Back spasms have a way of sneaking up at the worst times—bending down to grab something, getting out of bed, or even just sitting the wrong way. One minute, you’re fine, and the next, your back locks up like a rusty hinge.
While these muscle cramps can be frustrating (and sometimes downright painful), they don’t have to control your life.
Let’s break down what’s going on, what might be causing your spasms, and how chiropractic care can help get your back feeling loose and pain-free!
What are Back Spasms, and Why Do They Happen?
A back spasm is exactly what it sounds like—your muscles suddenly tighten up and won’t let go. This involuntary contraction can last for seconds or stick around for days, making even simple movements challenging.
Back spasms are often triggered by overworked, strained, or irritated muscles. When your back muscles feel like they’re doing too much (or not being supported properly), they can seize up as a protective response.
What’s Causing Your Back Spasms?
1. Muscle Fatigue or Overuse
Overworking your muscles—especially if they’re not used to that kind of activity—can lead to spasms.
When your back gets tired, tight, or overworked, it might start cramping up as a way to say, “Enough already!”
2. Poor Posture
Slouching at your desk or sitting for long periods without proper support puts extra strain on your back muscles. Over time, poor posture can cause imbalances, making certain muscles work harder than they should.
3. Dehydration and Nutrient Deficiencies
Muscles need hydration and key minerals like potassium, magnesium, and calcium to function properly. If you’re not drinking enough water or missing out on these essential nutrients, your muscles may rebel in the form of painful spasms.
4. Spinal Misalignment
When your spine is out of alignment, certain muscles have to compensate, leading to tension and cramping. Misalignments can also put pressure on nerves, making back spasms even more uncomfortable.
5. Stress and Tension
Ever feel like stress just settles in your shoulders and lower back? You’re not imagining it. Emotional stress can lead to physical tension, causing muscles to tighten up and spasm unexpectedly.
Why Chiropractic Care is an Effective Solution for Back Spasms
If you’ve been dealing with back spasms, you might think the only solution is stretching, heat packs, or waiting it out—but chiropractic care takes things a step further. Instead of just treating the symptom, chiropractors get to the root cause of the problem to prevent it from happening again.
A chiropractor will assess spinal alignment, muscle tension, and joint mobility to figure out what’s making your back lock up in the first place. If there’s a misalignment, an adjustment can help take the pressure off overworked muscles, allowing them to relax naturally. Chiropractic care also improves blood flow, reduces nerve irritation, and helps your muscles function more efficiently, making spasms far less likely to return.
The best part? Chiropractic care is completely drug-free and non-invasive, so you’re helping your body heal naturally instead of masking the pain with medications.
Lifestyle Changes That Support a Spasm-Free Life
Stay Active (But Don’t Overdo It!)
Regular movement keeps your back strong and flexible, reducing the risk of spasms.
Low-impact activities like walking, swimming, or yoga can help loosen tight muscles while building strength in your core and back.
Watch Your Posture
Whether you’re sitting at your desk, watching TV, or standing in line, make sure your back is in a neutral position with shoulders relaxed and feet flat on the floor. Adding lumbar support to your chair can also help take pressure off your lower back.
Hydrate and Eat Muscle-Friendly Foods
Muscles need water and key minerals to function at their best. Drinking enough water throughout the day and eating potassium-rich foods like bananas, leafy greens, and nuts can help prevent muscle cramping.
Manage Stress and Tension
Since stress can lead to tight, overworked muscles, relaxation techniques like deep breathing, stretching, and even chiropractic adjustments can help keep tension (and spasms) at bay.
Take the Next Step—Find Lasting Relief With Chiropractic Care!
The chiropractic team at Bergen Chiropractic and Sports Rehabilitation Center adheres to the highest medical standards to provide superior chiropractic care. Our mission is to provide unparalleled patient care in a comfortable, healing atmosphere.
Access our contact form or call us at (201) 357-6539 to learn more about our chiropractic care services! Our offices at 532 Anderson Avenue, Cliffside Park, NJ 07010, and 62 Summit Ave, Hackensack, NJ 07601, are ready to welcome you as we proudly serve the areas of New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, PA, and Baltimore, MD. Also, access our blog, Facebook, and Instagram pages for more information on chiropractic care!
