Low Back Strain

What is low back strain?

Low back strain is an injury to your lower back muscles or ligaments (tissues holding bones together). The lower back supports most of your body weight and is involved when you move, twist, and bend.

What causes low back strain?

Low back strain is often caused by activities that increase stress on the lower back. The following may increase your risk of low back strain:

• You lift the wrong way or carry heavy objects.
  
  
• You do not stretch or warm up your back muscles before you play sports.
  
  
• You sit or stand for long time periods.
  
  
• You weigh more than your caregiver recommends.

What are the signs and symptoms of low back strain?

You may have any of the following:

• Limited or stiff movement of your 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:

• X-rays: You may need x-rays of the lumbar spine to check for broken bones or other problems.
  
  
• 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: This is also called an EMG. An EMG is done to test the function of your muscles and the nerves that control them. Electrodes (wires) are placed on the area of muscle being tested. Needles that enter your skin may be attached to the electrodes. The electrical activity of your muscles and nerves is measured by a machine attached to the electrodes. Your muscles are tested at rest and with activity.
  
  
• 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.

How is low back strain treated?

Treatment of a low back strain may include any of the following:

• Medicines:
  
  
  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines: These medicines are also called NSAIDs. They help decrease pain and swelling. They can be bought without a doctor's order. NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding or kidney problems if they are not taken correctly.
    
    
  • Muscle relaxers: When your muscles relax, you may move more easily and have less pain.
    
    
  • Pain medicine: You may be given medicine to take away or decrease pain. Do not wait until the pain is severe before taking your medicine.
  
  
• Physical therapy: You may need to see a physical therapist to teach you special exercises. These exercises help improve movement and decrease pain. Physical therapy can also help improve strength and decrease your risk for loss of function.

How can I care for my low back strain?

• You may be told to rest in bed for 3 to 5 days if your back injury is severe. This will decrease the pain and help the injury heal faster. Ask your caregiver about positions that may decrease back pain when you lie down.
  
  
• Avoid activities that make the pain worse, such as picking up heavy things. When the pain decreases, begin normal, slow movements as directed.
  
  
• After your symptoms have improved, exercises that strengthen your back muscles may help prevent further problems. Before you exercise, talk to your caregiver about exercises that will not cause further injury to your back. Walking, stationary biking, and swimming are good exercises. Avoid exercises that put strain on your back, such as rowing.

When should I call my caregiver?

Call your caregiver if:

• You have back pains that go to your buttocks, groin, or legs. The groin is the area where your upper leg and lower abdomen meet.
  
  
• Your symptoms do not go away with medicines.
  
  
• You have questions or concerns about your condition, medicines, or care.

When should I seek immediate care?

Seek care immediately or call 911 if:

• You have a fever.
  
  
• You have increased swelling, pain, or redness in your lower back.
  
  
• You have trouble moving your legs.
  
  
• Your legs feel numb or you cannot feel them.

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your caregivers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment.

Copyright © 2012. Thomson Reuters. All rights reserved. Information is for End User's use only and may not be sold, redistributed or otherwise used for commercial purposes.

The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

Learn more about Low Back Strain