Back Sprains and Strains
Back Sprains and Strains
If you are experiencing a dull or sharp in your back that is causing stiffness, and difficulty in bending, walking, or standing straight, you might have torn a ligament or muscle in your back.
Physical therapy is effective in relieving back pain. It’s important you see a physical therapist, to evaluate your back, and create a treatment plan for you.
Contact us today to get started.
What is a Back Sprain or Strain?
Sprain and strain have been used interchangeably to describe the tearing and stretching of the tissues around the joints, but they are different.
A sprain occurs when there is an injury to a ligament, causing the ligament to be abnormally stretched or torn. Ligaments are thick fibrous cords that connect bone to bone.
A strain is an injury to the muscles or tendons. This is usually caused when the muscles are overstretched.
When there is a tear or overstretching of the ligaments and muscles (tendons) of your back, this can cause intense pain, followed by other symptoms.
Back Sprain or Strain Diagnosis
A physical therapist at Polygon PT will review your medical history, and perform a physical examination of your back.
You may sustain other back injuries when you have a tear, therefore, imaging tests such as X-ray or MRI-scan might be required. We will walk closely with your doctor to achieve this.
- Rest. you will be advised to discontinue activities that may have caused the tear
- Place ice on the affected area at least 2-3 times daily for a minimum of 30 minutes to reduce swelling and relieve pain
- Manual therapy to release muscle tension and improve blood circulation in the back
- Motion and strengthening exercises to restore or improve flexibility
Causes of Back Sprains or Strains
Sprains and strains are usually caused by overuse and trauma. Factors that can cause a tear to the back muscles and ligament include:
Overuse of the muscles and tendons
Improper lifting or by overstressing the back muscles
A fall or a sudden twist of the body
A direct blow to the body that forces a joint out of its position
Risk factors that contribute to back sprain and strain include:
Being overweight
Curving the lower back excessively
Having weak back or abdominal muscles
Having tight hamstrings (muscles in the back of the thighs)
Sports that involve a lot of pulling and pushing such as football and weightlifting
Symptoms of Back Sprains or Strains