What does straining a back muscle feel like?
Strained muscles usually feel sore, tight, or achy. Pain that feels hot, tingling, or electric is more likely caused by an irritated nerve root, not a pulled muscle. Intensified pain with movement. Low back strain typically worsens with specific movements that activate the affected muscles.
What is a muscle strain in anatomy?
Overview. A muscle strain is an injury to a muscle or a tendon — the fibrous tissue that connects muscles to bones. Minor injuries may only overstretch a muscle or tendon, while more severe injuries may involve partial or complete tears in these tissues.
How do back muscle strains happen?
Twisting or pulling a muscle or tendon can result in a strain. It can also be caused by a single instance of improper lifting or by overstressing the back muscles. A chronic (long-term) strain usually results from overuse after prolonged, repetitive movement of the muscles and tendons.
How long does it take for a back strain to heal?
Back muscle strains typically heal with time, many within a few days, and most within 3 to 4 weeks. Most patients with mild or moderate lumbar strains make a full recovery and are free of symptoms within days, weeks, or possibly months.
How do you treat a strained back muscle?
Treating a Pulled Back Muscle in 8 Steps
- Apply cold. Cold helps reduce inflammation, which is the primary source of pain in the first few days.
- Use compression.
- Rest.
- Stretch.
- Pain medication.
- Perform strength exercises.
- Get a massage.
- Apply heat.
How long does it take for a pulled muscle in your back to heal?
Compared to many other kinds of back injuries, a pulled muscle is usually straightforward to diagnose and easy to treat, and symptoms usually resolve within 4 to 6 weeks. Some severe muscle injuries, such as a complete muscle tear, can take months to heal.
Can a back strain last for months?