How Muscle Relaxers Work for Back and Neck Pain

by | Oct 11, 2023 | Muscle Pain | 0 comments

How Muscle Relaxers Work for Back and Neck Pain

Understanding and Treating Muscle Spasms: A Comprehensive Guide

Muscle spasms can strike suddenly and cause significant discomfort. They are often unpredictable, leaving you searching for solutions to alleviate the pain. In this guide, we’ll delve into the causes of muscle spasms, the effectiveness of muscle relaxers, and various remedies and prevention strategies.

What Causes Muscle Spasms?

Muscle spasms can be triggered by a variety of factors, including nocturnal spasms, exercise-related spasms, or injuries. Dehydration or neurological disorders can also lead to muscle spasms.

The Role of Central Nervous System Sedation

Muscle relaxers are a primary tool in managing muscle spasms. These medications, known as centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxers, work by sedating the central nervous system. By doing so, they interrupt signals from the brain to the muscles, effectively “shutting off the electricity” at the source.

Commonly Prescribed Muscle Relaxers

Several muscle relaxers are commonly prescribed, each with its unique properties. These include:

  • Soma (Carisoprodol): A sedative used for short periods, typically up to two to three weeks.
  • Flexeril, Amrix (Cyclobenzaprine): Often used for fibromyalgia, with typical dosages ranging from 5 to 10 mg three times a day.
  • Skelaxin (Metaxalone): Usually taken in doses of 800 mg three to four times a day, known for its sedative effect.
  • Robaxin (Methocarbamol): Prescribed at a standard dose of 1,500 mg per day.
  • Norflex (Orphenadrine): Both a muscle relaxant and anticholinergic, it is used to control tremors related to conditions like Parkinson’s disease.

Understanding Muscle Spasticity

Muscle spasticity, different from muscle spasms, is characterized by chronic muscle tension. It often results from conditions like stroke, spinal cord injuries, or multiple sclerosis.

Medications for Muscle Spasticity

To address muscle spasticity, medications called antispastics are required. These medications primarily target the central nervous system and, in some cases, the muscles directly. Common antispastics include:

  • Lioresal, OZOBAX (Baclofen): An inhibitory neurotransmitter, Baclofen comes in various forms, with dosages ranging from 5 mg to no more than 80 mg per day.
  • Dantrium (Dantrolene): Unlike central nervous system medications, Dantrolene targets muscles directly and is typically administered at no more than 100 mg four times a day.
  • Zaniflex (Tizanidine): This medication blocks pain signaling between the muscle and brain, helping to relax muscles, starting with a 2 mg dose three or four times a day.

Other Alternatives

When muscle relaxers and antispastics don’t provide relief, physicians explore additional treatments:

  • Benzodiazepines: Typically avoided in older adults due to the risk of serious side effects, they may be used for severe, acute spasticity.
  • Botulinum Toxin: Used for muscle spasticity, injections may offer temporary relief.
  • Natural Remedies: Topical treatments, such as balms containing camphor, menthol, or capsaicin, may help. Arnica gel, magnesium supplements, and pickle juice are other options worth considering.

Home Remedies for Muscle Spasms

There are several home remedies to alleviate muscle spasms:

  • Heat: Applying heat to the affected area can relax tight muscles and improve blood flow.
  • Massage: Gentle massage can ease muscle tension, helping with spasms and spasticity.
  • Over-the-Counter Pain Relievers: Aspirin and NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen may reduce inflammation and pain.
  • Gentle Stretching: Regular stretching can alleviate muscle spasms and spasticity, making them less severe.
  • Needling: Acupuncture and dry needling can help relieve pain and tension.
  • Electrotherapy: Low-voltage electrical current can stimulate spasming muscles and improve muscle strength.

Preventing Muscle Spasms

To prevent muscle spasms:

  • Stay Hydrated: Adequate hydration helps maintain electrolyte balance and prevent spasms.
  • Take Breaks: Avoid overuse of certain muscles by taking breaks and maintaining good posture.

Conclusion

Muscle spasms can be challenging, but there are multiple treatment options and preventive measures to explore. By understanding the causes and utilizing various remedies, you can find relief from these painful episodes and reduce their frequency. Always consult with a healthcare professional for guidance tailored to your specific condition.