A lumbosacral strain is a common injury to the lower back caused by trauma or overuse of muscles. Symptoms include pain and discomfort, but most people can recover with rest, home remedies, and pain medication. Severe cases may require medical attention and imaging scans. Surgery is rarely necessary.
A lumbosacral strain is an injury to muscle tissue in the lower back. A strain usually involves one or more of the large muscles, called the paraspinal muscles, that help support the spine while walking, twisting, bending, or lifting heavy objects. Depending on the severity of an injury, a person may experience minor pain during activity or find themselves completely unable to get out of bed. Strains and sprains in the lower spine are very common, and most people with acute low back pain are able to recover fairly quickly with rest, home remedies, and pain medication.
Most lumbosacral strains are the result of isolated trauma to the lower back. Improper lifting techniques, such as bending from the waist instead of squatting with the legs, are common causes of straining. A sudden, awkward fall or twist can also jolt the spine and cause a muscle to stretch beyond its normal range of motion. A strain can also occur due to chronic overuse of muscles. Weight lifters, movers, warehouse workers, and other people who regularly fold and pick up heavy objects are at a higher risk of overuse injuries.
The most common symptoms of a lumbosacral strain are pains that radiate upward through the back and along the buttocks. The dull aches may be constant or noticeable only when the back muscles are in use. Occasionally, muscles may contract or contract and cause sudden, sharp pains. It is important to visit a doctor as soon as possible if the pains become constant and unbearable or if swelling occurs in the region.
A mild low back strain can usually be treated at home. Resting for several days is the most important element of recovery in giving your muscles time to heal themselves. Alternating between ice and hot packs helps relieve symptoms for many people. Over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications such as aspirin and ibuprofen can also be helpful. Once your back starts to feel better, usually in about two weeks, it’s a good idea to slowly return to normal activity to avoid injuring your muscles again.
When the pain is severe, a doctor may perform a physical exam and take imaging scans to better understand the problem. He or she can check for more serious conditions such as fractures and underlying spinal disorders and treat them accordingly. If the major damage is absent, the doctor usually prescribes painkillers and explains the importance of rest and home care. Surgery is usually not needed unless the surrounding muscle and tendons are completely torn. By following the doctor’s instructions and taking preventative steps in the future, a person can usually make a full recovery from a low back strain.
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