Muscle Pain And Your Back
Muscle pain along the spine and back is very common and may include lower, middle and/or upper back pain.
Up to 85% of adults will suffer from moderate to severe muscular back pain at some point in their lives.
Most cases of acute lower back pain is caused by damage to the ligaments or muscles.
The two most common causes of lower back pain include muscle and ligament strain, but treatment for both are the same.
Lower back muscle pain is surely the worst form of back pain as the muscles of the lumbar region are used to support the body in every position.
There are three muscle types which support the spine:
- Extensors
- Flexors
- Obliques
Common Causes Of Back Muscle Pain
A back muscle sprain begins when ligaments are overstretched or torn. It is mostly caused by a movement which puts excess stress on the lower back.
Typically this happens from sports-related or other injuries.
It is also important to remember that, if you are stressed, muscular pain or trauma can be a direct consequence.
Other possible causes of back pain include:
- Osteoporosis
- Sciatica
- Arthritis
- Stress
Although the cause of back pain is different for everyone, the same symptoms are experienced by all.
Symptoms Of Back Muscle Pain
While back pain is usually not serious, it can become extremely painful and severely influence the sufferer’s quality of life.
It can affect a person’s movement to the point where they are totally immobile.
Sometimes it may only be the result of a pulled muscle.
If you suspect you have pulled a muscle, look out for the following symptoms:
- Standing or walking may be difficult
- Muscle spasms
- Pain that comes on suddenly
- Pain in the lower back
Treatment Options
In order to treat back muscle pain effectively, you can opt for one or more of the following treatments:
- Chiropractic care – manual manipulation will help to loosen tight muscles.
- A massage – massage will release endorphins, the body’s natural painkillers.
- Physiotherapy – a physiotherapist can prescribe exercise for the long-term.
- Ice or cold packs – this can help reduce inflammation.
- Heat Therapy – heat stimulates blood flow to the affected area.
All of the above will loosen the muscles and promote healing.
Pain medication, anti-inflammatories and muscle relaxants are often prescribed.
Unfortunately, all prescription medication comes with a risk of side effects.
The side effects caused by prescribed drugs can be far worse than any muscle pain.
In severe cases, surgery may even be needed.
For more treatment options, please read Treating Lower Back Pain In A Few Easy steps.
Home Treatment Options
You could avoid muscle pain altogether by following a few simple rules:
- Stretch every day
- Exercise every day
- Drink plenty of fluids
You should also follow these guidelines:
Warm Up
Before doing ANY exercise whatsoever, be sure to warm up.
Try going for a brisk walk before any strenuous activity.
Exercise
Daily exercise can also make a huge difference when it comes to strengthening back muscle.
Muscles require adequate exercise so they do not weaken over time.
Stop
If your muscles begin to cramp, immediately stop what you are doing.
By knowing your body well, you will know how far you are able to push it.
Walk It Out
Once a cramp passes, be sure not to start exercising right away.
Instead, walk for a few minutes to get the blood flowing back into the muscles.
Stretch
A combination of stretching and low impact aerobic exercise will help strengthen the back muscles and prevent muscle tightness or injury.
Even if you’re stiff, make sure to do a good, thorough stretch before and after every workout.
Take A Swim
One of the best remedies for sore muscles is swimming.
Know your limits.
By knowing what your body is capable of, you can prevent muscle pain, soreness, and stiffness.
Knowledge is power.
Keep Warm
When the weather is cold, be sure to keep warm.
Wrap up in layers before you go out in order to avoid muscle cramping.
Relax
Remember to relax, especially if you know you have overworked your muscles.
By taking time out of a busy day for yourself, you can spare your muscles AND the pain of injury.
Please read Long-Term Treatment For Back Pain for more information on treatment options.
