Lumbar and Cervical Sprains and Strains
The spine is a long column of vertebral bones that are supported and connected by ligaments and muscles. When a part of the spine becomes damaged (i.e., twisting, lifting, injury), a cervical, thoracic or lumbar sprain/strain can occur, usually causing localized pain and spasm.
These symptoms usually resolve spontaneously in two to three weeks; however, in more severe cases the symptoms can last for an extensive period of time. If the symptoms do not resolve quickly, prescription medications, therapy and corticosteroid injections may prove beneficial.