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Back Injury : Acute Back Strain or SprainThis refers to a tearing or pulling injury to the muscles or ligaments that support the back and spine. Any tearing injury to a muscle is referred to as a strain. The same kind of injury to the ligaments (which hold each vertebra together) is referred to as a sprain. Both injuries can produce pain that generally intensifies slowly over the first 24 hours. Severe sprains, where ligaments rupture, can lead to instability of the vertebra. In this case, the vertebra shift from their normal positions, resulting in a spinal cord injury. This could only occur when tremendous force has been applied to the spine (motor vehicle accident, or a fall). Most acute back strains and sprains occur as the result of lifting, straining, stooping or twisting. Common symptoms include pain in the muscles located along the sides of the spine. Pain will increase with movement. Stiffness with pain makes sitting up, stooping, or bending forward almost almost impossible. Evaluation will include examination for any nerve involvement. Spine x-rays help rule out fracture or malalignment. Degenerative arthritis may also appear on bone x-rays. SELF HELP MEASURES* Aspirin or anti-inflammatories for pain (e.g. Motrin, Naprosyn) * Bedrest on a firm mattress, in a position of comfort. * Moist heat can help reduce the symptom of stiffness (and spasm) if applied 24 hours AFTER the injury. Early application to an acute strain can increase swelling and pain. Use cold compresses in the first 24 hours. Any persistence of symptoms after several days should prompt the patient to seek IMMEDIATE medical attention. Patients with symptoms of numbness, tingling, back pain radiating down one leg, or weakness to an extremity need prompt PHYSICIAN evaluation. With an acute strain, your doctor will likely prescribe a pain medication, anti-inflammatory agent, and a muscle relaxant. Excuse from work is common, also restrictions on lifting (light duty). Recovery ranges from 6-8 weeks. Weight loss will be advised where appropriate. Exercises to strengthen the abdominal muscles (after the acute strain has healed) can help decrease stress placed on the lower back and prevent reinjury. Additional tips on preventing backache can be found under chronic back pain and strain.
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