Treatment for a Strained Muscle Injury in the Back

At the onset of a back muscle strain, use RICE.

A stained muscle occurs when some fibers of a muscle or its tendon are overstretched or torn. The treatment for a strained muscle injury in the back is the same as for all strained muscles.

RICE

At the onset of a muscle strain, use RICE (rest, ice, compression and elevation). Rest the injured area and ice it to reduce pain and swelling. If possible, wrap an elastic bandage around the strained muscle and keep it elevated above your heart (might not be possible with a back muscle).

Pain Relief

You can use anti-inflammatory medications (such as ibuprofen) to relieve pain.

Exercise and Physical Therapy

After the first 48 to 72 hours, you can usually start strengthening or stretching exercises. The exact exercises will depend on which muscle you strained. A physical therapist can help with exercises and possibly other physical therapy techniques.

Massage Therapy

Massage therapy can have two benefits for strained muscles. A massage relaxes the muscle tension that accompanies injury. Also, properly done cross-fiber friction massage on the injury helps stimulate healing.

Expert Insight

According to the Penn State College of Medicine, to help prevent muscle strains, warm up for at least 10 minutes before doing any strenuous exercise or heavy lifting. Warming up increases the blood circulation to muscles, getting them ready for exercise.

References

• Penn State: Muscle Strain
• Muscular Strain