Most people experience back discomfort at some point, but not all back pain has the same cause. Sometimes the problem is a strained muscle after lifting something heavy or trying a new workout. Other times, discomfort may be related to the spine itself. Knowing the difference can help you better understand what your body is telling you and when it may be time to seek professional care.
Although muscle strains and spinal issues can feel similar, there are a few important differences to keep in mind.
When It’s a Muscle Strain
A muscle strain happens when muscle fibers are stretched beyond their normal limits. This can occur while lifting, twisting, reaching awkwardly, or even after spending a weekend working in the yard. In many cases, discomfort begins shortly after the activity that caused it.
A strained muscle usually feels sore, tender, or tight, which may get worse with some movements. As the muscle recovers, the discomfort typically improves over the course of several days or weeks.
Even after the muscles begin to heal, though, it’s common for people to change the way they move to avoid discomfort, which eventually places stress on other muscles and joints.
When the Spine May Be Involved
Not all back pain comes from the muscles. The spine can also be the problem if joints aren’t moving how they should or there is additional stress.
If pain is coming from the spine, it likely doesn’t have a clear cause or movement that starts the pain. Actually, it often worsens after sitting or resting or when you wake up in the morning.
A Billings chiropractor like Dr. Thomas Keogh will evaluate how the spine is moving and if restricted joints and imbalances are a part of your discomfort. This means looking beyond what area hurts and understanding how the whole body is functioning. It’s common for someone with what feels like a muscle problem to actually have an issue related to restricted spinal motion or other spinal concerns.
Supporting Healthy Movement
Wherever your discomfort begins – the muscle or the spine – healthy movement is an important part of recovering. That means staying active as much as possible and maintaining good posture. Avoiding long periods in one position also helps support normal function. Dr. Keogh always works with you on the everyday habits that matter, like lifting properly and stretching regularly, along with taking care of your spine.
Regular chiropractic adjustments are key here. These adjustments are made to improve your joint motion and spinal alignment so your body can move more efficiently. A working spine means surrounding muscles don’t have to work as hard, and your body has better overall balance.
At Bare Chiropractic, we’re committed to helping you understand the source of your discomfort and supporting your long-term spinal health. Dr. Thomas Keogh and our entire team at our Billings chiropractic office work together to make sure you can move forward with comfort and confidence, but the first step is scheduling your first visit!
Sources
Noonan, T.J., Garrett, Jr., W.E. “Muscle strain injury: diagnosis and treatment.” Journal of the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons. 1999 Jul-Aug; 7 (4): 262-9.
