Monday, October 31, 2011

Stop Neck Muscle Spasms With Fibromyalgia

While neck spasms can happen to anyone, they are more likely for sufferers of Fibromyalgia because of the common occurrence of muscle spasms as a symptom of the disorder. Neck spasms are treatable, however, with a combination of posture, stretching, physical and massage therapy, heat and supplements. With a number of tools at your disposal, neck muscle spasms related to fibromyalgia can be stopped quickly and prevented.


Instructions


Fix Immediate Pain


1. Apply heat to the neck using a heat compress or heating pad, or by taking a hot bath if possible, to stop neck spasms that have just started.


2. Cover the neck and shoulders with a scarf, shawl or coat to keep the area from getting cold, as cold frequently stimulates muscle spasms.


3. Stretch the area affected by neck spasms, and massage the area gently to alleviate sharp tension.


4. Apply a topical medication containing Methyl Sulfonyl Methane (MSM), or take MSM orally as a supplement.








5. Meet with a physical therapist or massage therapist for a massage and ultrasound treatment to stimulate the muscles with deep heat and offer immediate relief.


Prevent Neck Spasms


6. Fix bad posture when sitting and standing. Poor posture can strain the neck and result in neck spasms from the physical stress and imbalance of the muscles. Eliminate emotional stressors by trying to relax, breathe deeply and focus on releasing the tension in your body.


7. Eat a good breakfast and lunch high in protein, since neck spasms often result from low blood sugar in the morning or late in the afternoon.


8. Lie down for a rest in the morning and afternoon for 15 minutes, if possible, to relieve tension.


9. Use lumbar cushions when sitting to alleviate widespread pain from Fibromyalgia while also improving posture and reducing muscle tension in the back, shoulders and neck.


10. Stretch the neck and shoulders. This should be done at least twice daily to prevent neck spasms, but can be done in the morning and before bed, as well as whenever the muscles feel tight during the day.

Tags: neck spasms, neck spasms, muscle spasms, neck shoulders, therapist massage