Back Muscle Spasm

Without a doubt, one of the most extreme back pains that I have had is a back muscle spasm.

And, if you have had a spasm, I'm guessing that it was one of the most severe pains you have ever had.

The United States National Library of Medicine reports that the most common cause of back pain is muscles spasms. 

But what causes of muscle spasms and what is the best muscle spasm treatment?

This website is written by a patient NOT a practitioner. Exercises and techniques discussed here were provided to me - for my specific needs. To avoid risk of serious injury they should not be used by others without being discussed with a qualified health care provider.

Causes of Muscle Spasms

Muscle spasms in the back can often be caused by a twisting or strain on one of the back muscles, which in turn causes involuntary muscle contractions. Although this often occurs when tense, tight back muscles are present, it can happen in any circumstance.

As a result of the contraction people often complain of having symptoms of either a "locked" back, or a "knot" in their back.

Among the most common causes of muscle spasms in the back...

• a sneeze or cough
• lifting heavy objects
• incorrect sitting posture
• muscle overuse, or injury
• dehydration

However, almost any motion, or even inactivity, can trigger muscle contractions that cause middle or lower back muscle spasms, as well as neck muscle spasms.

How do you prevent this?

The best way I have found to prevent back pain and injury in my own back is to keep muscles stretched and flexible through stretch exercise, and avoiding sudden jerky movements. With proper prevention I am far less likely to suffer from repeated chronic muscle spasms.

You may also be interested in:
Back Exercises, Back Pain Treatment, Lower Back Pain, Muscle Spasms Symptom

Back Muscle Spasm Treatment

When it spasms, a muscle is actually contracting. For a contraction that is not being caused by an underlying medical condition, I have had health care professionals recommend simple stretching exercise and relaxation, for back spasm pain relief.

When a spasm first occurs I stop whatever activity I am doing and try to relax by...

• sitting
• lying down
• doing gentle stretches, or
• massaging the muscle

Although my first reaction may be to tense other muscles, I try to keep them relaxed and have found that deep breathing helps me in doing this.

Ice therapy can be very effective in reducing swelling and relieving pain, and it has been recommended to me as muscle spasm treatment for the initial 48-72 hours. After that time, I have found heat therapy to be most useful.

When the pain is severe, as it often is with a muscle spasm, a doctor may suggest the use of over the counter medication, until pain begins to subside.

A back muscle spasm can be caused by several medical conditions. If pain persists or is chronic, you should talk with your doctor to discuss treatment options.