Low Back Strain
GENERAL INFORMATION:
What is a low back strain? Low back strain is an injury to the lower back muscles or ligaments (tissues holding bones together). The strain may be due to too much pulling, stretching, or lifting. It is one of the most common causes of lumbar (low back) pain. The lumbar spine supports most of the body weight and is involved with moving, twisting, and bending. This makes muscles and ligaments of the back more likely to be injured than other muscles and ligaments of the body.
What causes a low back strain? Low back strain is often caused by activities that increase stress on the lower back. These activities include bending, reaching, lifting, and twisting the back. The following may increase your risk of having low back strain:
- Lifting the wrong way or carrying heavy objects.
- Sudden and too much physical activity, such as playing sports without stretching or warming up the back muscles.
- Sitting or standing for long time periods.
- Weighing more than what your caregiver recommends.
What are the signs and symptoms of a low back strain? You may have any of the following:
- Limited or stiff movement of the lower back muscles.
- Low back muscle soreness.
- Low back pain going down to the legs, buttocks, or groin area. The groin is the area where your upper leg and lower abdomen meet.
- Low back pain becoming worse with activity.
How is low back strain diagnosed? You may have any of the following:
- Computerized tomography scan: This test is also called a CT or CAT scan. This is a type of x-ray that uses computers to take pictures of your back. You may be given a dye before the pictures are taken to help your caregiver see the pictures better. People who are allergic to iodine or shellfish (lobster, crab, or shrimp) may be allergic to some dyes. Tell your caregiver if you are allergic to shellfish or have other allergies or medical conditions.
- Electromyography (EMG): Electromyography is a test that measures the electrical activity of your muscles. Your muscles are tested at rest and while you are using them. An EMG test may also check the nerves that control your muscles.
- Magnetic resonance imaging scan: This test is also called an MRI. The test uses magnetic waves to take pictures of your back and to see if there is damage to the spine.
- X-rays: You may need x-rays of the lumbar spine to check for broken bones or other problems.
How is low back strain treated? Treatment of a low back strain may include any of the following:
- Rest: This is usually suggested for mild low back strain. You may need 2 to 3 days of resting in bed.
- Medicines:
- Muscle relaxers: This is medicine to help your muscles relax. When your muscles relax, you may move more easily and have less pain.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine: This family of medicine is also called NSAIDs. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine may help decrease pain and inflammation (swelling). Some NSAIDs may also be used to decrease a high body temperature (fever). This medicine can be bought with or without a doctor's order. This medicine can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems in certain people. Always read the medicine label and follow the directions on it before using this medicine.
- Muscle relaxers: This is medicine to help your muscles relax. When your muscles relax, you may move more easily and have less pain.
- Physical therapy: Your caregiver may want you to go to physical therapy. A physical therapist will help you with special exercises. These exercises help make your bones and muscles stronger.
How do I find more information? Contact the following for more information:
- American Academy of Family Physicians
PO Box 11210
Shawnee Mission, KS 66207-1210
Phone: 1-913-906-6000
Web Address: http://www.aafp.org
- American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons
6300 North River Road
Rosemont, IL 600184262
Phone: 1-847-8237186
Web Address: http://www.aaos.org/
CARE AGREEMENT:
You have the right to help plan your care. To help with this plan, you must learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. You can then discuss treatment options with your caregivers. Work with them to decide what care may be used to treat you. You always have the right to refuse treatment.
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