Back Spasm Cures

Back spasms can be triggered by overexertion of the back or through a pinched nerve. A back spasm may also occur spontaneously due to contracting back muscles. If you are suffering from back spasms, you can use both natural and medical methods to treat them.

Exercises

• Stretching exercises will help stretch your back tissues and the extension of your muscles. Stretching can help relieve the stiffness of your back and improve its mobility.
  Aerobic or cardiovascular exercises are beneficial as well. They get your heart rate up, which allows oxygen and blood supply to circulate more effectively in the body. Thirty minutes of exercise at least three times a week is recommended. You can walk briskly, swim or jog. Avoid activities that are too strenuous and require twisting and vigorous flexions such as rowing and dancing.

Medication

• You can also take medication to treat your back spasms. Analgesics in particular relieve pain. Examples of analgesics include over-the-counter acetaminophen such as Tylenol, and aspirin. Prescription medication such as narcotics, in the form of oxycodone or hydrocodone, should only be taken for a short duration and only to treat severe levels of pain. Topical creams, salves and ointments may also be applied on the back's skin. Examples include Ben Gay, Icy Hot, and Zostrix.
  Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs are medications for pain relief and have anti-inflammatory properties as well. Examples of NSAIDs include over-the-counter drugs such as ibuprofen, ketoprofen and naproxen sodium.

Home Remedies

• Some ingredients from your pantry may help relieve your back pain. Cayenne pepper, which contains capsaicin (a natural chemical for pain relief), has been suggested to effectively alleviate back pain. Simply crush a red pepper and apply it to the back. You may also combine it with your lotion for easier application.
  Natural oils from peppermint, rosemary and lavender have pain relieving properties as well. Simply place four drops of each type of oil into 1/2 oz. of safflower oil. Warm them up and use it as massage oil for the back. Peppermint, rosemary and lavender will help reduce the inflammation and pain and prevent the occurrence of future spasms
  Hot and cold therapy is also a simple technique for back spasm treatment. Apply a cold compress to the painful area for 10 minutes. Do this every three hours for up to three days. After the three-day cold therapy, switch to hot therapy. Soak a towel in slightly hot water and while lying on your stomach, place the warmed-up towel on your back.