We've all had those instances when we pick up an object the wrong way or turn our body too quickly and there it goes-pain! It is usually then that we realize that our body is just not like it used to be. In these situations, most commonly this pain is associated with a muscle spasm. A muscle spasm is when the muscles tighten and become inflamed or hot. Usually the area will feel warm as a result of the inflammatory process that takes place in the body. Commonly, it is suggested to use heat but during the first few days it is better to use ice to cool the muscle. The muscle is already hot and like a fire you want to cool it off not cook it. Our muscles cannot verbally speak to us, so in essence they speak through pain. A muscle spasm is the body's way of indicating that something is wrong.

Common causes:

Stress on the body is actually one of the main causes of muscle spasms such as lifting heaving objects or any type of physical activities that are out of the normal routine for an individual. Work overload is another contributing factor. Many individuals overexert themselves over prolonged periods of time until the body has physically broken down. Surprisingly, depression plays even a greater role in back pain. Research studies have shown that if the depression is treated effectively there is a greater reduction in the onset of back pain.

Common Treatment:

1. Place an ice pack (or a bag of frozen vegetables) on the area affected. Do not apply directly to the skin because the ice may burn the skin.

2. If the affected area is the back area you may lie on the ice but place a pillow underneath the knees to decrease the amount of pressure on the back.

3. Treatment time should be between 10-15 minutes; we want to cool the muscle not freeze it. Use the ice treatment throughout the day as often as needed.

4. Over-the-counter medications such as Aleve are also effective and coupled with your ice therapy will provide for quicker relief. Aleve is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication that is widely used and effective in treating muscle spasms.

Tips and Warnings:

As with any new medications, please consult with your health-care provider before taking any medications especially if you are currently under care for any health conditions.