Back Strains and Sprains
Back strains and sprains are among the most common injuries people experience, whether from heavy lifting, sports, or simply twisting the wrong way. This article aims to provide an understanding of these injuries, their causes, diagnosis, treatment options, and prevention strategies.
Paspa Physical Therapy in Manhattan, New York, offers expert one-on-one care for individuals recovering from back injuries. If you’re experiencing discomfort or limited movement, contact our experienced team today to receive the personalized treatment you deserve.
What Are Strains and Sprains?
Strains and sprains are two types of soft tissue injuries, often confused but distinctly different.
- Strains affect muscles or tendons, especially in areas like the back muscles or abdominal muscles, resulting from overstretching or tearing. A lumbar strain is a common type affecting the lower back.
- Sprains occur when ligaments, the tissues that hold bones together, are stretched or torn, often due to sudden movements or trauma.
Both injuries can cause pain, swelling, stiffness, muscle spasms, and reduced mobility. Because the spine is a complex structure, even minor injuries can lead to significant discomfort and disruption of daily life.
What Causes Back Sprains and Strains?
Back strains and sprains can happen in an instant or develop gradually due to overuse. Here are common causes:
- Improper lifting of heavy objects without bending the knees.
- A sudden twist while turning or reaching.
- Repetitive movements, especially involving the side muscles or lower back.
- Poor posture and weak core or muscle strength.
- Playing sports or engaging in physical activity without a proper warm-up.
These common injuries often affect individuals with sedentary lifestyles or those returning to activity too quickly. At Paspa Physical Therapy, we work with patients to identify the root causes of injury and prevent recurrence.
How Are Back Strains and Sprains Diagnosed?
Diagnosis starts with a thorough medical history and physical exam. Your provider will ask about your symptoms, activity level, and any recent incidents. Sometimes, imaging such as an X-ray or MRI scan is used to rule out more serious issues involving the bones or blood vessels.
When you visit Paspa Physical Therapy, you receive care from licensed professionals, not aides or trainers. Our experienced therapists evaluate your condition and create customized plans using tools like electrical muscle stimulation, gentle massage, and supervised exercises. Learn more about our physical therapy services.
How Physical Therapy Can Help
At Paspa Physical Therapy, we treat one patient at a time, providing focused, personalized care in private treatment rooms and a full gym environment.
Physical therapy helps relieve pain and restore mobility through:
- Manual therapy techniques for muscle spasms and tightness.
- Strength-building and core-strengthening routines.
- Use of electrical muscle stimulation for faster healing.
- Education on posture and movement to maintain a normal position of the spine.
- Pelvic traction can be used in some cases
Many patients come to us with chronic low back pain or a history of back injuries. Our goal is to help you achieve a full recovery and return to your normal routine as quickly as possible, often within a few weeks.
How Can Back Sprains and Strains Be Prevented?
Preventing back strain or sprain starts with lifestyle habits:
- Maintain a healthy weight to avoid overloading your back.
- Build muscle strength, especially in your core.
- Stretch and warm up before heavy lifting or exercise.
- Avoid sudden movements and learn proper lifting techniques.
- Stay active to keep your back flexible and strong.
Addressing posture and activity habits early can prevent the most common complication of these types of injuries, chronic pain.
When Should I Contact My Healthcare Provider?
While many back sprains and strains improve on their own, see your primary care provider or physical therapist if you experience:
- Severe pain that doesn’t improve.
- Limited mobility affecting your daily life.
- Symptoms of nerve involvement, such as tingling or numbness.
- Pain that worsens despite ice packs, bed rest, or over-the-counter pain relievers like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.
In rare cases, advanced interventions such as surgery may be necessary, but these are typically reserved for persistent or complex cases.
Start Healing with Paspa Physical Therapy
Paspa Physical Therapy in Manhattan is dedicated to helping you recover from back strains and sprains with one-on-one, expert care. We never delegate treatment to aides. Your sessions are always led by experienced physical therapists.
If you’re struggling with low back pain, back sprains, or chronic pain, let our team guide you toward a safer, stronger recovery. Reach out today to begin your customized rehabilitation journey.
Our Services
Condition and Injuries We Treat