HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Suggest Treatment For Lower Back Muscle Strain

default
Posted on Thu, 16 Jun 2016
Question: I was lifting the other day and felt ok during the reps, but right after my lower back (base of my spine) suddenly hurt--it felt compressed. After about a minute it felt better, and I did another set, felt ok. I got home, showered, ok. Was blowdrying my hair bent over, tried to flip back up & my lower back just seized up. I had to go very slow. I finished getting ready for work, trying not to bend cuz it felt sore. I felt a lot better walking to the train, and while I still felt some discomfort sitting at my desk, it wasn't terrible. I felt ok bending over and back up later in the day. Lifted again this morning & felt a little twinge of discomfort again at the end up my workout. I didn't have the sudden spasm/cramp this morning like Tuesday, but lower back still feels a little compressed at the spine. Mostly in the middle, but a little on one side. I'm a little slow getting up from my chair. It feels better once i walk a bit. I'm concerned about seriously injuring my back, so I'd like to nip this in the bud. Does this just sound like a spasm? Or could it be more serious? Should I ice it? Heat? It's more discomfort, but than severe pain. Just dont want to make it worse.
doctor
Answered by Dr. Nishad BN (1 hour later)
Brief Answer:
Most likely lower back muscle strain.

Detailed Answer:
Hi

Thank you for asking HCM

I have gone through your query. Your problem can be most likely lower back muscle strain. Lower back muscle groups are more vulnerable to muscle strain. You should give rest for a short period like 5 to 7 days. You can do ice pack application for initial 2 days and then hot fomentation. Avoid leaning back or lift heavy weight for some days. You can take over the counter NSAIDs like Ibuprofen (motrin). Applying NSAID gels like diclofenac or ketoprofen localy also good. You can get those as over the counter like Volini gel.

If there is no improvement after 1 week then consult an orthopedic surgeon and have x ray and MRI (if required) of lumbosacral spine to rule out injury to intervertebral discs or joints.

Let me know if anything not clear.
I am happy to help you.
Thanks.
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Nishad BN

General & Family Physician

Practicing since :2009

Answered : 5482 Questions

Ask me a question
premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Ask an Orthopaedic Surgeon
Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
backtotop2
Suggest Treatment For Lower Back Muscle Strain

Brief Answer: Most likely lower back muscle strain. Detailed Answer: Hi Thank you for asking HCM I have gone through your query. Your problem can be most likely lower back muscle strain. Lower back muscle groups are more vulnerable to muscle strain. You should give rest for a short period like 5 to 7 days. You can do ice pack application for initial 2 days and then hot fomentation. Avoid leaning back or lift heavy weight for some days. You can take over the counter NSAIDs like Ibuprofen (motrin). Applying NSAID gels like diclofenac or ketoprofen localy also good. You can get those as over the counter like Volini gel. If there is no improvement after 1 week then consult an orthopedic surgeon and have x ray and MRI (if required) of lumbosacral spine to rule out injury to intervertebral discs or joints. Let me know if anything not clear. I am happy to help you. Thanks.