Doctors typically initiate the diagnostic process for suspected lumbar strain with a comprehensive patient history, inquiring about the onset of pain (often sudden, following a specific activity like lifting or twisting), its character (dull ache, sharp spasm), location (paraspinal region), and aggravating or alleviating factors. Crucially, the history aims to identify 'red flags' – symptoms like radiating pain, numbness, weakness, bowel/bladder changes, fever, or unexplained weight loss – which could indicate more serious underlying conditions requiring further investigation. Following this, a thorough physical examination is performed, including observing posture and gait, palpating the lumbar paraspinal muscles for tenderness and spasm, and assessing the range of motion of the spine (which is typically limited and painful). A neurological examination, checking strength, sensation, and reflexes in the lower extremities, is paramount; in simple lumbar strain, these findings should be normal, effectively ruling out nerve compression or other neuropathies. Click - Lumbar Strain Doctors NJ