Contents:
- Medical Video: 60-Second Back Pain Fixes
- Treating back muscle spasms at home
- 1. Take medication
- 2. Massage
- 3. Mild exercise
- 4. Compress
- 5. Rest your back
Medical Video: 60-Second Back Pain Fixes
Back muscle spasms can occur as a result of back muscles that are suddenly drawn during activity or because of injury during exercise. In addition, lifting heavy items can also cause back muscles to spasm. Usually, pain due to spasm of the back muscles occurs in the lower back area which can feel more painful when you bend your body or turn your back. Don't worry, here are some easy ways to deal with back spasms that you can do at home.
Treating back muscle spasms at home
1. Take medication
Pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen (paracetamol) can treat muscle pain and lower back pain. Muscle relaxants such as carisoprodol (Soma, Vanadom) and cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril, Fexmid) can also help relieve symptoms of muscle spasms.
In addition, injections of anti-inflammatory drugs (cortisone) can also help overcome spasms of the back muscles. However, always consult a doctor before deciding to take certain drugs to ensure their safety and efficacy.
2. Massage
Quoted from a study published by the Canadian Medical Association Journal, a combination of massage therapy and mild stretching can reduce pain and swelling due to spasm of the back muscles. Stretching massage can also increase blood circulation to the back muscles to help remove inflammatory substances. In addition, massage extends the range of motion of the back muscles. and prevent muscle cramps.
The trick: lie on the floor or mattress with both hands straight beside the body. After that, tighten the abdominal muscles and slowly push your back to the floor. Hold for approximately 12 seconds before returning to its original state.
3. Mild exercise
Light stretches such as lifting your legs into the air can relax the muscles that often cramp while strengthening your back and stomach muscles.
The way to lie on the bed then lift your right leg and left leg together. Keep your hands and feet straight. Hold for approximately 12 seconds before returning to the starting position. Repeat the exercise by alternately lifting your left and right legs. Do it 20 times for each side.
4. Compress
Cold compresses can be used to relieve inflammation in a swollen or bruised back. Low temperatures stimulate narrowing of the arteries, thereby reducing the amount of blood that is leaking in the area. Wrap the ice pack with a clean washcloth and stick it for 15-20 minutes. If you want to repeat it, give it a break for about 20 minutes before putting it back on.
In addition to cold compresses, you can also use warm compresses. Warm compresses are generally used to relieve the pain of muscles or joints that have lasted a long time. The recommended temperature for warm compresses is around 40-50ºC. Place it in a painful place for no more than 20 minutes. Warm compresses should not be affixed to the muscle spasm that has just occurred or that looks swollen.
5. Rest your back
You should rest your back and don't move much if you experience severe muscle spasms. Reduce pressure on the lower back by tucking the pillow under the knee, both when sleeping on his side or sleeping on his back.
If symptoms worsen and do not also subside with the above treatment, then immediately consult a doctor to get the right diagnosis. Appropriate treatment can prevent the severity of the condition caused by spasm of the back muscles.
