Lumbar Spine Strain
An exact diagnosis may be difficult to assess since muscular strain, ligamentous
sprain and mild disc herniation may all present with similar symptoms. Symptoms
will include muscular tenderness and weakness.
Many factors can cause these symptoms but muscular or ligamentous injury are
the usual culprits. Regardless of the cause, initial treatment will be the
same. A brief period of rest (usually 24-48 hours) and anti-inflammatory medication
will be beneficial for the patient. This treatment can then be followed with
a gradual return to weight-bearing activities. Many physicians will order a
course of physical therapy for the patient which may include “back school.” “Back
school” is a regimented program of exercise designed to strengthen
and stabilize the muscles and ligamentous structures of the spine. The program
also stresses proper body biomechanics which includes how to properly perform
activities of daily living. This would include increasing the flexibility of
the spine to better perform activities from tooth brushing to gas pumping to
vacuuming. These classes and/or a course of physical therapy are ordered for
the patient in an effort to reduce recurrence of injury.
Lifestyle changes may be employed as well to decrease predisposition to chronic
low back pain. Smoking, which decreases overall circulation in the body should
be eliminated. Obesity, poor body mechanics and wearing high heeled shoes are
also indicators for low back pain. Whenever the body’s center of gravity is
shifted forward, an added strain is placed upon the discs.
