What happens if you sprain your lower back?
Spraining your lower back, also known as a lumbar sprain, occurs when the ligaments connecting the vertebrae in your spine are overstretched or torn. Here's what can happen if you sprain your lower back:
1. Pain:
- You'll likely experience pain in the lower back region. The pain can range from mild to severe and may worsen with movement or certain positions.
2. Muscle Spasm:
- To protect the injured area, the muscles around your lower back may go into spasm. This can cause stiffness and restricted movement.
3. Limited Range of Motion:
- The pain and muscle spasms may limit your ability to move your lower back freely, making it difficult to bend, twist, or stand up straight.
4. Swelling and Bruising:
- Depending on the severity of the sprain, you may experience swelling and bruising in the affected area.
5. Difficulty Standing or Walking:
- In some cases, the pain and limited mobility can make it challenging to stand or walk without discomfort.
6. Numbness and Tingling:
- If the sprain affects certain nerves in the lower back, you may experience numbness or tingling in one or both legs. This is a more severe symptom that should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
7. Aggravation of Sciatica:
- If you have an existing condition called sciatica, a lumbar sprain can aggravate the pain and symptoms, causing increased leg pain and nerve irritation.
8. Muscle Weakness:
- Over time, if the sprain is not properly managed and rehabilitated, it can lead to muscle weakness in the lower back.
9. Recurrence:
- Sprains that are not allowed to heal properly or are subjected to repetitive strain can lead to recurrent episodes of lower back pain.
10. Chronic Lower Back Pain:
- In severe cases, a lumbar sprain that is not appropriately treated can lead to chronic lower back pain, impacting daily activities and quality of life.
If you suspect you've sprained your lower back, it's important to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a doctor or physiotherapist, to get a proper diagnosis, treatment plan, and rehabilitation exercises to ensure proper healing and prevent long-term complications.