Low Back Contusion (Bruise) Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
A low back contusion (bruise) or lumbar bruise occurs as a result of a direct blow or impact to the lower back. This type of soft tissue trauma may occur as a result of a fall or collision. Low back contusions are common injuries. While low back bruises may cause significant localized back pain, they always get better with conservative care.
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A low back contusion (bruise) or lumbar bruise 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.
What causes Low Back Contusion (Bruise)?
Low back contusions occur as a result of a back impact injury from a direct blow or collision.
Low back bruises are most common in these sports:
- Football
- Hockey
- Rugby
- Gymnastics
Symptoms
Low back contusions often cause localized back pain in the lower back.
Other symptoms of a low back contusion (bruise) 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
When to see a doctor
If you experience symptoms of a low back contusion (bruise) 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 lumbar bruise or 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.
Non-operative treatment
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, should be performed after the initial swelling and pain have resolved
Try these exercises to help address your condition:
Below is a PDF of the Exercise Program
Surgical Treatment
There is never a need for surgical treatment of a low back bruise or low back contusion.
Recovery
Usually, the recovery from a low back contusion (bruise) or lumbar bruise 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.
Dr. Jay Kimmel is a board-certified orthopedic surgeon specializing in sports medicine, arthroscopic surgery, and shoulder and knee disorders. He completed his orthopedic training at New York-Presbyterian/Columbia University Medical Center and a Sports Medicine Fellowship at Temple University.
Dr. Kimmel previously served as the Director of the Connecticut Sports Medicine Institute at Saint Francis Hospital and has held faculty appointments as Clinical Assistant Professor in the Departments of Orthopedics and Family Medicine at the University of Connecticut. He has extensive experience caring for athletes as a team physician for high school and collegiate programs and continues to teach in the athletic training departments at Westfield State University and Springfield College.
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/MonthFrequently Asked Questions
How do I know if I have a low back contusion or something more serious like a fracture?
While a low back contusion typically presents with localized pain, bruising, and tenderness, without nerve symptoms, more serious injuries like fractures may include severe pain, inability to move, or pain that radiates down the legs. If you’re unsure or experiencing intense or unusual symptoms, consult a doctor for imaging tests like X-rays or MRIs to rule out other injuries.
How long does it typically take to recover from a low back contusion?
Most cases of low back contusion (bruise) heal within a week with conservative care. If localized back pain persists beyond 7–10 days, follow-up with a healthcare provider is recommended.
When should I be concerned that my back impact injury is not healing properly?
If pain worsens, spreads down the legs, or if new symptoms like tingling or weakness occur, it may suggest a misdiagnosed condition rather than a simple low back bruise.
How long does it take to recover from a low back contusion?
Most people recover from a low back contusion within a week, especially with proper rest and conservative treatment. Some may experience lingering soreness for a bit longer, but full recovery is expected without the need for surgery.