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Home :: Back Strain, Lumbar Spine Region
Back Strain, Lumbar Spine Region
Injury to muscles or tendons that attach to the vertebral column at the lumbar (lower mid portion) spine. Muscles, tendons and vertebrae comprise units. The units stabilize the spine and allow its motion. A strain occurs at the weakest part of a unit. Strains are of 3 types:
- Mild (Grade I) - Slightly pulled muscle without tearing of muscle or tendon fibers. There is no loss of strength.
- Moderate (Grade II) - Tearing of fibers in a muscle, tendon or at the attachment to bone. Strength is diminished.
- Severe (Grade III) - Rupture of the muscle-tendon-bone attachment with separation of fibers. Severe strain requires surgical repair. Chronic strains are caused by overuse. Acute strains are caused by direct injury or overstress.
BODY PARTS INVOLVED
- Tendons and muscles of the lower midspine.
- One or more vertebral bones or bones of the pelvis.
- Soft tissue surrounding the strain, including nerves, periosteum (covering to bone), blood vessels and lymph vessels.
Causes
- Prolonged overuse or stretching of muscle-tendon units in the lower back.
- Single violent injury or force applied to lower back.
Signs & Symptoms
- Pain with motion or stretching of the lower back.
- Muscle spasm in the lower back.
- Swelling along muscle of the back.
- Loss of strength (moderate or severe strain).
- Crepitation ("crackling") feeling and sound when the injured area is pressed with fingers.
- Calcification of the muscle or its tendon (visible with X-rays).
Treatment
Follow your doctor's instructions. These instructions are supplemental.
First Aid
- Rest the injured area at the first sign of symptoms. Rest in bed until pain decreases. Use a firm mattress.
- Use ice to help stop internal bleeding. Prepare an Ice pack of ice cubes or chips wrapped In plastic or In a container. Place a towel over the injured area to prevent skin damage. Apply ice for 20 minutes, then rest 10 minutes. Repeat applications for 24 to 48 hours after injury.
Continuing Care
- When bed rest is discontinued, you may need a cast or brace to allow the strain to heal completely. Later, a special corset may be used.
- Use ice massage 3 or 4 times a day for 15 minutes at a time. Fill a large Styrofoam cup with water and freeze. Tear a small amount of foam from the top so ice protrudes. Massage firmly over the injured area in a circle about the size of a softball.
- After 24 to 48 hours, apply heat instead of ice, if it feels better. Use heat lamps, hot soaks, heating pads, or heat liniments and ointments.
- Take whirlpool treatments, if available.
- Massage gently and often to provide comfort and decrease. swelling.
Home Diet
Eat a well-balanced diet that includes extra protein, such as meat, fish, poultry, cheese, milk and eggs. Increase fiber and fluid intake to prevent constipation that may result from decreased activity.
Prevention
- Participate in a strengthening and conditioning program appropriate for your sport. Include exercises to promote back flexibility
- Warm up before practice or competition.
- Use proper lifting techniques. Don't bend over to lift. Squat to lift, and rise using leg muscles.
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