Strains: Symptoms, Concerns, and Recovery Tips

Possible inquiries about strains?

Hello Dr.
Wang,
I had an incident at home where the floor was wet, and while I was using a mat to wipe it dry, I slipped slightly in a side-split stance.
Although I didn't fall, I felt a bit of strain.
Currently, I don't have any unusual sensations when bending or twisting, and there's no pain—just a slight soreness when I bend.
However, I did experience a similar feeling when stretching down yesterday.

I would like to know if this slip could have caused a strain in my lower back, as I'm not very clear on the symptoms of a back strain.
Additionally, I'm concerned about the possibility of a spinal or joint fracture, but since I don't feel any pain, I'm hesitant to go to an orthopedic doctor for an X-ray, fearing that it might be an overreaction.
My family thinks it’s probably just a mild strain and that I shouldn't worry too much.

If it is indeed a strain, would it be appropriate for me to use a warm towel for heat therapy while taking a shower? Thank you.

p, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/04/26

Dr. Wang Zhaomin reply Rehabilitation

Sudden changes in posture can indeed lead to a lumbar strain, commonly referred to as a "pulled back." Generally, this should not cause a spinal fracture.
If X-rays have already been taken, a fracture can be ruled out.
Initially, you can apply a warm towel or heating pad along with simple stretching exercises to alleviate the pain.
If symptoms persist and do not improve, it is advisable to visit an orthopedic or rehabilitation specialist for early diagnosis and treatment.

Reply Date: 2020/04/26

More Info

Hello! It sounds like you had a concerning incident while cleaning your floor, and it's completely understandable to be worried about potential injuries, especially when it comes to your back. Let’s break down your situation regarding strains, symptoms, and recovery tips.

Understanding Strains
A strain occurs when muscles or tendons (the tissues that connect muscles to bones) are stretched or torn. This can happen due to sudden movements, awkward positions, or overexertion. In your case, the sideways movement you described while trying to clean could potentially lead to a strain, especially if you felt any discomfort afterward.

Symptoms of a Strain
Common symptoms of a muscle strain include:
1. Pain: This can be immediate or develop over time. It may be sharp or dull.

2. Swelling: The area may become swollen or inflamed.

3. Stiffness: You might experience difficulty moving the affected area.

4. Muscle Spasms: Involuntary contractions of the muscle can occur.

5. Bruising: Discoloration may appear if there is bleeding under the skin.

In your case, since you mentioned feeling a bit of soreness when bending but no sharp pain, it’s possible you may have experienced a mild strain. However, it’s important to note that not all strains are accompanied by severe pain, especially in the early stages.

Concerns About More Serious Injuries
While it’s less common, it’s possible to sustain more serious injuries such as ligament sprains, disc injuries, or even fractures, especially if there was a significant force involved. However, if you are not experiencing severe pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in your legs, it’s less likely that you have a serious injury.

When to Seek Medical Attention
You should consider seeing a healthcare professional if:
- Pain worsens over time.

- You experience swelling or bruising that increases.

- You have difficulty moving or bearing weight on the affected area.

- You notice any neurological symptoms, such as numbness or tingling.

Recovery Tips
1. Rest: Avoid activities that exacerbate the pain. Give your body time to heal.

2. Ice: Apply ice packs to the affected area for 15-20 minutes every hour as needed to reduce swelling and numb the pain.

3. Heat: After the first 48 hours, you can switch to heat therapy (like warm towels) to help relax and loosen tissues and stimulate blood flow.

4. Gentle Stretching: Once the acute pain subsides, gentle stretching and strengthening exercises can help restore flexibility and strength. However, avoid any movements that cause pain.

5. Over-the-Counter Pain Relief: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen can help reduce pain and inflammation.

Conclusion
Given your description, it sounds like you may have experienced a mild strain. It’s wise to monitor your symptoms closely. If you notice any changes or if the discomfort persists, don’t hesitate to seek medical advice. It’s always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to potential injuries. In the meantime, following the recovery tips mentioned above should help you manage your symptoms effectively. Take care, and I hope you feel better soon!

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