Back Strains vs. Sprains — What’s the Difference?
This content was medically reviewed by Baher S. Yanni, MD, on January 21st, 2021.
Your back sees a lot of action on any given day. Whether you’re bending to pick something up, lifting your kids or stretching to reach for something on a high shelf, any one of these actions can lead to a sudden ache in your back. Your back is an intricate structure of bones, muscles, nerves and supporting tissue that bears the load of your body’s weight all day long. It makes sense that lower back injuries, such as strains and sprains, are one misstep away.
Yet, what’s the difference between these highly common spinal injuries?
The Difference Between Back Strains and Sprains
Whether you have a back strain or a sprain, the result is the same — your back hurts. It may be difficult to tell the difference, but it all comes down to the supporting muscles and tissue that support your spine and keep your back tough:
- Strain: A strain is an injury to either the muscle or tendon. Tendons are fibrous bands of tissue that keep muscle attached to the bone.
- Sprain: Sprains occur when a ligament becomes torn or stretched. Ligaments are fibrous bands of tissue that connect bones to joints.
Common Causes of Back Strains and Sprains
When your lower back becomes strained or sprained, the muscles and tissues swell. This inflammation is what causes pain and may lead to the spasms we refer to as strains or sprains.
Strains are often caused by twisting or pulling a muscle or tendon, something you could experience lifting a heavy box or overuse as you perform the same repetitive back movements over the years. Sprains often occur after a fall or due to a sudden twist or blow that forces a joint from its normal position.
Some factors can put your back at greater risk of a strain or sprain, such as:
- Playing sports that involve pushing or pulling.
- Excessive curving of the lower back.
- Being overweight.
- Weak back or abdominal muscles.
- Tight hamstrings.
Symptoms of Back Strains and Sprains
So, what does a back strain or sprain feel like? These injuries often cause a broad, aching pain across the lower back, sometimes limited to one side. Other symptoms could include:
- Trouble bending your back.
- Difficulty standing completely straight.
- Occasional back spasms or muscle cramping, whether moving or at rest.
- Pain that worsens when you move.
- Low back pain that radiates to the buttocks, but not the legs.
- Stiffness that restricts your range of motion.
- A hard, painful knot in your back muscle.
- Occasionally, a pop or tear at the time of injury.
At-Home Options for Back Sprain and Strain Relief
Injuries like sprains or strains usually heal on their own within six weeks. In the meantime, here are a few ways to bring relief to your aching back:
- Avoid bed rest, as it can weaken muscles and slow recovery.
- Use over the counter pain relievers, such as NSAIDs.
- Try a combination of cold and heat to ease back pain for 20 minutes at a time.
- Go for a massage.
- Avoid stressful situations that may cause muscle tension.
Contact Spine INA Today
If you’ve experienced a severe back injury or your back pain remains after six weeks of home care, then it’s time to schedule your appointment at Spine INA. We will develop an individualized treatment plan to relieve your pain so that you can revive your life. Contact us today to set up an appointment.
