Signs and Symptoms
First, there will be pain and limitations on what the person can and can't do, while that pain will be in the place the strain occurred. Commonly, the pain will spread to some of the surrounding muscles. The muscles will be stiff, and the pain will either be sharp or aching. A lot of times, the pain will pull on the muscles, and back spasms can also occur. There also might be some swelling, but it won't be drastic.
Effects
A pulled back muscle won't be devastating, but it can be debilitating. It can render a person motionless, meaning he could be laid up in bed for a few days, or it can just cause an annoying pain, preventing a person from lifting or moving quickly, or, in this case, playing golf.
Prevention/Solution
The main way to prevent a pulled back muscle is to stretch before a round or activity. Since each body type differs, one should find a stretch routine that suits her and do it before playing. Some people might need to wear a back brace while playing golf. If that's the case, consult a physician as to which will be more beneficial. Some ways to relieve a pulled back muscle are massage and heating ointments or therapy, while others might benefit more from using ice packs. You should also consider using some over-the-counter pain reliever to make movement easier. Keep in mind that it can be more than three weeks to cure the pulled muscle.
MIsconceptions
A back brace will not cure all. Sometimes a brace will relieve the pain by taking the weight off the back or the muscle, and that will be helpful. However, the true way to relieve all pain and fix the pull is to refrain from strenuous activity. Unless you are pain free, that should include swinging a golf club, especially if that's what caused the pull in the first place.
Warning
Do not take a back pain or a pulled muscle lightly. It can be a serious injury that could lead to more serious injuries. Back pain has been known to spread to other parts of the body nearby, also causing leg and sometimes arm pain. If the pain continues after taking prevention, consult a doctor.
About The Author
Mike Camunas is a free lance reporter, covering local golf in the Tampa Bay area, from events to golfers hitting hole in ones, to even covering the professional events that hit town. He has been playing golf for about 11 years and has never seen his handicap lower. Perhaps one day. He attended the University of South Florida.
