The low back pain from a sprain or muscle strain is in a broad area of the back and may be on either side, with consequent painful muscle spasms occuring with activity, or at night during sleep. The pain is worsened by activities and bed rest is an absolute necessity for a short period of time - one to three days. The pain is typically limited to five to ten days and does not involve either leg. There is no weakness in the legs. There is marked restriction and painful limitation in range of motion.
Patients are typically bent over and unable to straighten up or maintain a normal posture.
Any particular activity is impossible, including sitting, standing, walking, driving, etc. No diagnostic testing is indicated, except in a case of unremitting sprain or strain which has been present for several weeks and is not improving as expected. At this point, x-rays of the lumbar spine will be needed to rule out underlying spinal injury or disease. If symptoms persit, an MRI is indicated to diagnoses underlying disc injury such as ruptured or degenerated disc, not evident or suspected at the initial examination. Treatment Treatment initially should involve nosteroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as Nuprin, Motrin, Voltaren, Naprosyn, Tolectin, Lodine, Dolobid, Clinoril, or Feldene.