Yes, prolonged and severe back spasms are something many MyMSTeam members have experienced. One MyMSTeam member described their spasms as feeling like "muscles ripping away from bones," while others have shared how back spasms leave them feeling like they worked out intensely for days.
Back spasms in MS happen because Show Full Answer
Yes, prolonged and severe back spasms are something many MyMSTeam members have experienced. One MyMSTeam member described their spasms as feeling like "muscles ripping away from bones," while others have shared how back spasms leave them feeling like they worked out intensely for days.
Back spasms in MS happen because nerve damage disrupts normal muscle contractions, causing multiple muscles to contract at once while resisting being stretched — essentially a tug-of-war in your muscles. Spasms can be triggered or made worse by several things, including:
- Sudden movements or position changes
- Extreme temperatures
- Infections
- Constipation
- A full bladder
- Stress
- Exhaustion
If back spasms are lasting more than a day, it's really worth reaching out to a neurologist. Treatment options can include muscle relaxants, Botox injections to calm overactive muscles, or in more severe cases, a baclofen pump.
In the meantime, getting up and moving around periodically (even short walks) can help, as staying still for long periods tends to make spasticity worse.
May 29
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