Lumbar muscle strain is which part?

Written by Li Jie

Orthopedics

Updated on September 18, 2024

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Lumbar muscle strain, as the name suggests, refers to a group of symptoms of muscle pain in the lumbar region caused by strain. Typically, it occurs in the waist area, around where we usually wear a belt. Generally, the pain is located about 10 to 20 centimeters above the belt area and about 10 centimeters below it. The pain on either side of the lumbar spine in this area is called lumbar muscle strain, which is usually caused by strain in the muscles of the lumbar spine. If the pain is in the central part of the lumbar spine, this type of pain is generally due to inflammation of the supraspinous ligament or tendonitis. Sometimes, it is caused by a herniated lumbar disc, which may not be closely related to lumbar muscle strain. Therefore, we say that pain in the muscles on either side of the waist is called lumbar muscle strain.

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Written by Li Jin

Orthopedics

56sec

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How to treat lumbar muscle strain

Patients with lumbar muscle strain are primarily caused by long-term engagement in heavy physical activities involving the waist, poor posture, chronic strain, etc. The main symptoms include lower back pain and restricted movement, which alleviate after rest and worsen after physical exertion. To manage lumbar muscle strain, it is crucial first to rest and develop correct habits for using the lower back, avoiding long-term engagement in heavy physical activities of the waist while also paying attention to techniques used. If symptoms are severe, medication such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be used, along with adjunct treatments like heat therapy, massage, or block therapy. These methods can actively contribute to symptom improvement and recovery. (Please use medications under the guidance of a doctor to avoid blind self-medication.)

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Written by Na Hong Wei

Orthopedics

1min 6sec

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Symptoms of lumbar muscle strain and fasciitis

First, it is a type of chronic pain without obvious causes, mainly characterized by soreness and swelling. The pain usually alleviates after rest but reappears if staying in one position for too long. Therefore, patients with myofascial inflammation caused by lumbar strain often feel restless. Second, there is usually a trigger point, typically located near or within a muscle, or at the junction between muscle and nerve. Pressing on the trigger point often results in radiating pain around it. Furthermore, the pain usually does not worsen but instead lessens over time, which is a key characteristic of myofascial inflammation. Third, the sacrospinalis muscle may become hardened or even spasm on one or both sides. Fourth, there is compensatory abnormal curvature of the spine, mainly presenting as protrusion or lateral curvature of the spine. Thus, the symptoms of myofascial inflammation from lumbar muscle strain usually include pain, specific pain points, surrounding muscle hardening, spasm, and compensatory spinal deformity.

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Written by Guan Jing Tao

Orthopedics

31sec

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Can I run with a strained lumbar muscle?

Generally, it is not recommended. For lumbar muscle strain, it is first advised to rest in bed. After the pain eases, one can take gentle walks and do some lumbar physiotherapy and heat applications. Exercises such as the 'little swallow flight' and other aerobic activities, as well as swimming, can be done. Jogging is also acceptable, but it is advised not to engage in fast, high-intensity, or prolonged running to avoid significant injury and fatigue to the lumbar muscles.

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Written by Guan Yu Hua

Orthopedic Surgery

1min 14sec

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How long should I take off work for a lumbar muscle strain?

Lumbar muscle strain often occurs when engaging in heavy physical labor. For instance, swinging a heavy hammer or bending over for strenuous tasks, as is common for carpenters and roofers. Such occupations involve considerable effort from the lumbar region with frequent movements, and prolonged work can easily lead to local muscle congestion and exudation, stimulating surrounding nerves and blood vessels leading to strain. Generally, after finishing such activities, one may experience lumbar discomfort and stiffness the next morning, where the lumbar region feels stiff like a board, making movement painful. Movement can alleviate the pain somewhat, which is a typical symptom. Lumbar muscle strain usually requires strict bed rest, ideally for about a week, and it is best to take a leave of absence for about seven to ten days. Treatment often involves medications that promote blood circulation and relieve pain, combined with heat application, massage, and physical therapy, all of which can help alleviate symptoms. If it is possible and the workplace allows, it is recommended to rest for about seven to ten days.

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Written by Na Hong Wei

Orthopedics

1min 4sec

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How to relieve pain from lumbar muscle strain?

Lumbar muscle strain, if the pain is severe, can usually be alleviated using the following methods. First and foremost, during the acute phase, what is primarily needed? First, you need to rest and immobilize, mainly ceasing some activities and ideally lying on a hard bed in a supine position with hips and knees flexed. Secondly, for the painful area, you can apply appropriate physiotherapy. This includes traditional Chinese massage and acupuncture. Thirdly, if there are specific fixed painful points, you might consider blockade therapy. Fourthly, when the pain is particularly severe and affects your work and rest, you can take some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Additionally, use some stimulating medicines or stimulating liniments. If the pain severely impacts your mood and work, you might also consider some sedatives. Fifthly, you can use some external or internal traditional Chinese medicine, which is usually very effective in managing pain.