Expert: Dr. Paul Newhart - 4/20/2009

Question

Hello Dr. Newhart!

Maybe you can help me out. I am 5'11 and 130lbs. I am a 39 yr old healthy
female. A few years ago I hurt my back playing around and picking up my
son (who was 8yrs old then...not small). I was diagnosed with a lumbar strain
(only a back xray was taken) and recovered after about a week. A year later I
experienced the same thing, but I think it was triggered by just reaching for
something and bending over at the same time. Again I recovered fully after
about a week. Now about one more year has gone by and again I have hurt
my back. This time I have NO idea what I did. I drove for a long period in my
car.? I sat in an uncomfortable seat at a sporting event.? I can't figure it out.
It is very frustrating!! It actually makes me worried. Could these things cause
a lumbar strain? I don't feel as bad as past experiences, but still I feel like an
old lady. I feel the pain in my lower right back and when I stand I feel
crooked. I feel better today than I felt when it started yesterday. Do you have
any suggestions for me? I walk a few days a week for exercise. I have never
been to a chiropractor.

Thank you,

Debi

Answer
I would suggest checking with a good chiropractor that also focuses on soft tissue injuries.  From what you describe, in addition to possible misalignment, you may have spasm of the Psoas/Iliacus muscles.  When these are injured, they pull your body forwards, and the back muscles pull to keep the balance.  A good chiropractor should be able to address this and get you on a good rehab program fro strengthening.