Back strain is one of the most common problems facing people of all ages, and it can appear suddenly as a result of incorrect movement. It is a health problem that hinders a person’s daily movement and affects his life, whether this is the result of sudden physical effort or a wrong sitting position. The pain may be annoying or worrying. In the following lines with Al Mousa Specialist Hospital, we will explain the various details about back lift.

What is a back lift and why do some people resort to it?

Back strain is a condition that occurs when muscles stretch or contract excessively, which leads to sudden or persistent pain in the lower or middle back area. Back strain can be the result of incorrect movement, carrying heavy weights, or even sitting for long periods in an incorrect manner.

The question here is why some people resort to a back lift in its therapeutic sense. This is of course due to their desire for one of the following:

• Strengthening the back muscles through exercises that tighten the muscles and increase their flexibility.
• Improving posture, as back stretching exercises help improve body posture and stand or sit straight.
• To relieve chronic back pain, stretching and stretching exercises reduce muscle tension and improve blood flow.
• Preventing injuries. Stretching the back on a regular basis helps support the spine and protect it from sudden injuries.

Causes of back strain

There are a group of the most prominent causes of back strain, and these causes can be classified into a number of categories, including structural causes, inflammatory conditions, medical conditions, and other causes, and we explain the details below:

Structural causes

• Muscle or ligament strain, which is one of the most common causes of back pain. Strain can occur as a result of lifting objects in the wrong way or with a sudden movement, or as a result of overuse of the back muscles or as a result of poor posture.
• Herniated disc, where the discs between the vertebrae of the spine act as cushions when a disc ruptures or bulges, can put pressure on nerves and cause severe pain.
• Arthritis. Osteoarthritis can affect the lower back and in some cases can lead to التهاب المفاصل In the spine, the space around the spinal cord becomes narrow, which is known as spinal stenosis.
• Osteoporosis: Painful fractures can develop in the vertebrae of the spine if the bones are porous and brittle.
• The abnormal curvature of the spine, known as scoliosis, can in severe cases cause back pain.
• Degenerative disc disease: Degeneration of the discs between the vertebrae can cause pain in the lower back, which can extend to the buttocks and thighs.
• Spondylolisthesis occurs when one of the vertebrae of the spine slides forward over the vertebra below it.
• Spinal stenosis, which is a narrowing of the spaces in the spine, which puts pressure on the spinal cord and nerves.

Inflammatory conditions

• Ankylosing spondylitis, which is an inflammatory disease that causes the fusion of some of the bones of the spine.
• Osteitis, an infection of the bones.
• Sacroiliac arthritis, which is an inflammation of the joints between the lower spine and the pelvis.

Other medical conditions

There are some other medical conditions that can cause a back strain, such as:

• Spinal cord tumors or tumors that have spread to the spine.
• Some types of infections.
• Kidney stones.
• Endometriosis.
• Fibromyalgia.
• Obesity and overweight.
• Pregnancy and hormonal changes in women.
• Sciatica, in which pain radiates along the path of the sciatic nerve extending from the lower back through the buttocks and down each leg.

There are also a number of other factors that cause back strain, which are poor posture, lack of exercise, smoking, psychological stress and anxiety, and lifting heavy objects incorrectly.

Back stretching methods

There are a number of back stretching methods that can be used to strengthen muscles or prevent pain. These methods are as follows:

Stretching exercises

• Back extension exercise, in which you lie on your stomach while raising the upper body with your hands.
• Knee to chest exercise, in which you lie on your back and pull the knee towards your chest and alternate.
• Child exercise, which is a relaxing yoga exercise to stretch the lower back muscles.

Strengthening exercises

• Bridge exercise, in which you lie on your back and raise your pelvis up to strengthen your lower back muscles.
• Plank, which strengthens the back and abdominal muscles and improves stability.
• Superman exercise, in which the arms and legs are raised while lying on the stomach to strengthen the back.

Yoga or Pilates

These are integrated exercises that enhance the flexibility and strength of the back and help relax the muscles. There are also some helpful tools for tightening the back, including an exercise ball and massage rollers that are useful in relieving muscle tension and tightening the muscles effectively.

Book your consultation now at Orthopedic center At Al Mousa Specialist Hospital.

Tips to maintain the results of a back lift for a long time

It is important, in order to maintain the results of a back lift for a long time, to continue performing stretching and strengthening exercises regularly, even after the condition improves, in order to maintain the flexibility and strength of the back muscles. Also, always sit and walk with a straight back, avoid bending over or sitting for long periods in the wrong position, and choose a chair that supports the back well when sitting for long periods, especially at work and during study.

Care should be taken to bend the knees and not bend the back when carrying weights, while distributing the weight evenly, and maintain a healthy weight to reduce pressure on the spine and back muscles. Also, use a suitable pillow and mattress to keep the spine straight while sleeping, and practice relaxation techniques such as meditation or deep breathing, as psychological stress causes muscle tension in the back.

Maintain the health of the muscles and intervertebral discs by constantly hydrating them by drinking sufficient amounts of water, and avoiding wearing high heels or uncomfortable shoes that affect the body’s balance and also negatively affect the spine.

Who is most susceptible to back spasms?

Back spasms or back strain can affect anyone, but there are some groups that are more susceptible to it, due to lifestyle or physical condition, and the most prominent of these groups are:

• People who sit for long periods, such as employees working at desks or in front of screens, without sufficient movement breaks.
• The elderly. With age, the back muscles weaken and the risk of cramps increases.
• For those who suffer from obesity, excess weight puts pressure on the muscles and spine, thus increasing the possibility of spasticity.
• Those who engage in intense physical activity, especially those who do adequate warm-up or stretching exercises before exercise, or who use incorrect techniques during exercise.
• النساء الحوامل.
• These are those who suffer from psychological stress, as it causes muscle tension in various areas, including the back.

اسئلة شائعة 

What is the best ointment for muscle tension?

The best ointment for muscle tension is one that contains effective anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving ingredients such as diclofenac, menthol, or camphor. These substances work to relieve swelling, reduce pain, and improve blood flow in the affected area. The most famous of these ointments are Voltaren Gel, Move Cream, and Baycam. They are used directly on the tension site with gentle massage to get the best results. It is best to consult a doctor before use, especially for those who suffer from skin allergies or chronic health conditions.

Does hot water relieve back pain?

Hot water is considered an effective means of relieving back pain. It helps relax tight muscles and enhances blood flow to the affected area, thus accelerating the healing process and relieving the feeling of stiffness or pain. You can also use hot compresses or shower with warm water for about a quarter of an hour to get temporary relief, but it is recommended not to use heat if there is obvious inflammation or swelling, and it is important to consult a doctor if the pain persists.

Does a cold cause back pain?

Cold can cause back pain, especially in those who suffer from pre-existing muscular or joint problems. Low temperatures lead to muscle contraction and stiffness in the joints, which increases the feeling of cramping and pain. Also, sudden exposure to cold air or sleeping in a cold environment without adequate heating leads to muscle tension in the back area. This is why it is important to keep the body warm, especially the lower body, and be careful to avoid direct exposure to cold for long periods.

Al Mousa Specialist Hospital guarantees the best results for you, as it includes a distinguished medical staff with experience and competence, so be sure to book your appointment now for diagnosis and treatment.

المصادر والمراجع:

The Best Topical Pain Relief Products – healthline

Muscle Strains – healthline