What causes severe lower back pain from overexertion during a seated forward bend, and what should be done about it?
Jan 30, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Shuai
Introduction
Common causes of severe lower back pain due to excessive effort during the sit-and-reach test include muscle strain, lumbar muscle overuse, fasciitis, joint sprain, and lumbar compression fractures. In daily life, it is recommended to maintain moderate physical activity and exercise, avoid maintaining the same posture for prolonged periods, and change positions regularly to protect spinal health.
Generally, the causes of severe lower back pain resulting from excessive effort during a seated forward bend may include muscle strain, lumbar muscle fatigue, fasciitis, joint sprain, and lumbar compression fractures. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek medical attention promptly for proper diagnosis and treatment. Detailed explanations are as follows:
1. Muscle Strain
Performing a seated forward bend with excessive force or without adequate warm-up may lead to strain in the lower back muscles. This type of injury can cause symptoms such as pain, muscle stiffness, and spasms. Treatment may include medications such as flurbiprofen gel patches, Yunnan Baiyao aerosol, or analgesic plasters, used under medical guidance.
2. Lumbar Muscle Fatigue
Repeated movements during seated forward bends may overwork the lower back muscles, leading to lumbar muscle fatigue. Symptoms may include dull ache, swelling pain, or cramping in the lower back. Medications such as eperisone hydrochloride tablets, Huoxue Zhitong capsules, or nimesulide tablets may be taken under a doctor’s supervision for relief.
3. Fasciitis
Incorrect posture during a seated forward bend may place excessive pressure and stress on the fascial tissues in the lower back, potentially causing fasciitis. Symptoms may include muscle tension, spasms, and numbness of the skin. Treatment options may include indomethacin enteric-coated tablets, chlorzoxazone tablets, or celecoxib capsules, taken as directed by a physician.
4. Joint Sprain
If a person has weak musculature, the joints of the lower back and pelvis may lack sufficient muscular support during a seated forward bend, thereby enduring excessive pressure and torsion, which may result in joint sprain. Symptoms include persistent lower back pain, muscle stiffness, and reflexive pain in the lower limbs. Under medical guidance, medications such as Sanqi Shang Yao capsules, Tenghuang Jiangu tablets, or Shujin Huoxue capsules may be used. Additionally, bed rest and avoidance of strenuous physical activity are recommended.
5. Lumbar Compression Fracture
If the lumbar vertebrae are already compromised, excessive force during a seated forward bend may lead to a lumbar compression fracture. Symptoms of this condition include dull or sharp back pain, spinal deformity, and sensory disturbances. Surgical interventions such as percutaneous vertebroplasty or open reduction and internal fixation may be performed under medical supervision. Absolute bed rest is required following surgery.
In daily life, it is advisable to maintain moderate physical activity and exercise, avoid prolonged periods in the same posture, and change positions regularly to protect spinal health.
