Strain Treatment
What is a Strain?
A strain is caused when there is damage to a muscle. Typically, this occurs when too much stress is put on a certain muscle group. Since lower back strains are the most common muscle strain, we will focus on this particular injury. The most common story leading to a lower back strain is attempting to lift something that is too heavy with improper lifting mechanics.
How is a Low Back Strain ("Pulled Muscle") Diagnosed?
A history of immediate or near immediate onset of pain after lifting a heavy object can strongly suggest a strain of the muscles in the low back.
After taking a careful history, your medical provider at Pinnacle Urgent Care will perform a thorough exam of your back. The back exam includes pressing to elicit any areas of tenderness, assessing the range of motion of the lower back, as well as testing reflexes and strength of the legs to assess nerves coming out of the back. Although x-rays are not always necessary to diagnose a muscle strain, it can, in certain situations, help rule out other causes of pain such as a slipped disc.
What is the Treatment of a Low Back Strain?
In most cases, a patient with a pulled or strained muscle in their back can be treated with the following therapies:
- Ice 15 minutes at a time up to 4 times a day
- Anti-inflammatory medications (Ibuprofen, Aleve)
- Muscle relaxers (Robaxin, Cyclobenzaprine)
- Resting the back by not lifting anything over 10-15 lbs
- Massage
- Physical therapy
When Should You See a Doctor for a Low Back Strain?
If you have any of the following, please allow one of our providers to preform a careful history and thorough physical exam.
- Immediate onset pain after lifting
- Pain that radiates or shoots down one leg
- Pain that is associated with tingling, mild weakness, or numbness in one leg
- Pain that has lasted longer than 3 days
To Make An Appointment
To Make An Appointment
or call (336) 565-5001
or call (336) 565-5001
OPEN: Mon-Fri, 8a-8p / Sat-Sun: 8a-5p
OPEN: Mon-Fri, 8a-8p / Sat-Sun: 8a-5p