A lumbar strain is a muscle injury in the lower back that causes pain, swelling, and bruising. It can be caused by sports injuries, car accidents, or heavy lifting. Rest and over-the-counter pain relievers can help, and prevention includes regular exercise and stretching.
A strain refers to a muscle injury anywhere in the body where that muscle experiences small tears in its fibers. The lumbar spine refers to the region of the back commonly referred to as the lower back. A lumbar strain, therefore, is a muscle strain in the lumbar region of the spine that causes pain, swelling, bruising, numbness, tingling, or other varieties of pain. A lumbar strain should not be confused with other lumbar spine injuries and pains, such as sciatic nerve pain, herniated discs, or ligament injuries. Strains of all types are limited to muscles only.
A lumbar strain can occur in any of the muscles that support the spine in the lower back. Sports injuries are common in this area, as twisting movements can place great strain on these muscles. Car accidents can also cause such strain, as can heavy lifting. Anytime the back muscles experience a load or impact that is beyond those muscles’ means to handle, a lower back strain is possible. Muscle fibers begin to separate and tear, which can cause pain. If the muscle tissues completely separate, the injury is known as a muscle tear and may require surgery to repair.
When a lumbar strain occurs, the sufferer is likely to feel a dull ache in the lower back. Swelling is possible, as is bruising, although if the injury is frozen immediately after it occurs, swelling and bruising can be minimized which will in turn keep pain to a minimum and encourage healing. A lot of rest is needed to allow lower back tension to heal; the rest can last from one day to several weeks, depending on the severity of the strain. Over-the-counter pain relievers can also help relieve pain, and in severe cases, a doctor may prescribe anti-inflammatory medications to keep swelling down.
To prevent lower back strain from occurring, you should participate in a regular exercise routine that strengthens your core muscles—the muscles that support your spine in your lower back, abdomen, glutes, and hips. He should also stretch regularly to keep his muscles limber and healthy. If the sufferer habitually sits for long periods of time, it is necessary to get out of the chair frequently to move around and to ensure that the muscles remain limber. Your muscles will weaken from constant inactivity, making them more prone to injury.
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