The lumbosacral area is between the bottom of the ribcage and the top of the buttocks muscles. You can strain these muscles by stretching them too far, causing tiny tears in the tissue, Known as a Lumbosacral strain.

Doctors may recommend a day or two of rest, cold/heat therapy, and medications to treat a Lumbosacral strain.

Explain the anatomy of a lumbosacral strain?

The lumbar spine consists of a combination of strong vertebrae: multiple bony elements linked by joint capsules; flexible ligaments/tendons; large muscles; highly sensitive nerves. However, It is designed to be incredibly strong. Also, At the same time, it is highly flexible, providing for mobility in many different planes including flexion, extension, side bending, and rotation.

What does a lumbar sprain feel like?

Swelling, slight redness or skin warmth in the painful area are the most common symptoms of a lumbosacral strain. However, Common symptoms of strains 

• Broad, aching pain across the lower back.
• You may also have trouble bending your back.
• Difficulty while standing up completely straight.
• Occasional muscle spasm (especially when moving around or while sleeping).
• Loss of Sensation in your Limbs/Dead Leg.

Describe common causes of a lumbosacral strain:

Lumbar muscle strains and sprains are the most common causes of low back pain. Muscle strains and sprains are common in the lower back because it supports the weight of the upper body and is involved in moving, twisting, and bending.

However, Lumbar muscle strain is caused when muscle fibers are abnormally stretched or torn. It is mostly caused when ligaments (the tough bands of tissue that hold bones together) are torn from their attachments. Both of these can result from a sudden injury or from gradual overuse. 

List some of the Risk Factors:

Some of the most common Lumbosacral strain includes the following:

• Age.
• Lack of exercise.
• Excess weight. Excess body weight puts extra stress on your back.
• Diseases.
• Improper lifting.
• Psychological conditions.
• Smoking.

How can we fix a Lumbosacral strain?

There are several ways to treat a strain which includes:

1. Cold Therapy:

In the acute phase of a lumbar strain Cold therapy should be applied (for a short period up to 48 h)to the affected area to limit the localized tissue inflammation and edema.

1. Medication:

NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are the most common medicines used. Medicines may be prescribed or bought over the counter. They may be given to put on the skin a gel, cream, or patch.

1. Stretching:

Mild stretching exercises along with limited activity.

• Single and double knee to chest Lie down on your back with your knees bent and your heels on the floor. Pull your knee or knees as close as you can to your chest, and hold the pose for 10 seconds. Repeat this 3 to 5 times. 
• Backstretch Lie on your back, hands above your head. Bend your knees and, keeping your feet on the floor, roll your knees to one side, slowly. Stay at one side for 10 seconds, repeat 3 to 5 times.

• Press up Begin by laying flat on the ground (face down). When doing this exercise it is important to keep the hips and legs relaxed and in contact with the floor. Hold until you need to inhale, then move down, lay flat on the ground to rest, and repeat ten times.

• Kneeling lunge.
• Stretching piriformis.

However, the Progression of strengthening exercises should begin once the pain and spasm are under control. The muscles requiring the most emphasis are the abdominals, especially the obliques, the trunk extensors, and the gluteals.

Also, Training the core stability is an important part of the treatment of a lumbar strain and for the further prevention of low back pain. 

What can we do to diagnose a lumbosacral strain?

In addition to a complete medical history and physical exam, diagnostic procedures for low back pain may include the following. 

• X-ray. A diagnostic test that produces images of internal tissues, bones, and organs onto film.
• Computed tomography scan (also called a CT or CAT scan). This is an imaging test that uses X-rays and a computer to make detailed images of the body. A CT scan shows details of the bones, muscles, fat, and organs. A CT scan shows detailed images of bones, muscles, fat, and organs.
• Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radio frequencies, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body.
• Electromyogram (EMG). A test to evaluate nerve and muscle function.

Can you Prevent it?

Common preventions of a Lumbosacral strain include:

• Proper posture lessens stress to the back.
• A healthy body needs regular exercise! Strong abdominal muscles help support the spine.
• Stop smoking! Nicotine restricts the blood flow needed to deliver oxygen and nourishment to the spine.
• Healthy eating habits help keep body weight moderate to reduce excessive stress to the spine.

However, Learn how to safely lift and carry items, apply ergonomic principles by selecting spine-friendly chairs, always wear a seat belt when traveling, and wear protective equipment during sports so the fun can be safe and injury-free.