Back pain is a common and pervasive problem for many Americans. There are many causes for back pain, but one common component is a muscle spasm. A muscle spasm is an involuntary and persistent contraction of the muscle. When spinal structures or surrounding soft tissues are damaged, inflammation results, which then leads to muscle spasm. Inflammation is the main cause of back muscle spasms, according to Dr. Steven Ludwig, chief of spine surgery at the University of Maryland Medical Center. There are several effective ways to deal with muscle spasms.
Ice/Heat
Both heat and ice can be helpful at different points in treating a muscle spasm. In the first 24 to 72 hours after an injury or symptoms begin, ice is the appropriate choice because it helps reduce inflammation. Ice works by constricting nearby blood vessels and decreasing soft tissue mobility. Be sure to wrap an ice pack in the towel rather than placing it directly on the skin. Apply ice to the area of muscle spasms and pain for 20 minutes every few hours. After this initial period, when inflammation is no longer a concern, heat can be helpful by restoring blood flow and relaxing tight muscles. Like ice, the heat source should never be placed directly on the skin.
Medication
Several types of medication can be effective in helping resolve muscle spasms. Initially, over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs can be helpful in relieving symptoms associated with a muscle spasm, according to "USA Today." These drugs, such as ibuprofen, naproxen and aspirin are effective because they treat both inflammation and pain. If over-the-counter varieties are not effective, a doctor can prescribe a more potent version. In severe cases of pain, doctors may prescribe a short course of narcotic pain reliever. These should be used only temporarily because of their potential side effects. Corticosteroids may also be injected directly into the affected joints to reduce pain and inflammation. Muscle relaxant medication may also be prescribed by a doctor, but "USA Today" reports that these are rarely very effective.
Electrical Stimulation
Physical therapists and chiropractors both commonly use electrical stimulation in the treatment of back pain, inflammation and muscle spasm. In this passive therapy, electrodes are placed on the painful muscles and small amounts of electricity are passed into the belly of the muscle. This has the effect of causing muscle fatigue and will help break the spasm and relax the muscle, according to Spine Universe. This therapy is most often painless.
Activity
In the very early stages following an injury it may be appropriate to rest for a short time, but excessive rest exacerbates the problem. As soon as possible, gentle activities to include walking, stretching and range of motion exercises are generally very helpful. Care should be taken to avoid excessive strain on the muscles affected, but mobility is important.
