Physical Therapy for Back (Lumbar) Sprain and Strain

What is low back (lumbar) sprain?

A low back (lumbar) sprain is the most common cause of low back pain. It is important to recognize the difference between a low back muscle strain as opposed to a lumbar sprain. A low back muscle strain occurs when the muscle fibers in the back are abnormally stretched or torn. A lumbar sprain, on the other hand, occurs when the ligaments in the back are torn from their attachments.  Back pain is extremely common and almost everyone will experience it at some point or another during their lifetime.  Some of the most common causes of a low back (lumbar) strain are automobile (car) accidents, prolonged sitting, lifting heavy objects, and repetitive bending and twisting.  It is important to seek some form of treatment as soon as possible to avoid further aggravating the injury, especially that the spine is critical for the normal function of the human body, and given that chronic episodes of this condition require long recovery time.

Symptoms of low back (lumbar) sprain

  • pain around the lower back and buttocks.
  • pain radiating down the front, side, or back of your leg, or confined to low back.
  • pain associated with activities.
  • low back muscle spasms.
  • numbness, tingling, and weakness in the part of the leg that receives its nerve supply from a compressed nerve.

Low back (lumbar) sprain treatment

On the first visit, our physical therapists will assess your condition and design a customized treatment plan depending the cause of the injury, its severity, and your overall health condition. 

In the first phase of treatment (i.e. acute phase), our physical therapists will focus on reducing the swelling, pain, and muscle spasm using the following treatments:
  • electrical stimulation
  • soft tissue massage
  • ultrasound
  • muscle reeducation (muscle energy technique)
In the second treatment phase, our physical therapists will start incorporating the following conditioning therapeutic exercises and activities in the teratment plan to improve and restore function:
  • stretching exercises
  • postural exercises
  • strengthing exercise
  • range of motion exercises
In the third and final phase of treatment, our physical therapists will assist and train the patient to return to their normal level of daily activities and sports.

Call us today at 240-724-6781 to schedule a consultation and start getting relief for your condition.

Read about related conditions: whiplash & neck injuries