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Injuries and Conditions: Back & Spine: Lumbar Strains: |
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The pain and discomfort associated with a lumbar strain can vary considerably from patient to patient and is dependent on the severity of the injury.
A mild to moderate lumbar strain is commonly treated with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID's), ice packs, rest, and a reduction in activity level to promote healing of the injured muscles.
A severe strain which does not respond to rest and NSAID's, may require more advanced physical therapy program.
The identification of the activity, which caused the strain, and the modification of that activity will help in the healing as well as the prevention of a similar lumbar strain in the future.
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Treatment should initially include rest and a significant reduction of all activities. The length of time it takes to heal from a strain may be delayed if an activity is resumed to soon.
Over the counter or prescription medications, including NSAIDs to help reduce the swelling and inflammation around the nerve root and in the muscles. Muscle relaxants may also be prescribed to relieve spasms associated with the strain.
A rehabilitation program involving physical therapy may be prescribed after the acute symptoms have been relieved. Along with back strengthening and stabilizing exercises, therapy also may include ultrasound, hot/cold packs and massage.
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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.
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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.
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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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