- Lasts longer than a few weeks.
- Is severe and doesn’t improve with rest.
- Spreads down one or both legs, especially if the pain goes below the knee.
- Causes weakness, numbness, or tingling in one or both legs.
- Is paired with unexplained weight loss.
Seek medical attention immediately if pain causes new bowel or bladder problems, is accompanied by a fever or follows a fall, blow to the back or other injury.
Back spasm treatment
Various treatments can help alleviate the discomfort and promote healing. The Mayo Clinic notes that treatment options for back spasms may include:
- Applying ice or heat — The application of ice packs or heating pads can help reduce inflammation and soothe muscles. Cold therapy is generally recommended within the first 48 hours of a spasm, while heat therapy can be beneficial for relaxing tense muscles in the days that follow.
- Over-the-counter pain medications — Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen or naproxen sodium, can temporarily relieve back spasms by reducing pain and inflammation.
- Prescription medications — In some cases, muscle relaxants may be prescribed to help alleviate muscle tension and provide relief from severe spasms.
- Physical therapy — A physical therapist can design a personalized exercise program to strengthen the back muscles, improve flexibility and correct posture. A therapist may also utilize massage, manual therapy and electrical stimulation techniques to help manage pain and reduce spasms.
- Alternative therapies —Complementary treatments like acupuncture, chiropractic care and yoga have shown promise in relieving back spasms for some individuals. These approaches focus on improving overall well-being, promoting relaxation and reducing muscle tension. However, according to the U.S. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, there’s low- or moderate-quality evidence that these practices may be helpful for chronic low-back pain.
How to stop back spasms
When back spasms strike, finding quick and effective ways to stop them becomes a top priority. Fortunately, there are several strategies you can employ to get on track to a pain-free day.
- Stretch it out — Gentle stretching exercises can help relax muscles and relieve tension, potentially easing back spasms, according to Alberta Health Services.
- Apply heat or cold therapy — The Mayo Clinic notes that heat helps reduce pain by relaxing and loosening tense muscles, which can help speed healing. Further, alternating between heat and cold packs can help reduce inflammation and soothe the affected area, providing temporary relief.
- Practice good posture — Maintaining proper posture while sitting, standing and lifting can alleviate strain on back muscles, reducing the likelihood of spasms.
- Stay active — Regular exercise, particularly activities that strengthen the core and promote flexibility, can aid in preventing future back spasms by improving muscle strength and stability.
Back spasms can be managed and alleviated
Back spasms can be a disruptive and painful experience, but they can be effectively managed and alleviated with the right approaches. Understanding the causes, symptoms and treatment options for back spasms empowers individuals to take control of their well-being and find relief.
From applying heat or cold therapy to practicing good posture and engaging in targeted exercises, there are various strategies available. Remember, if back spasms persist or worsen, it is important to seek professional medical advice to receive personalized guidance and ensure the most appropriate course of action for your specific condition.