Dealing With Muscle Spasms
By Sara Butler
Muscle spasms in your lower back can happen at any time, anywhere and can be caused by something as complex as an injury or something as simple as bending down to pick something up off the floor. They're painful and definitely no fun and can last for hours or days. The key to dealing with muscle spasms is to figure out the underlying cause and treat it -- which is where the chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic can help. But when you're not working on your treatment plan with your chiropractor, there are a few things you can do at home to help you prevent painful muscle spasms.
Work on Your Abs
This may not be a connection you make right away, but if you have weak muscles in your abdomen, it can have a big impact on your back. That's because strong muscles in the abdomen work with the muscles in your back to hold you upright. If the muscles in your abs are weak, then the muscles in the back must work overtime to pick up the slack. This can lead to some overworked muscles that are more prone to spasms, leaving you in pain.
Add some strength training exercises into your daily routine to help work your abs and you can reduce your chances of muscle spasms in the back.
Wear the Right Footwear
If you're on your feet for several hours each day, then you need to make sure you have some good shoes for the job! Supportive shoes support and cushion your legs and lower back, which can help to reduce some of the strain you're placing your body under on a daily basis. This will, in turn, help to reduce the chances of developing muscle spasms in your back from overworked and stressed muscles.
Watch How You Lift
Lifting heavy objects the wrong way can lead to back spasms. When you lift heavy things, then your back muscles have to pull and stretch in a way they're not used to. That's why the chiropractors at The Joint suggest that if you need to move something heavy, then you need to use a dolly or cart to get the job done. Also, you should always use the power in your legs and hips to lift, never your back. Squat down to pick something up and never use your back to do it.
If you're having muscle spasms, then talk to the chiropractors at The Joint today!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Lynnwood, Wash.