A muscle spasm of the back is a painful, involuntary and sudden contraction of the muscles. The muscles of the back are very prone to spasms primarily as they are weight bearing muscles. The back muscle spasms may lead to mild to severe back pain. Estimates have suggested that back pain due to muscle spasms is one of the most common cause for loss of workdays across the globe.
What Causes Upper Back Muscle Pain?
Common causes for muscle spasms of the back are:
- Muscle pull among athletes and sports persons, is a fairly common cause of back pain.
- Trauma to the muscles especially associated with a fall is a common cause.
- Wrong body posture especially among computer users is considered to be a common factor.
- Excessive strain on the back muscles (either due to heavy strain / rigorous exercises).
- Nerve damage caused primarily due to nerve root compression or spondylosis can also contribute to muscle spasms.
- Vitamin and mineral deficiency can also contribute to back muscle spasms.
- Osteoporosis especially among the elderly can lead to back pain.
- Arthritis and gout can also contribute to back pain and muscle spasms.
Treatment For Upper Back Muscle Spasms
Here are some simple treatment regimens that can help in the management of back pain associated with muscle spasms,
- Applying ice to the affected area helps ease the pain and inflammation speedily.
- Occasionally, a hot bag is applied to increase blood circulation of blood in the area, which helps loosen the muscles. Experts recommend alternate hot and cold therapy.
- Traction helps unload the spine.
- Visit a physiotherapist to relieve the pain and stress in the muscles.
- Certain exercises and stretches for the back are decidedly effective. They allay pain and discomfort in the strained muscles, reduce the spasm and alleviate swelling.
- Massage is greatly advocated to loosen taut muscles. Oils such as: mustard oil, sesame seed oil, and olive oil work wonders. Massaging with essential oils like lavender oil and clove oil can also help relieve muscle spasms.
- Acupressure is another effective therapy that quickly relieves back spasms. Acupressure helps in the normal flow of the blood.
- Nutritional deficiencies including calcium and magnesium deficiency can lead to muscle spasms. Include natural food sources like dairy products, dry fruits and nuts and fresh fruits like apple, bananas, etc in your diet. Alternatively include Vitamin and Mineral supplements in your diet.
- Homeopathic remedies like Bryonia Alba and Rhus Tox play a vital role in management of lower back pain and improving mobility and reducing stiffness.
- Maintaining a healthy posture. Ensure that your spine is erect while working on for long hours on the computer. Use a strong and hard mattress for sleeping.
- A warm up exercise is always beneficial, as it improves circulation across the body and prevents a strain on the muscles. Try to warm up for about 10 to 15 minutes before engaging in a activity involving physical exertion.