Having a back that seizes up can be an excruciatingly painful experience, which can prevent one from being able to move at all until the pain subsides. Fortunately, there are a few treatments that can help to alleviate this type of discomfort, and to ultimately get back to full mobility. In this article, I’ll discuss what causes back seizures, the treatments available to help alleviate the pain, preventive measures to take in order to reduce the risk of back seizures, and other commonly asked questions.
What Causes Back Seizures?
Back seizures can be caused by a variety of things, such as a disk or vertebrae being out of alignment or a muscle spasm. The most common causes of back seizures are muscle strain or over-exertion, a back injury, or a slipped disk.
Muscle Strain
Muscle strain is one of the most common causes of back seizures. The muscle fibers become torn or stretched, leading to pain and discomfort. Strenuous activity or bad posture can cause back muscles to become overworked and strained, resulting in a seizure.
Back Injury
Injury to the back is another cause of back seizures. Falls, car accidents, sports injuries and heavy lifting can all lead to back injuries that cause a seizure. The injured muscle tissue cannot relax, leading to a spasm and a seizure.
Slipped Disk
The third most common cause of back seizures is a slipped disk. The spine is made up of disks of cartilage and the bones of the spine rub together. If one of these disks becomes misaligned, it can cause a slip in the spine and lead to a back seizure.
Treatments for Back Seizures
There are a few treatments available to help treat back seizures. Depending on the severity of the seizure, the treatment will vary.
Over-the-Counter Medications
For mild to moderate back seizures, over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen can help reduce swelling. These medications can also help decrease muscle spasms and reduce pain associated with back seizures.
Heat or Cold Therapy
Heat or cold therapy can also provide relief from back seizures. Applying cold or hot packs to the affected area can help reduce swelling and relax the muscles.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy can help to reduce pain and muscle tension, as well as increase flexibility and range of motion. It is important to only seek massage therapy from an experienced and licensed therapist, as improperly done massage can further injure the back.
Physical Therapy
Finally, physical therapy is often prescribed for the treatment of back seizures. A physical therapist can work with the patient to develop a personalized plan that can help to alleviate pain and discomfort associated with the seizure.
Preventive Measures
In addition to treatments, preventive measures can be taken to reduce the risk of back seizures. These measures can help alleviate existing pain and prevent future seizures from occurring.
Correct Posture
One of the most important preventive measures is to have proper posture. Proper posture helps to distribute the weight of the body evenly, preventing muscles from becoming strained or overworked. When sitting or standing for long periods of time, it is important to ensure that the back is kept straight and that the feet are flat on the ground.
Regular Exercise
Regular exercise is also important for prevention of back seizures. Stretching and endurance exercises can help to strengthen the back muscles and reduce the risk of muscle strain or injury.
Adequate Rest and Sleep
Ensuring that one gets adequate rest and sleep is also essential for prevention of back seizures. During sleep, the spine and muscles are able to relax and recuperate, which is important for preventing muscle strains.
People Also Ask
Can Stress Cause Back Seizures?
Stress can cause the muscles to become tense, leading to an increased risk of back seizures. To reduce the risk of back seizures due to stress, it is important to engage in regular exercise and relaxation activities such as meditation or yoga.
How Long Does a Back Seizure Last?
The length of a back seizure can vary depending on the severity of the injury. Mild to moderate seizures can last anywhere from a few minutes to a few hours, while severe seizures can last for days or weeks.
What Are the Signs of a Back Seizure?
The most common signs of a back seizure include sudden pain or discomfort, muscular stiffness or spasms, and tightness or cramping in the back area. These symptoms can range from mild to severe, and can even lead to temporary immobility.
Final Words
Back seizures can be a debilitating and painful experience, but thankfully, there are treatments and preventive measures that can help alleviate the pain and reduce the risk of future seizures. By understanding the possible causes and symptoms of back seizures, one is better prepared to take proactive measures that can help alleviate present pain, and ultimately get back to full mobility.