Your symptoms are suggestive of a muscle spasm. A muscle spasm, or muscle cramp, is an involuntary contraction of a muscle. Muscle spasms occur suddenly, usually resolve quickly, and are often painful. There are a variety of causes of muscle spasms, and each depends upon predisposing factors, the part of the body involved, and the environment that the body is in. Spasms may occur when a muscle is overused, tired, previously injured, or strained. The spasm may occur if the muscle has been overstretched or if it has been held in the same position for a prolonged period of time. In effect, the muscle cell runs out of energy and fluid and becomes hyperexcitable, resulting in a forceful contraction. This spasm may involve part of a muscle, the whole muscle, or even adjacent muscles. It is commonly thought that dehydration and depletion of
electrolytes will lead to muscle spasm and cramping. Muscle cells require enough water, glucose, sodium, potassium,
calcium, and magnesium to allow the proteins within them to develop an organized contraction. Abnormal supply of these elements can cause the muscle to become irritable and develop spasm. The following steps may help:
- Stay well hydrated aim to drink 3 liters of water per day
- Apply ice pack to reduce the swelling for 10-15 mins, don't apply it directly on the skin have it covered with a cloth while applying it twice a day.
- Apply a hot water bag over the area so that the muscle will relax and then apply the topical painkiller over the area and massage over the area which will give you relief, do this twice a day
- Eat healthy and have a balanced diet. Maintain the weight to a healthy weight as per the BMI.
- Get regular exercise to keep your back muscles fit and flexible.
- Avoid prolonged sitting.
- When you do sit, maintain good posture.
- Use proper techniques for lifting (lift with your legs rather than your back).
- Avoid frequent bending and twisting. Especially avoid bending, twisting and lifting at the same time.
- Avoid situations where your spine is vibrated for long periods of time.
- Get enough sleep each day.(Adults require 8 hours of sleep)
If the condition persists or worsens visit an orthopedician at the earliest.
Next Steps
Follow the steps as advised
Health Tips
If condition persists or worsens visit the orthopedician at the earliest