SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS

Sprains and strains vary in severity. The signs and symptoms depend on the severity of the injury. A sprain/strain may involve one or more of the following signs and symptoms:

• Localized pain
• Pain stiffness
• Pain with movement or loading of a spinal segment
• Spinal segment dysfunction
• Reactive muscle /cramping or spasm
• Hypermobility or instability of the involved spinal segment(s)
• Muscle retraction and weakness associated with a tear

CAUSES

The primary cause of a sprain/strain is overstretching and/or tearing of tissue. This results in the development of inflammation and may result in some bleeding in and around the compromised tissues. During the recovery process replacement tissue may include scar and tissue which is less flexible or functional than original tissues.

RISK FACTORS

Factors contributing to the development of a neck or back sprain and/or strain include:

• Deconditioning. Weak muscles are less able to protect the spine from injury.Poor conditioning of core muscles increase the risk for sprain/strain injury of the low back.
• Improper lifting technique. Improper or inefficient lifting technique can lead to overstretching of ligaments and overwork of muscles.
• Fatigue. Lack of muscular endurance or tired muscles are less likely to provide adequate spinal support during lifting tasks and other activities.
• Spinal degeneration. Degenerative disc changes and/or degeneration of spinal joints contribute to abnormal movement and/or stiffness of the spinal segment. The involved spinal segment is less capable of adapting to and withstanding external forces without injury.