Treating Muscle Spasms and Back Pain
Back Pain and Muscle Spasms—a Common Connection
There are many treatment options for pain caused by muscle spasms, but first it’s important to know the types of pain associated with muscle spasms. For example, back pain is often caused by a simple pull or "strain" of a muscle or ligament—and when muscles are strained, they may go into spasm and cause pain.8,9
Types of Pain—Acute or Chronic Pain: What's the Difference?
Acute pain describes a sharp pain that comes on quickly. The most common acute pain results from a strain or muscle spasm. This pain usually lasts a short time—4 to 6 weeks. Typical causes of acute back pain include a sudden twist during a weekend sports activity, sitting for a long time at the computer, or even bending over to put on your shoes.4,5,9
Chronic pain can come on quickly or slowly. However, it lingers over time—more than 3 months. This type of pain may be the result of an old injury. Additionally, degenerative changes can lead to chronic pain in the back.4,9
Diagnosing Back Pain Related to Muscle Spasms
While there are many causes of back pain, the symptoms are often the same, such as4:
- Persistent aching or stiffness somewhere along the spine—from the base of the neck, all the way to the hips
- Sharp pain in a small area of the neck or the upper or lower back
- Continual ache in the middle or lower back
Seeking Help From a Healthcare Professional
Pain associated with muscle spasms often goes away with time. But if the pain you are feeling does not go away in a few days after using home treatment and self-care, see your healthcare professional. The pain can be treated in a variety of ways, including physical therapy, cold and heat, and limited exercise.3,4 Your healthcare professional is the best source for devising a treatment program that works best for you.
Find out about how to work with your healthcare professional 
If your discomfort is related to pain from muscle spasms, ask your healthcare professional about SKELAXIN® 800mg (metaxalone) Tablets, a muscle relaxant that provides relief of acute, painful muscle spasms—the kind of spasms that can cause back pain.1,6 SKELAXIN® works best when it is part of a complete treatment program, including rest, physical therapy, and other measures of relief as directed by your healthcare professional.6
Before you see your healthcare professional, learn about SKELAXIN®
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