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Symptoms and Treatments: Back muscle strain

Back muscle strain” is a common condition affecting working-age individuals and those engaged in physical labor. Although often perceived as a minor issue, it can indicate underlying health problems or progress to chronic inflammation if left untreated.

This article aims to provide a thorough understanding of back muscle strain, empowering readers to seek effective treatment for full recovery and improved quality of life.

What is Back muscle strain?

Back muscle strain is a sudden inflammation of the back muscles, occurring anywhere from the upper neck to the lower back. Symptoms typically include sharp pain that develops after muscle injury or overuse, leading to inflammation in the affected area.

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to cellular injury or infection. It involves the release of  substances to stimulate the healing process or eliminating harmful pathogens at the affected area. However,

excessive injury or an overactive inflammatory response can worsen pain and discomfort. 

In cases of injured back muscles, the inflammatory process leads to pain, swelling, and increased muscle tension in the affected area.

Causes of Back muscle strain

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Back muscle strain can arise from various causes, with the primary factors being overuse of the back muscles or direct injury to the muscle tissue. The main causes of this condition include the following: 

Daily Activities

Repetitive or improper use of the back muscles in daily activities, such as prolonged sitting, poor posture, or improper heavy lifting, can strain or injure the back muscles, leading to pain and inflammation. Office syndrome is a common example.

Sports Activities

Sports activities are a common cause of muscle injury, occuring in almost all types of sports. Injuries may result from direct trauma or overuse beyond the muscle’s strength.

This condition is frequently observed in sports involving impact or pressure on the back muscles, such as football, basketball, and weightlifting, as well as activities with repetitive movements. Overtraining, improper techniques, or inadequate muscle strength can also lead to back muscle injuries and inflammation.

Accidents

Back muscle strain caused by accidents falls under the category of trauma-induced injuries. These typically result from incidents that directly impact the back muscles, such as falling and landing on the back or collisions that cause muscle damage, leading to inflammation. 

Symptoms of Back muscle strain

Common observable symptoms of acute posterior myositis include:

    • Pain
    • Swelling, redness, or warmth in the affected area
    • Unusual muscle stiffness
    • Limited back mobility
    • Reduced range of motion
    • Pain while bending forward, arching the back, or twisting the torso

High-Risk Groups 

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Back muscle strain is more likely to occur in the following groups:

    • Working-age Adults: This group often spends long hours sitting or maintaining the same posture, which can lead to muscle strain or injury.
    • Athletes: Prolonged muscle use, constant physical movement, and participation in high-impact or extreme sports place athletes at a heightened risk of injury and inflammation.
    • Manual Laborers: Individuals who engage in physically demanding tasks, such as heavy lifting, prolonged standing or walking, or repetitive bending, are prone to back muscle strain.
    • Overweight Individuals: Excess body weight increases the workload on muscles, making them more susceptible to strain and injury. 
    • Elderly Individuals: Aging leads to reduced muscle strength and flexibility, making this group more vulnerable to muscle injuries.

Treatment Options

Back muscle strain is typically treatable without surgery. There are two main treatment approaches: medication and physical therapy. The most appropriate approach will be determined based on the patient’s condition. The details of each approach are as following:

Medication

Medication is used to relieve pain, reduce inflammation, or alleviate muscle spasms caused by back muscle strain

Topical treatments, such as sprays, creams, or medicated patches, may complement oral medications for enhanced relief. 

Physical Therapy

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Physical therapy involves two primary methods:

    •  Medical Equipment Therapy: Devices, such as ultrasound, laser therapy, or acupuncture, are utilized to reduce pain, as recommended by a rehabilitation physician and physical therapist. 
    •  Self-administered Therapy: Suitable for mild cases or recovery, this approach enables patients to perform targeted exercises independently, relieving pain, strengthening back muscles, and preventing recurrence. 
  •  

What Happens If Left Untreated?

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Many may wonder whether untreated acute posterior myositis could result in long-term complications. In mild cases, this condition may resolve naturally without lasting effects. However, if pain persists beyond a reasonable timeframe, it may develop into chronic pain. 

If rest and over-the-counter pain relievers fail to alleviate symptoms, it is crucial to consult a doctor to ensures an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Back muscle strain affects individuals of all ages and can arise from daily activities, sports, or accidents. If symptoms persist despite rest and medication, seeking medical advice is essential. Untreated conditions can lead to chronic back pain that disrupts daily activities or indicate other serious issues. Therefore, timely diagnosis and treatment ensure full recovery, allowing individuals to resume daily activities and significantly improve their quality of life. 

Article by: Jirachai Pisutbenya, M.D., Specialist Spine Surgeon

Mon, 03 Feb 2025
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