Backs Can Sprain Too, Not Just Injuries!

Differences, triggers, symptoms, and how to prevent and overcome them Back Strain & Sprain

Did you know that around 80% of people experience back pain from various sources of problems? In fact, according to PH Remedial Massage Indonesia statistics, 11 out of 25 clients suffer from back pain. In most cases, the pain appears in the lower back or in the lumbar spine, as this area functions to help the body move, twist, and bend. However, the back does not always become painful due to muscle tension, the back can be sprained due to sudden movements and poorly trained back muscles.

So, what is the difference between a back muscle strain and a sprain? Check out the complete explanation in the following article!

A.  Difference Back Sprain & Strain

Back Sprain: occurs when ligaments, the fibrous connective tissue that connects two or more bones in a joint, are stretched or torn. As a result, the space for joint movement becomes limited because the position of the joint changes from its normal position. If a sprained back is not treated immediately it can lead to injury.

Back Strain: injury to the muscles or tendons, namely the fibrous connective tissue that connects muscles to bones, so that the muscles and tendons of the spine are twisted, pulled, or torn due to overstretching of the back muscles. Generally, the muscles around the spine that often experience tension include the sternocleidomastoid (SCM), rhomboids, trapezius, and levator scapulae.

Although a strain on the back muscles is different from a sprain, both cause inflammation in the soft tissue, which can interfere with daily activities.

B.  Trigger of Back Sprain & Strain

The following things are considered to be triggers of back strain & sprain, among others:

1. Lifting items that are too heavy and using the back muscles too tense or excessive either during exercise or just daily activities, which in the end can make the muscles become tired;
2. If twisting or bending the body with the wrong posture and the muscles are not properly prepared;
3. If the hamstrings are strained and not treated immediately, it can spread to the back;
4. Being overweight makes the back muscles work extra to hold up the body; And
5. Then, there is a health or genetic condition where the back or abdominal muscles are weakened.

C.  Symptoms of Back Strain & Sprain

Back sprain & strain on the same symptoms, including the following:

1. Pain that is deep and shooting and feels like it is burning. The condition gets worse when moving;
2. The back feels numb or tingling;
3. Sudden and uncontrollable muscle contractions (muscle spasms) or cramps;
4. There may be inflammation, swelling and bruising due to tissue damage and slight bleeding;
5. Decreased function and/or limited range of motion of joints making it difficult to walk, bend over or stand upright;
6. A popping or tearing sound at the time of injury in some cases;
7. If healing is hindered or there is a re-injury, the back pain may become chronic and long-lasting.

D.  Tips for Prevention and Overcoming Back Strain & Sprain

1. Eat healthy and nutritionally balanced foods to maintain your health and muscle strength.
2. Maintain an ideal body weight, because excessive body weight will increase the load supported by the lower body.
3. Be diligent in exercising regularly and stretch between breaks to keep your muscles in good condition and flexible. Exercise such as yoga, swimming, cycling, and brisk walking are very beneficial for maintaining back health. However, don't force yourself when exercising because excessive exercise can also make your back hurt.
4. Wear appropriate shoes so that your thigh muscles don't work extra hard and disrupt your body's balance.
5. Position your body properly when sitting, standing, or lifting heavy objects. Try to keep your back straight and your shoulders straight back. When sitting, try to keep your back leaned back and your feet flat on the floor. Meanwhile, when lifting heavy objects, bend your knees and use your leg muscles to help balance the load.
6. Stop smoking because smoking can inhibit blood flow to the muscles, increasing your risk of back pain and slowing the healing process.
7. Managing stress management yourself can well reduce it risk of back pain.
8. If your back starts to hurt, don't hesitate to check yourself at PH Remedial Massage Indonesia! Get it Remedial Massage treatment and consultation so that your muscles can return to their normal position and shape. Schedule your visit to PH Remedial Massage Indonesia by contacting our WhatsApp: 08111338137 now!

By Rastianta Rinandani and Glen Stevano Tanihatu

Source:

• https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/10265-back-strains-and-sprains
• https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/back-sprains-strains
• https://spineconnection.org/back-pain-conditions/sprains-and-strains/