Back Strains and Sprains
(PART 1)
A back strain happens when a muscle or tendon gets injured. A back sprain occurs when a ligament stretches or tears. Sports injuries, repetitive movements and overuse can cause these conditions. Common treatments include NSAIDs, compression and ice packs.
Overview
What are back strains and sprains?
Back strains and sprains are common injuries that can occur following repetitive motions, overuse or trauma. A strain is an injury to a muscle or tendon. A sprain is an injury to a ligament. Pulling, twisting or tearing of these tissues in your back can cause sprains or strains.
Your back – especially the lumbar section of your lower back – bears much of your body’s weight during walking, running, lifting and other activities. There are many potential causes for back pain. Strains and sprains are common causes for temporary pain.
Symptoms and Causes
What are the symptoms of a strained or sprained back?
Back strain or sprain symptoms may include:
* Pain that gets worse when you move
* Muscle cramping or spasms (sudden uncontrollable muscle contractions)
* Decreased function or range of motion (difficulty walking, bending forward or sideways, or standing straight)
In some cases, you might feel a pop or tear at the time of the injury.
What causes muscle strains or sprains in your back?
Twisting or pulling a muscle or tendon can result in a strain. It can also happen after a single instance of improper lifting or another activity that overstresses your back muscles. A chronic (long-term) strain usually results from overuse after prolonged, repetitive movement of your muscles and tendons.
A sprain often occurs after a fall or sudden twist, or a blow to your body that forces a joint out of its normal position. All these conditions stretch one or more ligaments beyond their normal range of movement, causing injury.
What are the risk factors for back strains and sprains?
Several factors can put you at greater risk for sprains or muscle strain in your back, like:
* Curving your lower back excessively
* Having obesity
* Having weak back or abdominal muscles
* Having tight hamstrings (muscles in the backs of your thighs)
* Playing sports that involve pushing and pulling, like weightlifting and football (To be continued)