Low back or lumbar sprains and strains are common musculoskeletal injuries. Pain can range from mild to significant and may restrict your daily activities. In this blog, we’ll dive into what lumbar sprains and strains are, their causes, and symptoms, and how chiropractic care can help you find relief.
What Is the Difference Between a Lumbar Sprain and a Strain?
- Lumbar Sprain: Ligaments are strong, fibrous tissues that connect bone to bone, providing stability to your spine. Sprains often result from sudden or forceful movements that exceed the ligament’s normal range of motion and cause damage. A lumbar sprain occurs when the ligaments in your lower back stretch or tear.
- Lumbar Strain: Lumbar strains involve the over-stretching or tearing of muscles and tendons in the lower back. Muscles and tendons are responsible for facilitating movement of the spine.
Common Causes of Lumbar Sprain and Strain:
- Injuries: Car accidents, falls, slips, etc., can cause a sudden over-stretching of the ligaments, muscles, or tendons of the spine.
- Sudden Movements: Abrupt twisting or lifting of heavy objects can strain or sprain the lower back muscles and ligaments.
- Repetitive Activities: Activities that involve repetitive motions, such as heavy lifting, frequent bending, or sports can increase the risk of lumbar injuries over time.
- Poor Posture: Prolonged sitting or standing with poor posture can lead to overuse injuries, especially if your lower back is not adequately supported.
- Weak Core Muscles: A weak core can lead to instability in the lower back, making it more susceptible to injuries when lifting or bending.
Symptoms of Lumbar Sprain and Strain:
- Pain: The most common symptom is localized lower back pain, which can range from mild to severe.
- Muscle Spasms: You may experience muscle spasms in the lower back, which will worsen the pain.
- Limited Range of Motion: Reduced mobility and stiffness in the lower back.
Chiropractic Care for Lumbar Sprain and Strain:
Chiropractors can treat many musculoskeletal conditions, including lumbar sprains and strains. Here’s how chiropractic care can help:
- Spinal Adjustments: Chiropractic adjustments can restore proper alignment and range of motion to the spine, reducing pressure on the injured area and promoting healing.
- Soft Tissue Therapy: Chiropractors can use techniques like myofascial release to alleviate muscle tension and reduce pain.
- Strengthening Exercises: Chiropractors may recommend specific exercises to strengthen the spine and core and improve stability, reducing the risk of future injuries.
- Posture and Ergonomics: Chiropractors can provide guidance on maintaining proper posture and ergonomic practices to prevent further strain on the lower back.
Lumbar sprains and strains can be painful and limit your daily activities. Chiropractic care offers an approach to helping your body recover naturally. If you’re experiencing lower back pain or suspect a lumbar sprain or strain, consult Flynn Chiropractic for a personalized treatment plan that can lead you on the path to recovery.