What to Do When A Back Spasm Hits
By Sara Butler
Back pain is a common issue for many people or will be at some point. With an 80 percent chance of facing back pain sometime in your life, it's good to know what to do when it strikes you. Muscle spasms in the back are a huge source of back pain. What should you do when one strikes you? Here are some suggestions the chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic want you to know about.
Signs of a Back Spasm
How do you know if your back pain is being caused by a back spasm? Well, there are some telltale signs that a back spasm is to blame. Spasms experienced in the back can range from being mild to so intense you feel as if you cannot move.
The specific symptoms of muscle spasms in the back include:
- Cramping in the back
- Tightness or tension in the back
- Muscle weakness in the back
- Sudden, intense pain in the back
- Problems moving after bending over or picking something up
- Tightness in the muscles of the back after driving, sitting, or standing for long periods of time
The Causes of Back Spasms
Several things can cause back pain or contribute to it. The most common include:
- Overuse of the back muscles
- Poor posture
- Damage to the nerves in the back
- Stress
- Anxiety
- Limited exercise
- Scoliosis
What to Do If a Back Spasm Strikes
How a back spasm is treated really depends on what is causing it. The chiropractor can recommend a variety of things to address back spasms you have, including:
- Stretches
- Exercises
- Heat and ice therapy
- Rest
- Physical therapy
- Massage
- Chiropractic adjustments
- Relaxation techniques
If you want to focus on something about back spasms, then prevention is where you should look. You can keep them from happening if you work to ensure that the muscles that support your back are strong. This means regular exercise with a focus on the core muscles in your abdomen. A weak core puts stress and strain on the muscles in the back, leading to an increased risk of muscle spasms.
Work with your chiropractor to understand how to strengthen these muscles and prevent back spams in your future and for tips to practice better posture as you move throughout your day. Proper lifting technique, adequate rest, and proper hydration can help your back stay healthy as well.
If you have questions about back spasms, talk to the chiropractor today.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Los Angeles, Calif.