According to the American Association of Neurological Surgeons (AANS), lumbar sprains are caused when ligaments are torn from their attachments. A similar condition is a lumbar strain, which is caused when muscle fibers are abnormally stretched or torn. Lumbar sprains and strains are the most common causes of lower back pain.
If you have recently been injured in a car accident or other accident, one of our Jonesboro lumbar sprain chiropractors will personally meet with you during your consultation and treatment and coordinate your care. Contact our Jonesboro one-stop auto injury center at (404) 800-3000 to learn more about how we can help at Dominguez Chiropractic.
We Will Help You Regardless of How Your Lumbar Sprain Occurred
Lumbar sprains and strains can result from a sudden injury, such as a car crash or fall. They can also result from gradual overuse, such as from a work injury brought on by continuous movements and twisting. Johns Hopkins Medicine reports that “pushing and pulling sports can also cause lumbar sprains and strains.” These can consist of weightlifting and football or sports that “require you to twist the lower back, such as tennis, golf, baseball, and basketball.”
Risk factors that can increase the likelihood of developing these types of injuries include:
- A weak back
- Forward-tilted pelvis
- Excessive lower back curvature
- Tight hamstrings
Symptoms of Lumbar Sprains and Strains Which You May Suffer From
Patients may experience a variety of symptoms from lumbar sprains, depending on the injury’s location and severity. AANS states that some symptoms of lumbar sprains and strains include:
- Sudden onset of lower back pain
- Muscle spasms in the lower back
- Pain that lasts for 10 to 14 days
- Radiating back pain that extends to the buttocks but not to the legs
- Lack of mobility in the lower back
- Difficulty maintaining normal posture because of pain or stiffness
- A feeling of soreness to the touch in your lower back
The symptoms of lumbar sprain or strain may be confused with other medical conditions. If you are not sure what your medical condition is, seek a professional opinion. If your pain lasts for more than one to two weeks, seek medical attention. AANS reports that you should seek medical attention if you experience severe abdominal pain, unexplained fever, or loss of control of your bowels or bladder in addition to your back pain.
We Can Diagnose and Test for Lumbar Sprain
Lumbar sprain may be diagnosed during a physical exam and initial assessment. However, if your condition has continued for several weeks you may be suffering from a complication. Johns Hopkins states that more specialized tests may be used to diagnose your problem, such as:
- X-ray – An x-ray is a diagnostic test that produces a picture on film of a part of the body—such as bones, internal tissues, and organs. X-rays can also help identify other sources of pain, such as fractures and infections.
- CT scan – This imaging test uses x-ray images to create detailed images of your body, including details of your bones and muscles.
- MRI – An MRI uses large magnets, a computer, and radiofrequencies to create three-dimensional images of your body’s organs and structures, including the spinal cord and nerve roots. It can also detect tumors.
- EMG – This test evaluates nerve and muscle function.
- Radionuclide bone scan – This type of scan uses a minimal amount of radioactive material that is injected into your bloodstream to determine bone and cell activity.
Speak with a team member at (404) 800-3000 about setting up a consultation.
Dominguez Chiropractic Can Treat Your Lumbar Sprains and Strains
During the first phase of treatment of lumbar sprain or strain, the goal is usually to reduce pain and spasms. Some forms of treatment during this phase may include:
- Rest
- Ice packs and/or heat packs
- Compression pressure
- Certain exercises
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medication
Bed rest is often discouraged after the first 24 to 48 hours, because immobility can lead to a loss of muscle strength and can increase pain and discomfort while also delaying recovery. Most people are able to recover from this condition within two weeks. However, if you do not recover, your doctor may recommend physical therapy, the use of spinal injections, and other treatment options.
Your treatment plan will depend on a number of individual factors, including:
- The extent of your injury
- Your symptoms
- Your age
- Your medical history and overall health
- Your treatment objectives
You may also benefit from working with a Jonesboro lumbar sprain chiropractor who can help you with your condition.
What to Expect From Working With Dominguez Chiropractic
Dominguez Chiropractic was established in 2003 by Dr. Barbara Dominguez, who is committed to establishing a comprehensive chiropractic care clinic to help local residents with their chiropractic needs. Since then, we have expanded so that we now have clinics in Decatur, Doraville, Gainesville, Lawrenceville, and Marietta.
When you work with our clinics, you receive the following benefits:
- Same-day appointments with your medical doctor
- A visit from Dr. Barbara Dominguez during your treatment and her expertise to help with a coordinated treatment plan
- A staff of highly qualified medical chiropractors
- A medical doctor who can provide medical evaluations and prescribe medication, if necessary
- A bilingual chiropractor who can provide treatment information in Spanish and English
- Coordinating towing and vehicle repairs if you were involved in a car accident
- Managing your auto insurance claim and providing you with treatment before you begin the insurance or legal process
- Referring you to a personal injury lawyer, if necessary
At Dominguez Chiropractic, our goal is to treat your injuries, relieve your pain, and improve the quality of your life through comprehensive chiropractic care.
Contact Dominguez Chiropractic for Help
If you were injured in an accident or were recently diagnosed with a lumbar sprain, a Jonesboro lumbar sprain chiropractor can help. With full-service options, assistance with your insurance claims, and a commitment to your overall health and recovery, we are your one-stop Jonesboro one-stop auto injury center. Call Dominguez Chiropractor at (404) 800-3000 to get started.
We can discuss our comprehensive line of chiropractic services and how we may be able to help you, based on your personal circumstances and preferences. You do not have to suffer from lumbar pain. We are here to help.