A back spasm “is
the involuntary contraction or tensing of the muscles in the lower back”
. Back spasms can be a result of injuries to muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the back or they can be related to more serious medical conditions-therefore, it important that you are taking care of your body.
What do back spasms indicate?
A back spasm is a
sudden and involuntary contraction, or uncontrollable tightening, of a muscle in response to strain, overuse, weakness, or muscle pain related to injury or a disorder
. Back spasms often occur near the spinal cord or near the nerve roots that lead in and out of the spinal cord.
What is the main cause of back spasms?
Back spasms can be the result of injuries to the muscles, tendons, and ligaments in the back, or they can be related to more serious medical conditions.
Heavy lifting
is a common cause of back spasms.
What do back spasms feel like?
A back spasm can feel like
a tightening, pulling or twitching of the muscles in your back
. With some muscle spasms the muscle will be hard to the touch or show a visible twitching. The intensity and duration of each muscle spasm can vary.
What happens during a back spasm?
A back spasm is
sudden tightness and pain in your back muscles
. It may happen from overuse or an injury. Things like sleeping in an awkward way, bending, lifting, standing, or sitting can sometimes cause a spasm.
When should I be worried about back spasms?
You should see a doctor for muscle spasms if you encounter any of the following situations: Any muscle spasms that are occurring regularly. Muscle spasms that are not resolving on their own with rest, hydration, and proper nutrition. Any
pain or injury
that you have as a result of a muscle spasm, especially back spasms.
What is the best medicine for back spasms?
Over-the-counter (OTC) pain relievers.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as
ibuprofen
(Advil, Motrin IB, others) or naproxen sodium (Aleve), may help relieve back pain. Take these medications only as directed by your doctor.
How do you get rid of back spasms fast?
- Stretching. Stretching the area that has the muscle spasm can usually help improve or stop the spasm from occurring. …
- Massage. …
- Ice or heat. …
- Hydration. …
- Mild exercise. …
- Nonprescription remedies. …
- Topical creams that are anti-inflammatory and pain relieving. …
- Hyperventilation.
How do I get rid of back spasms?
- Short period of rest. A painful back muscle spasm can make it difficult to perform daily activities or even move. …
- Cold therapy. …
- Heat therapy. …
- Comfortable inclined position. …
- Over-the-counter pain relievers. …
- Muscle relaxants.
How should I sleep with back spasms?
If you sleep on your side, put the pillow between your knees and draw them up slightly toward your chest. If you like to sleep on your back, try
the pillow under your knees
, or roll up a small towel and place it under the small of your back. Avoid sleeping on your stomach because it puts a lot of strain on your back.
How long does it take to recover from back spasms?
How Long Do Back Spasms Last? Most episodes of back spasms last for only a few days. Some severe cases last
about six to eight weeks
, but spasms and pain should subside gradually over that time period, allowing you to move normally and get back to your normal activity.
Is heat good for back spasms?
Heat Is For Muscle Pain
Heat also loosens tight trigger points and softens muscles to decrease stiffness and increase flexibility. If you’re experiencing muscle spasms or chronic back pain, place a
heating pad in the area for 15-20 minutes
to reduce pain.
What are spasms like?
Muscle spasms can
feel like a stitch in the side or be agonizingly painful
. You may see a twitch under your skin and it may feel hard to the touch. Spasms are involuntary. The muscles contract and it takes treatment and time for them to relax.
How do you stop back spasms?
- maintain good posture throughout the day.
- keep up a good sitting posture when spending long times at a desk.
- use a medium-softness mattress.
- lift heavy objects with the legs, not the back.
Can stress cause back spasms?
Stress and anxiety can also cause lower back spasm
. Some people respond to stress by unconsciously tensing their muscles or by producing more adrenaline. Stress and anxiety can also decrease a person’s motivation, which can lead to physical inactivity. All of these factors contribute to the likelihood of muscle spasms.
Is walking good for back spasms?
People with ongoing or recurrent episodes of lower back pain should consider the benefits of walking as a
low-impact form of exercise
. Aerobic exercise has long been shown to reduce the incidence of low back pain.
