Muscle Strain (pull) in the back Stage 1

It is likely the back pain you are suffering from is due to a muscle strain.

The muscles running down the back either side of the spine can be susceptible to spasm and strain, leading to back pain running.

Below you will find advice as to how to deal with this injury – by becoming a member, you can
also access all our video advice.

Remember to have this confirmed by your sports doctor, or sports therapist.

You can diagnose other running injury’s here.

Previous step

It is vitally important that treatment for a pulled muscle in the back starts immediately following injury.
The most important phase for treatment is the first 48 hours post-injury.
Stop running (you probably won’t be able to anyway).
Perform the ‘IMPORTANT’ video advice below.
Perform the ‘ESSENTIAL CHECKS’ videos below, which assess if you need orthotics, how stable your hip muscles are (if they are not, then click here), if there is a difference in your leg lengths, whether you need new shoes, if your core stability is strong enough (if it isn’t, then click here).
Ensure you check you are running with good form (click here)
Before following the rehabilitation advice, read our treatment precautions.
Also, check our Low back warning signs page.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen help reduce the pain and inflammation.
Acupuncture can be helpful at any stage of the injury.
Perform the RICE procedure for 20 minutes every two hours for the first 48 hours (see videos below).
Keeping the injury compressed with special sports taping when not icing will help it to heal (see videos below). Or wear a low back support in the initial stages (visit our online shop for more information).
After 48 hours you can go on to stage 2 of rehabilitation.

If care is not taken with correct rehabilitation lasting stiffness and weakness can occur in the back, as well as reoccurence of the injury itself.

Running Injury Oracle