Back

A muscle fiber tear in the back occurs far more rarely than for example a muscle fiber tear in the thigh or calf. Nevertheless, a torn muscle fiber in the back can be very painful for the person concerned. It is often everyday movements, such as lifting too heavy weights or rotating the upper body too quickly, that promote the tearing of muscle fibers in the back.

Depending on the type and extent of the rupture, it is possible that the affected person feels little or no pain or is severely restricted in their freedom of movement by the injury. The pain is also felt as pulling and stabbing and is often confused with lumbago, especially in the lumbar region. If the affected person goes to the doctor, he or she can clearly identify a torn muscle fiber with the help of an ultrasound examination and by hearing the course of the accident and prescribing appropriate pain-relieving medication.

As usual, patients must follow the PECH rule and take care of their back. As a rule, they are then able to resume full physical activity after 3-6 weeks. In rare cases, more severe forms or muscle ruptures may require an operation in which the injured fibers are sewn back together again.

Therapy

Basically, the golden rule for any type of muscle fiber rupture is: act quickly.The affected person should immediately stop the sport or movement and spare the affected body part. The PECH rule, rest, ice, compression, elevation is the standard therapy in the first days after the injury. The damaged muscle should be spared in order to heal again.

Patients can take painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs to relieve the pain. After the 3-5 day rest phase, however, it is important that the patient becomes mobile again so that the muscles remain flexible and strong. Movement within the pain threshold is allowed, but sports should be avoided.

If a doctor has been consulted, he or she may prescribe physiotherapy, in which the patients receive support in the healing process through massages and movement therapy. If the healing process is well advanced, strengthening and stretching exercises can be started to bring the muscle back to its full capacity. In most cases, a torn muscle fibre is an injury without complications which heals without further problems if the patient keeps to the rehabilitation period and does not strain the muscle too early. The following articles may also be of interest to you:

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