Back Muscle Spasm

Back muscle spasm is always terribly painful. The muscles contract violently and uncontrollably. Every movement might set off a new series of horrible muscular contractions. This experience is often described as the most painful experience of a person�s life. (I can personally agree with that statement 100%!!!)

back muscle spasm

Immediate First Aid for Back Muscle Spasm

The best idea for a new injury is rest and ice. Try to relax and find a comfortable position. Avoid any movement that will set off a new series of spasms. Apply ice to the area 10- 20 minutes at a time, every 1 to 2 hours. Do not apply ice for longer than 20 minutes. OTC drugs might be needed for symptomatic relief of severe pain.

Continuing Treatment for Back Muscle Pain

Once the spasm has ended, the back pain might still be there. Now is the time to work on a treatment plan to rehabilitate the muscles.

* Take it easy, but move around. Prolonged bed rest can make the muscles weak and stiff, often perpetuating the painful condition.

* Increase the circulation of blood to the area. Heat or Hydrotherapy are gentle and excellent means for increasing blood flow. Oxygen deprivation back pain can be very painful.

* Try to avoid pain management drugs if possible. Substitute natural pain relief if available. Acupuncture is a good choice.

* Once the pain has improved, use stretching and exercise to rebuild the muscular strength and range of motion. Start slow and consider using a professional to assist you with your back pain rehabilitation.

* Be careful not to re-injure the same muscles. If necessary and indicated, wear a supportive back brace when doing heavy work.

Recommendation for Back Muscle Spasm

I clearly remember having muscle contractions that were worse than the fear of death. Anything seemed like a better situation than to be lying in a hospital bed, drugged up to the point of stupor, yet still in indescribable pain. My muscles were in such violent contraction that the doctors were unable to examine me at all for an entire day! This is my most vivid memory of back pain.

I understand the misery of muscular back pain. Please, be patient and it will pass. Keep a positive outlook and realize that the back spasm will stop and the pain will fade. The more you worry and obsess over the pain, the longer it will last. Trust me. Once you are better, work on becoming as healthy as possible to prevent further muscle injuries. If you are the victim of chronic muscle pain or recurrent injuries, knowledge therapy might be the answer to your long term pain problem.

Back Muscle Spasm to Back Pain Home 5/21/06 Revised 8/12/08