How long does this injury take to heal?

mpm · 08-09-2006, 08:51 PM

I was doing squats for the first time in a while last Friday, and I tweaked a muscle or disc in my back. Its a little to the right of my spine and in the middle to lower part of my back.

It didnt hurt too much at the time. I've been bothered by it slightly the past few days. It feels like I pulled something. It's a little tight with a slight dull pain when I bend over.

How long does something like this usually take to heal on average?

Can I continue working out or should I rest until its fully healed?

Lost Dog · 08-09-2006, 08:57 PM

There's sort of a large gap between tweaking a muscle or tweaking a disc.

"I have a headache. It's either an aneurysm or a hangover. Should I take aspirin?"

Seriously, though. Let's hope it's just a strain, but if you even think it's a disc problem, don't workout.

GqArtguy · 08-09-2006, 09:00 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lost_Dog

Seriously, though. Let's hope it's just a strain, but if you even think it's a disc problem, don't workout.

And go to a chiro.

mpm · 08-09-2006, 09:02 PM

I really think its mostly likely a strained muscle. It doesnt bother me that much. Just whenever I bend over it feels like there is tightness.

I just was curious if I am good to workout or if I should hold off. I havent worked out since Friday and really want to get into the gym.

JoshDunn · 08-09-2006, 09:14 PM

Seek professional advice. Someone online can't give you personal advice so go to a physio.

djhaycock · 08-09-2006, 09:14 PM

Might want to even checkout a physical therapist. Discs and back injuries are no joke, they can only get worse if not treated or taken care of properly.

Inspired · 08-10-2006, 07:27 AM

Ummm ya... Wait it out a few days if the pain is tolerable, see if the pain decreases after a few days, if not then take the above advice..

Keith Scott · 08-10-2006, 08:03 AM

Have you done anything about it in the meantime? Ice, rest?

Get some ice on there a few times a day and rest it. Give it a week and see how it feels. Go from there

Cynic · 08-10-2006, 10:39 AM

Go to a doctor and get it diagnose. I did the same thing last year, but much worse. He/she will be able to determine if it's a spinal injury or muscular.

You'll take approx 1.5 months off, than get a PT who knows his/her shit and get your form corrected. Lower the weight and do them right! If you have to, use an empty bar.

If it's muscular, you can apply heat to help lossen the muscle and stretch it.

Lisa~ · 08-10-2006, 10:55 AM

Go to a reputable chiropractor. These are the guys that know backs best.

Inspired · 08-10-2006, 03:24 PM

A chiropractor left my teachers father crippled for life. I dunno, it might be something to think about..

Cynic · 08-10-2006, 05:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Lisa~

Go to a reputable chiropractor. These are the guys that know backs best.

I'd rather have a reputable sports medicine doctor over a chiropractor.

mpm · 08-10-2006, 07:28 PM

Well the good news is the pain is almost gone. It feels about 95% or so back to normal. In fact, I barely even notice it now (if at all at times) unless I'm being conscious of it.

I'm going to try working out tonight and see how it goes. I will most likely take it easy just to make sure everything is ok.

Thanks for all the help. It's much appreciated.

jvernacchio · 08-10-2006, 07:28 PM

Hey man back injuries are no joke trust me. Go see your doctor if you got decent medical or can afford it. Lay off the heavy lifting if you have to hit the gym.

mpm · 08-10-2006, 07:45 PM

I'm a college student so the only thing I have is the quack shack. Half the time I go in there, I end up knowing more about my problems and solutions to those problems than they do.

All they really tell me is what is not wrong with me.

I really feel like I am fine. I'm going to try it tonight, and if it bothers me or if I feel it flare up again in the next day or so I will go see a doc. I had a shoulder injury a few years back so I know not to ignore the problem if there is one.

Thanks for all the concern.