing and quicker recovery.
Products recommended for symptoms of swelling, redness, pain, and inflammation, and if coolness makes your pain feel better:
Ice Substitute Poultice
Bruise Relief Liniment
Muscle Therapy Massage Oil
Products recommended when swelling and inflammation are gone, but you still feel pain, stiffness, weakness, and/or sensitivity in cold and damp weather, and if heat makes your pain feel better:
Pain Relief Liniment
Tendon and Ligament Poultice
Muscle Therapy Massage Oil
