How Long to Rest After Back Spasm?
2 min read
Asked by: Liz May
Jung suggests resting your back for about 48 hours after an injury or after the first time you notice significant pain. After that, you can slowly increase your activity level. Getting up and moving as soon as spasms and sharp pains subside can help ease pain and stiffness.
How long does it take to recover from back spasms?
Most episodes of back spasms last for only a few days. Some severe cases last about six to eight weeks, but spasms and pain should subside gradually over that time period, allowing you to move normally and get back to your normal activity.
Should you rest a back spasm?
Healthcare providers used to prescribe bed rest for those who deal with back spasms. Such inactivity is no longer recommended. Instead, follow your provider’s instructions about the following: Ice/heat: Apply ice or heat to the location of your back spasms.
Should you walk after a back spasm?
You can start with 5 to 10 minutes, 3 or 4 times a day, and work up to longer walks. Walk on level surfaces and avoid hills and stairs until your back starts to feel better. After your back spasm starts to feel better, try to stretch your muscles every day, especially before and after exercise and at bedtime.
How long should you rest a muscle spasm?
Waiting at least 72 hours after your spasms start allows the initial swelling and inflammation to go down, and moist heat is generally preferred to dry because it reduces the potential for dehydration.
How do you get rid of back spasms fast?
Some effective treatments include:
- Short period of rest. A painful back muscle spasm can make it difficult to perform daily activities or even move. …
- Cold therapy. …
- Heat therapy. …
- Comfortable inclined position. …
- Over-the-counter pain relievers. …
- Muscle relaxants.
What does a back spasm feel like?
A lower back spasm usually feels like a muscle is firmly contracting or moving. However, it might also feel like a dull ache that moves, a sharp pain in a specific location, or any combination of these painful sensations.
Is massage good for back spasms?
Massage therapy increases blood flow to soft tissues in the body, so it can heal and reduce pain. Relieve muscle tension – Massage therapy takes tension and tightness out of muscles. It helps reduce muscle spasms, inflammation, aches, and stiffness.
