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Overuse or misuse of the muscles of the low back is a common cause of lumbar strains. These muscles are frequently strained from improper lifting that results in excessive forces to be exerted on the muscles if the low back. Almost 90% of back pain diagnosed in patients is the result of a lumbar strain.
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Causes of Injury
An overuse or misuse of the muscles in the low back. These muscles are frequently strained as a result of improper lifting which places excessive stress on these muscles.
A forceful twisting or other unnatural motion of the lower back.
Overuse of a poorly conditioned or previously injured low back.
Participation in a sport where excess wear and tear is exerted on the back muscles. These sports include football, golf and tennis.
Occupations requiring repetitive and heavy labor.
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The signs and symptoms of a lumbar strain can also mimic other spinal disorders. The most common of which is a herniated lumbar disc. A review of the signs and symptoms associated with a lumbar strain will help in determining the correct diagnosis.
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Lumbar: Supports
A bad back can often be the result of poor posture and positioning. A lumbosacral back support, when properly fitted and positioned, will help to maintain a proper, stable posture when sitting at a chair or driving in the car. Poor posture while sitting forces the spine out of its proper position and puts a significant strain on the muscles, tendons and ligaments that support the spine. Lumbar supports can be found in a wide range of sizes and styles.
| NSAIDs
NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) are a group of drugs used to control pain. This category of medications includes both prescription and common over-the-counter painkillers such as ibuprofen. NSAIDs are effective for many types of pain that can occur because of inflammation of muscles, joints and bones. The drugs work quickly and people often notice some benefit within a few hours of taking the tablet. However, the complete effectiveness of the drug may not be realized for up to four weeks. For each individual, some varieties of NSAIDs are more effective than others. Often, patients will find that one or two varieties are helpful whereas others may not be as effective in controlling symptoms. It is usually necessary to try several brands and continue with the one that is most suitable. NSAIDs can be used to treat:
Pain resulting from inflammation or swelling.
Pain after injury.
Joint pain and arthritis.
| Hot/Cold Pack
The use of hot and cold packs to relieve pain and inflammation is a common method of treatment for many conditions. When the soft tissue groups become strained or irritated the rotating application of hot and cold can be beneficial.
Cold therapy numbs the nerves to reduce pain and combats swelling by constricting blood vessels and by slowing blood flow to the site of injury. The application of heat to an injury after a few days of cold therapy and after swelling and redness has been reduced promotes the healing process.
Heat therapy speeds up healing by increasing the flow of blood to the site of injury. Heat will also restore flexibility, relieve muscle cramping, and arthritic symptoms.
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About the Clinical Review Team
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