Low Back Contusion (Bruise) Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

A low back bruise or contusion occurs as a result of a direct blow or impact to the lower back . This type of injury  may occur as a result of a fall or collision. Low back contusions are common injuries. While low back bruises may cause significant pain, they always get better with conservative care.

Low back contusions  occur as a result of a direct blow or collision.

Low back bruises are most common in these sports:

• Football
• Hockey
• Rugby
• Gymnastics

Low back contusions often cause pain localized to the lower back.

Other symptoms of a low back contusion are :

• bruising or swelling
• Tenderness
• No radiation of the pain down the legs
• No numbness or tingling in the legs
• No weakness in the legs

If you experience symptoms of a low back contusion  that don’t resolve after a week or prevent you from doing your normal activities, you should see your doctor. You should also seek medical treatment if you experience radiating leg pain, as this symptom may suggest nerve damage.

Usually, a diagnosis can be made by taking a medical history and conducting a physical examination. Your doctor will want to examine your back and look for signs of a contusion, such as swelling and tenderness in the lower back area. An x-ray and/or MRI may be ordered to rule out other causes of your symptoms.

Treatment of low back contusions always  involves non-surgical measures.

Conservative treatments include:

• Rest from activities and sports that place strain on the back
• Ice to reduce swelling
• Over the counter medications if necessary to relieve pain
• Physical therapy such as stretching  and strengthening exercises after the initial swelling and pain resolves

Try these exercises to help address your condition:

Below is a PDF of the Exercise Program

Lumbar Strain

There is never a need for surgical treatment of a low back bruise or contusion

Usually the recovery from a low back bruise or contusion is quite quick. Often the pain resolves in less than a week.   Your doctor will advise you on a plan to get you back to a full recovery and return to activities including sports.