How to Immediately Treat Back Spasms
By Sara Butler
There you are, washing your windows or planting some new flowers in the garden and then -- a back spasm strikes! Back spasms are cramps or painful contractions of the muscles in the back. They can occur during nearly any activity, from exercise to simply getting out of bed in the morning. If you find yourself in the throes of a back spasm, here’s what you can do at the moment to help you find relief.
The Causes of Muscle Cramps
Muscle cramps can be caused by several things. They may occur because you’re dehydrated, if you’re deficient in certain vitamins, or you’re not getting enough important vitamins such as magnesium, potassium, or calcium.
You’re at a higher risk of cramps if you are on certain medications, too.
Step No. 1: Apply Ice
When you feel the muscle start to cramp up, ice the area that is cramping right away. Take the ice pack and massage it into the area that is affected. If it’s in a place that you can’t easily reach, then get someone to help you apply ice to it. Keep it on for 10 to 12 minutes. The cold of the ice will help to reduce inflammation and pain. Take breaks of at least 20 minutes between applications of ice, but you can do it regularly for as long as you need to find relief. Make sure you only apply ice for the first 24 to 48 hours and not heat -- heat can make the inflammation worse.
Step No. 2: Stretch
As much as you may not want to, it’s important not to just rest the area affected by the cramp. You must move and do some gentle stretches. It can actually relieve the symptoms and prevent future cramps from happening.
You should try to do pelvic tilts to help strengthen your lower back if you find that you struggle with muscle cramps in your back.
Step No. 3: See Your Chiropractor
Muscle cramps don’t normally require medical attention. If you’re unsure why you’re suffering from them and they’re becoming a problem, then you should discuss them with your chiropractor at The Joint. They could be the result of a joint dysfunction, restriction, or a muscle imbalance that a chiropractor can identify and treat.
You don't have to live with muscle spasms. Know what to do if you get one, then make sure to follow up with your chiropractor to keep them from happening again!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Houston, Tex.
