How to Effectively Treat Lumbar Muscle Strain
May 16, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Xu Ge
Introduction
- Get adequate rest and maintain proper posture. When lying in bed, avoid using a high pillow, as this prevents the lumbar spine from achieving true rest—only the limbs are rested.
- Use medications appropriately. Pharmacological intervention is indicated when symptoms significantly impair daily life and work, particularly when sleep is affected.
- Physical therapy. For pain caused by lumbar muscle strain, patients may seek standard treatments—such as massage—at a reputable hospital.
There are three primary treatment approaches for lumbar muscle strain.
1. Appropriate rest and attention to posture: Pain serves as the body’s natural feedback mechanism, signaling that rest is needed—do not persist with work or other activities while experiencing pain. High-quality sofas and chairs support the natural lordotic (forward) curvature of the lumbar spine. The most detrimental sitting posture is forward flexion at approximately 70°: in supine position, lumbar spinal load is 1.0 times body weight; in upright standing, it increases to 1.5 times; and in 70° forward flexion, it rises sharply to 2.5 times. When lying down, avoid using excessively high pillows, which prevent true rest for the lumbar spine and only allow the limbs to rest.
2. Moderate pharmacological therapy: When symptoms significantly impair daily life and work—especially sleep—medication may be warranted. Examples include anti-inflammatory analgesics to alleviate pain and muscle relaxants to relieve muscular tension.
3. Physical therapy: During episodes of lumbar muscle strain–related pain, patients may seek conventional treatments—such as massage—at reputable medical institutions. These interventions can effectively relieve pain, though their effects are typically temporary. When selecting a rehabilitation specialist or massage clinic, ensure the facility is licensed and staffed by qualified professionals.
