Lower back pain and chronic discomfort aren’t easy to diagnose, and there can be many causes. Two of the most common are pulled muscles and pinched nerves. Each is a unique condition, but they are luckily both highly treatable with chiropractic and self-care. Learn more about the differences between these issues to ensure timely treatment and prevention.

Pulled Muscles

A pulled or strained muscle occurs when tight muscles are over-exerted. This injury may contribute to pinched nerve pain while also creating broad muscle pain throughout the injury site. Pulled muscles can develop from poor fitness and posture, sleeping in uncomfortable positions, and obesity.

A key indicator of a pulled muscle is the area around the muscle may be sensitive to touch, and it may bruise or swell. This pain can be treated with rest, cold or hot compresses, anti-inflammatory medications, and massage and compression therapy. To prevent this injury, stretch before sports and other activities, and add strength training to your fitness regimen.

Pinched Nerves

A pinched nerve develops when injuries to tendons, muscles, cartilage, and other tissues place constant pressure on the nerve. It can lead to pain, numbness, tingling sensations, and muscle weakness. Responses from herniated discs in the spine or carpel tunnel syndrome in the wrist are common examples.

Pinched nerves can develop for several reasons, though injuries are most common. When muscles and joints are tense, they become more susceptible to injury during sports and other intense activities. Repetitive motions can also stress injury sites, and carrying extra pounds may add additional compression to nerves.

Pinched nerves are often treated with rest and light physical therapy to alleviate pressure around the nerve, and anti-inflammatory drugs to help manage pain. In severe cases, a doctor may recommend surgery to decrease the pressure around the nerve.

If you have rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, or obesity-related health conditions, or have had previous muscle injuries, seeing a chiropractor is an important part of prevention. You should also stretch thoroughly before strenuous activities and focus on building lean muscle in your core.

Whether you think you’re dealing with a pinched nerve or a pulled muscle, contact Augustine Chiropractic in Wesley Chapel, FL, for an official diagnosis. Led by Dr. Brian Augustine, this practice treats many conditions, including sciatica, scoliosis, back pain, and injuries from auto accidents. Visit their website to explore their full scope of services, and call (813) 994-6008 to schedule an exam.