How to diagnose lumbar muscle strain

Written by Li Jin
Orthopedics
Updated on February 04, 2025
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For the diagnosis of lumbar muscle strain, it is mainly based on symptoms, physical examination, or combined with imaging studies. The typical symptoms of lumbar muscle strain include soreness or swelling pain in the lower back, which worsens with exertion and lessens with rest. Patients are also unable to persist in activities that involve bending over. During a physical examination, tender points in the lower back may be found, or imaging studies can be used to rule out other lumbar spine conditions. Under these circumstances, a diagnosis of lumbar muscle strain can be made. Patients with lumbar muscle strain should pay attention to rest, and can use anti-inflammatory pain medications, combined with heat therapy, physiotherapy, massage, and blocking methods for treatment, which generally can effectively improve symptoms and promote recovery. (Specific medication use should be under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Li Jin
Orthopedics
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How to diagnose lumbar muscle strain

For the diagnosis of lumbar muscle strain, it is mainly based on symptoms, physical examination, or combined with imaging studies. The typical symptoms of lumbar muscle strain include soreness or swelling pain in the lower back, which worsens with exertion and lessens with rest. Patients are also unable to persist in activities that involve bending over. During a physical examination, tender points in the lower back may be found, or imaging studies can be used to rule out other lumbar spine conditions. Under these circumstances, a diagnosis of lumbar muscle strain can be made. Patients with lumbar muscle strain should pay attention to rest, and can use anti-inflammatory pain medications, combined with heat therapy, physiotherapy, massage, and blocking methods for treatment, which generally can effectively improve symptoms and promote recovery. (Specific medication use should be under the guidance of a doctor.)

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Written by Guan Jing Tao
Orthopedics
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Can I run with a strained lumbar muscle?

Generally, it is not recommended. For lumbar muscle strain, it is first advised to rest in bed. After the pain eases, one can take gentle walks and do some lumbar physiotherapy and heat applications. Exercises such as the 'little swallow flight' and other aerobic activities, as well as swimming, can be done. Jogging is also acceptable, but it is advised not to engage in fast, high-intensity, or prolonged running to avoid significant injury and fatigue to the lumbar muscles.

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Written by Li Jin
Orthopedics
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What department should I see for a lumbar muscle strain?

Lumbar muscle strain can be treated at the orthopedics department of a hospital. It is primarily caused by poor posture and chronic injury. Patients with lumbar muscle strain may experience symptoms such as lower back pain and limited mobility of the lower back. For the treatment of lumbar muscle strain, it is important to rest and develop correct habits for using the lower back. Symptomatic treatment with medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain relievers can also be used to alleviate pain. Additionally, Chinese medicine that promotes blood circulation and removes blood stasis can improve symptoms. Other treatment methods such as hot compresses, physical therapy, massage, and trigger point injections can also effectively improve symptoms.

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Written by Li Jin
Orthopedics
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What department should I go to for lumbar muscle strain?

Patients with lumbar muscle strain can visit the orthopedics department. Lumbar muscle strain is primarily caused by long-term heavy physical activities involving the lower back, poor posture, and chronic strain. Symptoms can include lower back pain and restricted movement, which typically lessen after rest and worsen after physical activity. For treating lumbar muscle strain, it is important to first ensure adequate rest and to develop proper habits for using the lower back, avoiding long-term heavy physical activities. Treatment can also involve the appropriate use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and analgesic medications, combined with heat application, physical therapy, massage, or nerve block techniques. These methods can effectively improve symptoms and promote recovery.

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Written by Li Jin
Orthopedics
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Is bloodletting useful for lumbar muscle strain?

Bloodletting therapy for lumbar muscle strain has no scientific basis, and improper operations can easily cause infections. Therefore, this method is not recommended. Lumbar muscle strain is primarily caused by poor posture and chronic strain, leading to symptoms such as back pain and limited mobility. The main treatment for lumbar muscle strain involves rest and developing correct habits for using the back. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain relief medications can be used in combination to alleviate pain. Other treatment methods such as heat application, physical therapy, massage, or trigger point injections can also be adopted. Generally, these methods can effectively relieve symptoms. (Specific medications should be used under the guidance of a physician.)