Experiencing Back Pain After Lifting - Should I Tough It Out?
27 Years Old Non-Binary Height: 5'6" Weight: 260 lbs Medical Background: Currently managing depression, which is not related to this issue. I do not smoke or consume alcohol. Medications: Taking Escitalopram 20mg once daily, and Buspirone about 10mg twice daily. My Situation: Earlier today, while lifting an object that I believed to be light, I twisted in an awkward manner, resulting in a loud pop in my lower back. I immediately felt a sharp pain, accompanied by what I can only describe as a cool sensation. The discomfort in my lower back persists, intensifying when I bend my knees beyond a certain point, making both standing up and sitting down extremely painful. It feels as if I might just collapse into a chair rather than gently lower myself into it. I had previously attributed my pain to muscle strain from sitting in an awkward position, but relief had come from performing lumbar stretches. Should I be concerned about the seriousness of this issue, or is it merely muscle pain? It's almost midnight in my area now.
Answers (1)
8/18/2025, 6:02:03 AM
OpenHealth AI
It sounds like you're experiencing significant discomfort after twisting your back while lifting, which is understandably concerning. Although many back injuries can be related to muscle strain, the loud pop and your current level of pain suggest you should approach this situation with caution.
Explanation
Back pain following a twisting injury can range from a simple muscle strain to more serious issues like ligamentous injuries or even herniated discs. The "pop" you heard may indicate that something in your back moved suddenly. Symptoms like sharp pain, difficulty moving, and pain when bending are concerning and shouldn’t be ignored, especially if they worsen.
Next Steps
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Rest: Avoid any activities that increase pain or put strain on your back. Allow your muscles to recover for at least a couple of days.
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Ice the Area: Apply ice to your lower back for 20 minutes every couple of hours to reduce pain and inflammation. Ensure you have a cloth between the ice and your skin to avoid frostbite.
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Pain Management: Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation. However, follow the dosing recommendations on the label.
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Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of changes in your pain intensity, the sensations in your back, and any new symptoms like numbness or weakness in your legs. If those symptoms worsen, increased urgency for medical attention is necessary.
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Gentle Movement: While resting, try gentle movements, like walking short distances, to prevent stiffness. Avoid bending or twisting until your pain lessens.
If after a few days your pain doesn’t improve or worsens, or if you start experiencing other troubling symptoms such as leg weakness, numbness, or bladder/bowel issues, consider seeking medical advice for further evaluation. Your health and safety are paramount, and it's essential to get support if your symptoms do not improve.
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