Published on: 7/4/2025
How can I tell which lower back muscle I might have strained?
To identify which lower back muscle you might have strained, notice where the pain is located and how it feels when you move. Different muscles can cause different types of pain.
What brings you in today?
Explanation
When you strain a muscle in your lower back, it can be hard to know which one it is. The pain might feel different depending on which muscle is hurt.
Things to Look For:
- Location of Pain: If the pain is near your spine, it might involve the paraspinal muscles. These are the muscles that run along your spine and help you stand up straight.
- Type of Pain: A sharp pain might mean a different muscle is strained compared to a dull, aching pain.
- Movement: Notice if certain movements make the pain worse. If bending forward or lifting things hurts, it might be your paraspinal muscles.
Tips:
- Rest: Give your back time to heal by resting.
- Ice/Heat: Use ice or heat on the painful area to help feel better.
- Gentle Stretching: Light stretching can help your muscles heal.
If the pain doesn't get better, you might want to talk to a doctor to make sure everything is okay.
(References)
- Ingber RS. (1989). a treatable cause of "failed" low back syndrome. Archives of physical medicine and rehabilitation, 2524183.
- Ross R, Han J, & Slover J. (2023). Chronic Lower Back Pain in Weight Lifters. JBJS reviews, 37315158.
- Noonan AM, & Brown SHM. (2021). Paraspinal muscle pathophysiology associated with low .... JOR spine, 34611593.
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