Strains and sprains are some of the most common soft tissue injuries that affect the muscles and ligaments, respectively. When a muscle is strained, there is a tear in its tissue that occurs due to over-stretching. It is also known as a pulled back muscle.
This problem can occur in any of the three major parts of the back – the lumbar spine, thoracic spine, as well as the cervical spine, although they most commonly tend to occur in the lower back.
Causes
Muscle injuries occur mostly due to overuse of a specific muscle or muscle group, including those of the back. This can happen due to factors such as:
- Falls, injuries or sudden movements that stretch out the spine.
- Lifting heavy weights that overexert the muscles.
- Performing repetitive twisting motions with one’s back.
- Weakened core muscles, which do not properly support the spine.
Risk factors
There are certain factors that increase one’s risk of developing a muscle strain, including:
- Lifting heavy weights as part of a workout routine, especially when one lifts heavier than the muscle is able to sustain.
- Working in a role that requires lifting of heavy weights as well as frequent twisting and bending of the back.
- Being overweight and carrying excess weight which can increase the stress that is placed on the spine.
- Not exercising enough and having a sedentary lifestyle can lead to the weakening of back and core muscles, and as such these muscle groups do not have sufficient strength to support the torso and can become strained.
- Poor lifting techniques when handling heavy weights. An incorrect form can harm your back.
Symptoms
- Muscle spasms in the back, which feel like cramping or twitching of the affected muscles.
- Pain in the specific region where the pulled back muscle is located. The pain that results typically manifests locally, but it can also spread to other parts of the back or body, and it tends to worsen when performing certain movements.
- Stiffness and limited range of movement that makes it difficult to twist or bend your back.
Treatment
Muscle strains are typically not something to worry about as they tend to heal on their own with sufficient rest. However, in order to soothe the pain, you can try a few home remedies such as:
- Applying head to the affected muscle/group of muscles by using a heating pad. This increases blood flow, which can help reduce discomfort.
- Alternatively, you can apply ice packs locally to reduce swelling and inflammation.
- Using over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain medication to reduce the pain and inflammation in the short term.
- Rest and allow the muscle to heal. Avoid performing any intense activities that may further strain your back.
- Use a spinal decompression device, such as the Backrack, to relieve any pain and stiffness caused by muscle strains in the back or neck.
What is the Backrack Spinal Decompression Device?
Why use the Spinal Backrack
Performing as little as 20 minutes of exercise on the Backrack can help alleviate the pain caused by muscle strains, as well as many other spinal issues. The reason why the device is so effective is because it uses only your own body weight – meaning you don’t have to place additional strain on your already injured back – to massage your spine and relieve tension in the painful area.
Please Note: If your strain is not healing after a period of a few weeks, it is recommended that you seek medical advice from a qualified medical professional.
Author: Spinal Backrack
