Ace Physiotherapy and Sports in Singapore
What is muscular lower back pain?
Muscular lower back pain refers to discomfort in the lumbar spine caused by injury or strain to the muscles in that region. Physiotherapy is an effective treatment for this type of pain, helping to relieve symptoms and restore function.
How does muscular lower back pain happen?
Muscular lower back pain is commonly caused by poor sitting postures, repetitive bending and twisting movements, or wear and tear of the lumbar spine joints. These factors place extra strain on the muscles supporting the lower back, which can lead to damage and weakness. Additionally, pregnancy, osteoporosis, and being overweight can increase the risk of developing muscular lower back pain. Often, this type of pain develops gradually, with symptoms becoming noticeable only once the condition worsens. For this reason, maintaining good posture and staying active are important steps to help prevent muscular lower back pain.
What are the symptoms of muscular lower back pain?
Symptoms of muscular lower back pain include aching and pain in the muscles surrounding the lumbar spine. Muscle spasms and tenderness are common, often making movement difficult and painful. In more severe cases, nearby nerves may become irritated or pinched, leading to neurological symptoms such as numbness, pins and needles, and weakness.
What should I do if I have muscular lower back pain?
You should seek professional help as soon as you begin experiencing symptoms of lower back pain. Your GP may prescribe painkillers or anti-inflammatory medications to help reduce pain and inflammation. Muscle relaxants might also be recommended to ease muscle spasms. Starting physiotherapy promptly is important to optimise your recovery and prevent long-term complications.
What shouldn’t I do if I have muscular lower back pain?
Do not ignore symptoms of muscular lower back pain, as this can worsen the condition and make it harder to manage over time. Avoid relying too heavily on painkillers to mask the pain completely, as this might lead you to perform activities that place excessive strain on your lower back without realizing it. Bed rest is actually the worst approach for muscular lower back pain because it increases stiffness and weakens the muscles supporting the lumbar spine. Staying active within your comfort zone is essential for recovery.
Physiotherapy treatment for muscular lower back pain.
Your physiotherapy programme will focus on stretching and strengthening exercises for the affected muscles to maintain a strong back and support the lumbar spine. Cardiovascular activities like swimming, hydrotherapy, and cycling are important to stay active and keep the lower back mobile. Cold and heat therapies can help relieve pain and are often used before and after exercise sessions to aid recovery.
Could there be any long-term effects from muscular lower back pain?
Muscular lower back pain typically resolves within 6 to 8 weeks with physiotherapy and prescribed medication. However, if nerve involvement is present, recovery may take significantly longer. Physiotherapy is also effective in managing associated neurological symptoms.
To arrange an appointment, please call +65 81535374 or visit acephysiosports.com.
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