INTRODUCTION​

• A low back strain is inflammation or stretching/partial tearing of one or more of the muscles around the lower back

• Low back strains are common in patients of all ages and can range from minor strains from poor positioning or major strains from trauma

CAUSES​

• Poor posture

• Lifting a heavy object

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

• Fall or collision

• Repetitive low back or trunk motion

• Muscle irritation from pinched nerve

• Degenerative disk disease

TREATMENT​​

• The goal of treatment is to decrease pain and muscle irritability/spasm 

• Most symptoms of low back strain will go away in 4 to 6 weeks. However, severe injuries may take longer to heal completely

• Home exercise program: Early motion helps patients maintain neck motion and prevent stiffness. Begin by warming low back with a heating pad or warm towels. Do the following stretches in 3 sets of 10 repetitions twice daily.

• Low back rotation by gently turning the body to the right and holding for a few seconds then repeating on the left

• Low back tilting and holding for a few seconds. Repeat to the left.

• Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help with pain and inflammation

• Muscle relaxants can help ease spasms

• Physical Therapy and manual therapy for patients with refractory symptoms

• Ultrasound therapy

• Back braces may help support the low back and relieve pressure on the lumbar spine

PREVENTION  ​​

• Avoid lifting heavy objects, repetitive activities, and excessive exertion

• Posture modifications to correct muscle tension 

• Sit straight in a neutral posture with the crown of the head tall, chin minimally tilted down, shoulders down, and the scapula retracted and depressed