A back spasm can hit you like a crack of lightning. It can be sudden, severe, and prevent normal movement. Unfortunately, it is quite common. Let’s find out why they happen and when to see a doctor for back spasms.
Likely Causes Of Back Spasms
Tight muscle tissue caused by some stress issue, usually mechanical, is the main cause of a back spasm. Most back spasms last a few days, and severe cases can last for several weeks gradually becoming less painful. It can feel similar to cramping, a tight knot, and you could have difficulty bending or moving.
Typical causes include getting older, poor posture especially when sitting, if you do frequent heavy lifting, if you are overweight or obese, or are under emotional stress. Smoking can also contribute to someone having back spasms.
Using your muscles too much or not enough can trigger a back spasm. Not drinking enough water and loss of potassium or calcium can be problematic. Try to minimize these if possible to reduce any incidence of back spasms.
More mechanical causes include the following:
- A herniated lumbar disc
- Arthritis in your lower back
- Overuse
- Poor posture
- A lumbar strain
- Spinal stenosis and spondylolisthesis
Combine these issues with lack of healthy exercise and being anxious and stressed, and the problem can become worse. The question is when to see OrthoNY for back spasms.
See OrthoNY If
You are dealing with a medical emergency if your spasm is accompanied by loss of bladder or bowel control, muscle weakness, numbness on one side of your body, loss of balance or coordination, and loss of feeling in your limbs. Don’t delay seeking medical attention.
Your spasm occurs after a significant trauma.
You have difficulty beginning to urinate.
You can’t sit or stand upright.
You have a fever.
You lose weight and begin to get spasms.
If spasms don’t improve after resting for a week or more.
Contact OrthoNY at (518) 489-2663 if you have any concerns about your back spasms and other symptoms.