Lower back spasms can happen to anyone, and they can be caused by a number of different things. More than 80% of people will have a back spasm at some point during their lives. During a lower back spasm the muscles and tendons in the lower back become inflamed and sometimes injured, causing pain that can last for a short time or for hours. Treating back spasms can be tricky because there could be many underlying causes for the spasm. But you can take steps to prevent lower back spasms. If you want to lower your chances of getting a lower back spasm you should:
Strengthen Your Abs
Increasing the strength in your core muscles can prevent injury and strain in your back muscles. If you don’t already do a core workout add one to your daily routine. The stronger your core is the less likely you are to get lower back spasms.
Wear The Right Shoes
If you work on your feet for eight or more hours every day invest in high quality supportive shoes and wear them for your entire shift. Lower back spasms are very common among people who work on their feet and don’t wear shoes that cushion the feet and ease the stress on the back that comes from standing for long periods of time. The right shoes really can make a huge difference.
Avoid Heavy Lifting
Heavy lifting is the number one cause of back spasms because it pulls and stretches back muscles that aren’t used to moving like that. If you have to lift something heavy get someone to help you lift it, or use a cart or a dolly. If you have to pick up something heavy be sure that you always squat down a little and start the lifting motion in your knees and not in your back.
Stretch
Keeping your back muscles and tendons loosened up with stretches is a great way to prevent spasms. Try doing some yoga stretches for the back when you get up in the morning to loosen up your muscles for the day ahead. If you sit at a desk all day make sure that you get up a few times during the day and walk around and stretch. Keeping your back muscles from tightening up during the day will prevent spasms at night. Dr. Cheree Sandness-Johnson at Chiropractic Healing Center can also help with low back pain. Give us a call today to schedule your appointment.
