Back Muscle Spasms Symptom

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), a muscle spasms symptom description is straightforward; "When a muscle goes into spasm it feels very tight and is sometimes described as a knot. The pain can be severe."

To that, when talking about a back muscle spasm, I would add - "and debilitating". If you have experienced one, you know what I mean.

Although a muscle spasm may only slow you down temporarily, it usually stops you in place for at least a few minutes, or until the cramped muscle begins to relax and becomes less tense.

Slightly bulging muscles, along with muscle stiffness, and muscles that are tender to the touch, can also be a symptom of back muscle spasms.

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Back Exercises, Back Pain Treatment, Back Muscle Spasm, Muscle Cramps Causes

What Causes Muscle Cramps?

Muscle cramps or spasms can occur in any muscle. Along with upper back, mid-back and lower back muscle spasms, they often appear as...

...neck muscle spasms, calf muscle cramps (or, Charley Horses), foot cramps, and sometimes - the most startling of all - muscle cramps at night, referred to as nocturnal muscle cramps.

Although spasms and cramps often appear suddenly and without warning, the National Institute of Health website talks about some very direct causes of muscle spasms, such as...

...muscle stress, muscle fatigue, muscle injury or overuse, dehydration, magnesium, potassium or calcium imbalance, and nerve irritation. Knowing the cause can certainly help in determining appropriate muscle spasm treatment.

Treatment for Muscle Cramps in Back

Although common treatment for back muscle cramps, or spasms, includes...

...rest, stretching exercise, massage therapy, and heat or ice therapies, the NIH cautions...

If a muscle spasms symptom is severe or causes weakness, consult with your health care provider. A medical professional may also help in relieving muscle cramps and preventing future spasms.