Hi, I am a 16 year old gymnast and have been experiencing a constant numb, tingling pain in my lower back, it is only on the right side and runs down until just above my knee cap. The pain is much worse when sitting but is always there, I have had it for a couple of days now but have ignored it as I am used to dealing with injuries with my sport. It seems to be getting worse now so would really appreciate some help.

The symptoms you are describing point to a neurologic cause. The pain in the lower back radiating to the knee cap is more likely to be due to a pinched nerve or a herniated lumbar disc than a pulled muscle.

Since the pain is worsening, you should be evaluated by your primary care physician or a neurologist with a physical exam. An X-ray can help determine if you have any boney abnormalities. If the X-ray is inconclusive, then an MRI can be performed to determine if you have a herniated disk or any nerve impingement.