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 Na Hong Wei

Orthopedics

1min 19sec

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Treatment methods for lumbar muscle strain

Firstly, general treatment is necessary, which mainly includes rest, or regularly changing posture, and avoiding bending over to lift objects. This is primarily to alleviate symptoms and prevent recurrence. Additionally, using a lumbar support belt at work can limit the range of motion of the waist and is very effective for lumbar muscle strain. Moreover, after entering the remission phase, when the pain has subsided, it is important to strengthen the muscles of the lower back. If the strength of the lower back muscles is improved, the stability of the lumbar spine will also improve, making lumbar muscle strain less likely to occur. Secondly, some physiotherapy can be applied to the painful area, including massage, manipulation, or acupuncture. Thirdly, if there are specific tender points, localized treatment around these points can be considered, which is highly effective. Fourthly, if the pain is particularly severe, affecting work and rest, or causing patient anxiety, consideration can be given to using some non-steroidal anti-inflammatory painkillers, muscle relaxants, or sedatives like diazepam. Therefore, treatment of lumbar muscle strain is essential and must be correctly administered. (Medications should be used under a doctor's guidance based on specific conditions.)

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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 Lv Yao

Orthopedics

38sec

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Can I run with lumbar muscle strain?

The occurrence of lumbar muscle strain is mainly due to chronic injury causing excessive fatigue of the muscles, resulting in muscle fiber strain. Lumbar muscle strain is primarily a type of chronic aseptic inflammation, characterized by symptoms such as pain and restricted movement. When lumbar muscle strain occurs, it is not advisable to continue running; instead, it is recommended to apply heat and rest. This is because running can exacerbate the load on the lumbar region, which is not very beneficial for lumbar muscle strain. Therefore, when lumbar muscle strain occurs, rest and appropriate physical therapy should be the main focus.

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Written by Su Zhen Bo

Orthopedics

1min 1sec

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What should I do if I have a strained lumbar muscle?

In clinical practice, the patient suffers from lumbar muscle strain. In terms of treatment, it is necessary to promptly stop lumbar activities, avoid exposure to cold in the lumbar region, avoid repeated external force stimulation, and prevent further aggravation of the condition. Lumbar hot compresses should be applied, using spectrum radiators, microwave devices, and physical therapy devices for treatment. Frequent use of traditional Chinese medicine fumigation and application of traditional Chinese manual massage can reduce the degree of adhesion and hardening of lumbar muscle tissues, restore muscle strength, toughness, and elasticity, and alleviate the patient's clinical symptoms. For areas of significant lumbar pain, closed injection is used for transcutaneous drug delivery of traditional Chinese medicine at acupoints. Analgesic drugs, mainly oral non-steroidal anti-inflammatory analgesics, can also be used to reduce local pain.

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Written by Na Hong Wei

Orthopedics

1min 45sec

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Treatment methods for lumbar muscle strain

Firstly, some non-surgical treatments, namely conservative treatments, should be carried out. The majority of patients can see significant relief in their symptoms after conservative treatment, and some of them may even be cured. Conservative treatment begins with general treatment. Primarily, it involves bed rest after the onset of lumbar muscle strain symptoms, ceasing work, and minimizing bending activities. Additionally, wearing a lumbar support is advised to prevent further injury. Secondly, it is appropriate to exercise the muscles of the lower back. If the strength of these muscles is increased, not only can it enhance the stability of the lumbar spine, but it can also reduce pressure inside the intervertebral discs and delay the aging and degeneration of the spine. Thirdly, physical and rehabilitation therapies should be employed. This mainly includes traction, physiotherapy, massage, acupuncture, and external application of traditional Chinese medicine. The goal is primarily to relax spasmodic back muscles. At the same time, it can alleviate pressure within the intervertebral discs and reduce the inflammation around the nerve roots. Fourthly, if the pain is extremely severe and significantly affects everyday life and work, consideration may be given to taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain medications, along with muscle relaxants. This can result in very effective pain relief. If the outcome of standardized conservative treatment is unsatisfactory, surgical treatment can be considered. However, for lumbar muscle strain, non-surgical treatment is generally preferred, with only a few patients requiring surgery.