One common type of back injury that workers may sustain on the job is a lumbar strain. Although for some it takes just a few days to achieve lower back pain relief, for others the recovery can be much longer and may take weeks or months.
The doctor will usually try conservative forms of treatment first. However, the treatment plan may also depend on the severity and extent of the injury, your age and health, tolerance for medications or procedures, and other relevant factors.
Mild Treatments for a Lumbar Strain
Initially, you may be instructed to rest and avoid any activities that would prevent healing or aggravate the condition. The doctor may prescribe muscle relaxants or medication to reduce inflammation and relieve pain.
Icepacks or a cold compress is sometimes applied to the lower back. Heat therapy might follow. As the injury begins to heal, special exercises may be necessary to stretch and strengthen the muscles for further lower back pain relief and to avoid reinjury.
Major Treatments for a Lumbar Strain
When mild treatment doesn’t help, the doctor may prescribe spinal injections. This usually relieves pain quickly but it’s not a long-term solution. Rehabilitation could become necessary. And in rare cases, it may necessitate surgery if the injury is severe.
Of course, one of the risks with a serious injury is that you are unable to return to work. Or at least may not be able to perform the same job duties. Fortunately, if the injury is job-related, workers’ comp offers lumbar strain patients compensation to cover these medical expenses, as well as partial lost wages while unable to work or while performing light duty work at a lower pay.
Walker, Billingsley & Bair provides legal assistance to Des Moines workers who are severely hurt or struggling to recover adequate compensation for their injury. Set up an appointment with us today: (888) 435-9886.