If you play sports such as tennis, baseball, basketball or others that require a lot of upper body movement, you are at a higher risk of developing a back muscle injury. Your back can also be injured if you work in a job that requires you to lift or twist on a regular basis. Back muscles can be torn, pulled, twisted or strained. A muscle strain occurs when when the muscle or the tendon that attaches it to a bone becomes overstretched. A back muscle strain can happen as a result of an accident, from using improper body mechanics or when working out too hard. If you notice back muscle strain symptoms, you need to take care of your injury to prevent it from getting worse or becoming chronic.
Pain
If you strain a muscle in your back, you may feel pain whenever you move the affected area, according to the Penn State Milton S. Hershey Medical Center website. The pain may be dull, or it can resemble a burning sensation depending on the severity of your injury. If your back muscle strain was the result of an injury, you may feel or hear a popping sensation when the muscle or tendon is overstretched. At first your pain may only occur when moving your back. If left untreated your pain may become chronic and occur when you are resting as well.
Swelling
The affected area of the back may also swell and turn a reddish color. If there was damage to nearby blood vessels, you may develop a bruise. You may need a period of rest, ice, compression, and medications for pain and inflammation to help your muscle heal. Your doctor may also recommend that you use a wrap or brace to immobilize the area for a week or two. If your injury does not respond to conservative treatment, if the swelling continues to get worse or you develop a fever you need to see your doctor right away. Once your muscle strain gets better, participating in a strength training program for the abdominal muscles and the back will help to reduce your chances of another back muscle strain.
Muscle Spasms
After you strain a back muscle, you may experience muscle spasms. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, your back muscles may cramp and become weak. If the muscle sprain turns into a muscle tear, your symptoms will be severe. You may be unable to move the affected area at all if the muscle is actually torn. Warming up before you train and avoiding over training can help to prevent future muscle strains. Working with a physical therapist can help you learn good work habits and how to participate in your favorite sports without re-injuring your back.
