A back spasm is an abnormal contraction of muscle that can be exquisitely painful if it occurs near bone or nerves as they leave the spinal cord. You most likely have a back spasm if you experience severe back pain that typically occurs after sudden twisting, lifting or pulling, according to the Cedars-Sinai website. Spasms occur when your back muscles are weak, you are compensating for another back problem or have tight hamstrings. In most cases, severe back spasms are associated with injury to the spine or spinal cord. Consult your doctor to determine if your back problems are a serious health concern.
Step 1
Assess your pain if you have back spasms. Severe pain localized to your back may be a health concern. In particular, severe pain that is over the bony part of your back, or pain that starts in the back and radiates to the lower legs, may indicate a fracture or disc protrusion; this is often accompanied by severe back spasms. In this case, your back spasms require medical attention.
Step 2
Check the range of motion of your back. A severe spasm that is limiting your ability to flex, extend, lean to the side or twist may signal significant injury to the muscles in your back. Cedars-Sinai reports that a severe spasm is the result of severe tearing of the muscles or tendons in the back. If the motion of your spine is severely limited, consult your doctor.
Step 3
Assess the strength of your legs to determine the severity of your back spasms. If your back spasms were accompanied by new leg weakness, you should be concerned. The most simple method to test your leg strength is to walk. In addition to walking with a regular gait, walk on your heels for a few steps, then walk on your toes. If you have weakness walking on your heels or toes, your back spasms may be a sign of nerve injury originating from the spine. Do not hesitate to seek medical attention.
Tips and Warnings
- Most back spasms can be treated with rest, ice, and medications. If you have had a previous back injury that required physical therapy, continue to perform exercises after your finish your sessions to prevent injury. Always lift with your knees bent and avoid lifting with a bent back.
- Immediate sensory changes in the legs, weakness or loss of bowel or bladder control requires immediate medical treatment.
