Treatment for a Torn Upper Back Muscle

Back muscles are prone to strains and tears, like any other muscles.

The muscles of the upper back are a complex network of interconnected systems that stabilize the spine and allow movement of the trunk, arms and shoulders. The major muscles of the upper back include the rhomboids and trapezius, both of which are prone to injury, like any other muscle.

Grade 1 Tear

Grade 1 tears are usually mild and can be treated with rest, ice, compression and elevation.

Grade 2 Tear

Grade 2 tears bring on more persistent pain and, at times, swelling or mild spasms. Treatments usually include rest, ice or heat, sports massage, ultrasound procedures and anti-inflammatory medications.

Grade 3 Tear

Grade 3 tears are full ruptures or serious separations of muscle fibers. These can cause swelling, bruising and an inability to raise arms or shoulders without extreme pain. Treatments include immobilizing the muscle group, prescription anti-inflammatory and pain medications, or surgery to repair the muscle, depending on the location and severity of the injury. Most surgery is followed by physical therapy and rehabilitation.

Causes

Upper back tears usually occur from overuse of an arm and/or shoulder. These injuries often occur from overhead motions such as serving in tennis, baseball pitching, lifting heavy objects or repetitive motions such as rowing.

Prevention

Proper warmup and stretching of the entire back before and after exercise can help prevent injury. Exercises to develop back muscle strength, along with eating a proper diet, taking vitamins and staying hydrated can also help prevent injuries.

References

• Sportsinjuryclinic.net: Low Back Pain/Muscle Strain
• Aetna Intelihealth: Muscle Strain
• Easyfizzy Sports Rehabilitation: Rhomboid Muscle Strain or Spasm