Are Back Spasms Cramping Your Style?

A sudden, involuntary contraction of one or more of your muscles is considered a muscle spasm or if you prefer a charley horse. The most common site is in the calf muscle at the back of the lower leg but can occur elsewhere. 

Several things can contribute to muscles spasming. Impingement of a nerve can cause spasming into the legs. When this occurs walking may aggravate this and leaning forward as if you were pushing a shopping cart can sometimes help to alleviate symptoms. Inadequate blood flow to the extremities can cause muscle spasms and will typically worsen with exercise. Loss of certain electrolytes in your body, potassium, magnesium, or calcium can also cause muscle spasms. When a muscle does spasm gentle stretching of the muscle can ease symptoms.

Warming up before and after exercise can limit the risk of spasms. Staying hydrated and avoiding caffeine and other stimulants can also help lower your risk of spasms. It is also good to remember that some prescription medication can deplete electrolyte levels and will require oral intake of those electrolytes lost as a result. Ice, heat, NSAID’s and other medications can help in the treatment of muscle spasms. Talk to your ASAP pain practitioner if your spasms are cramping your style.