Should you stretch a pulled back muscle?

Posted on by Muna Meyer

Should you stretch a pulled back muscle?

Stretch. According to Kojo Hamilton, MD, as you return to activity, gentle stretching exercises may improve tissue healing by bringing more blood flow to the injured area. Applying heat to the area prior to stretching may also be beneficial.

How long can it take for a pulled back muscle to heal?

Compared to many other kinds of back injuries, a pulled muscle is usually straightforward to diagnose and easy to treat, and symptoms usually resolve within 4 to 6 weeks. Some severe muscle injuries, such as a complete muscle tear, can take months to heal.

What does a pulled muscle in back feel like?

Symptoms of a Pulled Back Muscle If you have pulled a muscle in your back, you will probably feel it as a sudden sharp pain when you lift, bend, or twist. The pain can range from mildly irritating to intense and debilitating depending on how badly the muscle is strained.

What does a pulled back muscle feel like?

Symptoms to expect from a pulled lower back muscle—or any type of lower back strain—typically include: Dull, achy low back pain. Strained muscles usually feel sore, tight, or achy. Pain that feels hot, tingling, or electric is more likely caused by an irritated nerve root, not a pulled muscle.

Is it better to rest or exercise a pulled muscle?

“The most important treatment for acute muscle strain is rest,” he explains. “Continuing to stress a pulled muscle could result in further damage to muscle and a much longer healing time.

Is heat or ice better for a pulled back muscle?

When you have back pain from exercise or exertion, use cold therapy immediately after the activity to reduce tissue damage, inflammation, and pain. After a 24-hour period, use heat therapy to encourage tissue healing.

How do I know if I have a pulled muscle in my back?

Common Pulled Back Muscle Symptoms

  1. Local swelling.
  2. Muscle spasms.
  3. Tenderness when touched.
  4. Cramping.
  5. Intense or dull pain.
  6. Pain with specific movements.
  7. Tightness or stiffness in the muscles.
  8. Pain relief in resting positions.

How do I get my back to stop hurting?

The Basics: Overview

  1. Do back-strengthening and stretching exercises at least 2 days a week.
  2. Stand and sit up straight.
  3. Avoid heavy lifting. If you do lift something heavy, bend your knees and keep your back straight.
  4. Get active and eat healthy. Being overweight can strain your back.