From the Guidelines
For home treatment of muscle spasms after a motor vehicle collision (MVC), I recommend taking a hot shower or immersing the affected part in hot water as soon as possible, for at least 20 minutes, or for as long as pain persists, as this is the most direct and simple method to alleviate spasms. The following are key points to consider for home treatment:
- Take a hot shower or immerse the affected part in hot water (temperature as hot as tolerated, or at 45°C if there is the capability to regulate temperature) for at least 20 minutes, or for as long as pain persists, as recommended by the 2010 American Heart Association and American Red Cross International Consensus on First Aid Science with treatment recommendations 1.
- If hot water is not available, dry hot packs or, as a second choice, dry cold packs may also be helpful in decreasing pain 1. It's essential to prioritize treatments that reduce morbidity, mortality, and improve quality of life, and in this case, the most recent and highest quality study is not directly applicable, but the 2010 guideline provides a straightforward recommendation for immediate relief of muscle spasms after an MVC.
From the FDA Drug Label
Cyclobenzaprine hydrochloride tablets are indicated as an adjunct to rest and physical therapy for relief of muscle spasm associated with acute, painful musculoskeletal conditions The following are home treatment options for spasm after MVC:
- Rest: as an adjunct to cyclobenzaprine hydrochloride tablets
- Physical therapy: as an adjunct to cyclobenzaprine hydrochloride tablets 2
From the Research
Home Treatment for Spasm after MVC
- Apply heat or cold packs to the affected area to relieve pain and reduce muscle spasms 3, 4
- Take over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen to help reduce pain and inflammation 5, 6
- Consider taking a muscle relaxant such as cyclobenzaprine to help relieve muscle spasms 3, 4, 5, 6
- Rest and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities to allow the affected area to heal
- Stretching and gentle exercises can help improve range of motion and reduce stiffness, but should be done gently and cautiously to avoid exacerbating the injury
Important Considerations
- It is essential to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment of spasm after a motor vehicle collision (MVC)
- While some studies suggest that cyclobenzaprine can be effective in relieving muscle spasms, it may not be suitable for everyone, especially when combined with other medications such as ibuprofen 5, 6