What muscles should I develop in my back to help provide more support for my spine?
What is the difference between a strain and a sprain?
Is it more difficult to treat a sprain/strain in the back?
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The most common back problems involve injuries to the muscles, muscle fascia, tendons, ligaments, and joint capsules of the spine. These collectively are referred to as sprains (ligaments) and strains (muscles and tendons). Other terms such as pulled muscle, torn muscle, muscle spasm, trigger points, fasciitis, and muscle cramps are used interchangeably. Further, in orthopedics and spinal medicine we like to classify sprains and strains into subcategories. A first degree injury is a slight tear or abnormal stretch, a second degree is a partial or incomplete tear, and a third degree is a complete tear or rupture.
When the muscles and associated structures in our back and neck are injured the symptoms can vary from a mild discomfort to sharp, severe pain depending on the nature and degree of the injury. Decreased function and or range of motion, pain that worsens with movement and muscle cramping may also accompany a sprain or strain.
Most sprains and strains tend to heal on their own. If you would like reassurance, or if your condition seems to not be healing, we suggest you contact Dr. Biscup with any questions you may have and be sure that you are on the proper path to recovery.
Learn about Sprain and Strain treatment options.
Do I need imaging studies for a correct diagnosis?
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Most therapeutic approaches incorporate several modalities including rest, ice and/or heat, gentle stretching and range of motion, massage therapy, physical therapy, medications, body supports, modified activities and exercise. Imaging studies are helpful to rule out other potential serious problems. Most often, a team approach needs to be employed to optimize the care and recovery of the patient.
At Biscup Spine we believe that communication amongst the health care providers is essential to avoid confusion and contradictory approaches. The overwhelming majority of patients with acute and chronic sprain/strain injuries to the back and neck will and do get better over time. The key is avoiding re-injury and participate in an ongoing back wellness and health maintenance program to help the spine fulfill its ongoing challenging role and function.
Dr. Biscup believes that spinal medicine and surgery has to be personalized to each patient. It is becoming more important and imperative that patients seek to educate themselves about their problems and take a more active role in selecting their health providers while actively participating in their personal care. Patients need to ask questions, challenge their physicians and therapists, and seek second or third opinions if necessary.
