Back spasms and back pain are quite common and one of the top reasons why people may seek medical help. Various factors could cause a back spasm, including muscle injuries or strains, poor posture, age, or other underlying conditions. Luckily, many preventative methods help prevent back spasms – read below to find out. Key Takeaways Definition: Back spasms are involuntary contractions, tightening, or seizing of the back muscles, often involving back and abdominal muscles. Symptoms: Include sudden tightness, pulsing, deep or sharp pains, and occasionally tingling, numbness, muscle weakness, or changes in bowel or bladder control. Causes: Result from muscle injuries, strains, poor posture, heavy lifting, and underlying conditions like spinal stenosis or disk herniations. Risk Factors: Include weak back muscle spasm, stomach muscles, obesity, older age, and prolonged sitting. Treatments: Range from rest, heat, ice, physical therapy, medications, muscle relaxants, and steroid injections for severe cases. Doctors often suggest physical therapy.
