Can lumbar muscle strain be treated with massage?

Written by Sun Shu Jian

Orthopedics

Updated on March 24, 2025

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Lumbar muscle strain in the non-acute phase can be treated with massage therapy. Lumbar muscle strain is a chronic aseptic inflammation caused by overexertion of the lower back, related to factors such as prolonged sitting and long periods of bending. It can cause pain in the lower back and limited movement. In addition to massage therapy, treatments for lumbar muscle strain can include local heat application, infrared radiation, and electromagnetic therapy. It is also advisable to change daily lifestyle habits by avoiding prolonged sitting and bending, and avoiding exposure to cold. Appropriate exercises to strengthen back muscles, acupuncture, massage, and when necessary, the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and muscle relaxant medications can also be used for treatment.

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Written by Guan Yu Hua

Orthopedic Surgery

1min 36sec

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What are the symptoms of lumbar muscle strain?

Lumbar muscle strain, also known as functional back pain, chronic lumbar injury, and lumbar-gluteal fasciitis, etc., is actually chronic inflammation of the lumbar muscles and their attachment points, such as the fascia or periosteum. It is one of the most common causes of back pain. The main symptoms include swelling and soreness in the lumbar and sacral regions, recurring pain, which is often related to the weather, such as feeling cold. Factors such as daytime fatigue can aggravate it, rest can alleviate it, and the intensity of pain can vary. Sometimes, it is severe and other times it is mild. For instance, some people feel stiff as a board in the morning upon waking up and are afraid to move; this is a typical manifestation. Physical examination can confirm the condition, and some diagnostic tests like lumbar disc CT or MRI can help differentiate if there is any lumbar disc herniation. Additionally, it is also important to distinguish from conditions like piriformis syndrome, which generally involves sciatica, and symptoms like numbness and pain in the lower limbs. Once diagnosed, the first step is strict bed rest, and appropriate blood-activating and pain-relieving medication can be administered. Local heat application, massage, and electrotherapy are some of the physical treatments available. It is advisable to avoid lifting or moving heavy objects routinely, as these activities can impose significant strain on the back and are not conducive to the recovery from back ailments.

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Written by Cheng Bin

Orthopedics

56sec

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Is lumbar muscle strain serious?

For severe lumbar muscle strain, in cases where the strain is not very severe, it usually manifests as the patient primarily experiencing symptoms of soreness and pain in the lower back. For such patients, full recovery is still possible with active cooperation in treatment. First, it is necessary to reduce local irritation by strictly resting and protecting the affected area, which is the best condition for patient recovery. It is important to avoid prolonged sitting or standing, excessive bending or lifting heavy objects. It is advisable to wear a lumbar support belt to protect the lower back and actively apply local treatments such as heat application, massage, acupuncture, and cupping. Additionally, topical application of ointments that invigorate the blood and dispel stasis can also be used. Most patients will gradually recover through these active treatment methods.

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Written by Li Jin

Orthopedics

48sec

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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 Wang Cheng Lin

Orthopedics

1min 22sec

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What should I do if I have a lumbar muscle strain?

The recurrence of lumbar muscle strain primarily requires rest as the first measure; it is essential to rest in bed and avoid exerting the muscles in the lower back. Secondly, some external plasters can be applied, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory and analgesic plasters, as well as plasters that promote blood circulation and remove blood stasis, to alleviate pain in the lower back. Thirdly, some physical therapy methods can be used, such as massage, acupuncture, electrotherapy, and magnet therapy to relieve the pain in the muscles of the lower back. However, among these methods, rest is the most important, including being cautious with methods of exercise and training. For instance, some people prefer running, while others enjoy playing ball sports; generally, patients with lumbar muscle strain should absolutely avoid these kinds of activities. If they engage in strenuous activities even once, the lumbar muscle strain will recur. It is recommended for patients with lumbar muscle strain who enjoy exercise to consider swimming; swimming is a non-weight-bearing form of exercise that does not aggravate the condition but can strengthen the muscles in the lower back, alleviating the symptoms of lumbar muscle strain. (Please use medication under the guidance of a professional physician.)

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Written by Lv Yao

Orthopedics

37sec

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Symptoms of lumbar muscle strain

Lumbar muscle strain refers to the condition where the muscles in the lower back are damaged due to chronic labor or sports activities, leading to excessive contraction of muscle fibers. This results in localized pain and limited mobility. The main symptoms include feeling soreness and pain during flexion and extension of the waist, and even feelings of weakness. The affected individual may not be able to carry heavy loads for long periods and, in severe cases, may not be able to stand upright and may require bed rest, accompanied by spasms in the lower back.