Seizures are sudden, uncontrolled electrical disturbances in the brain caused by various factors, including neurological disorders like epilepsy, brain trauma, and stroke. They can cause changes in behavior, movements, feelings, and levels of consciousness. Having a seizure can be an intense and physically taxing experience, sometimes leading to additional physical consequences, such as back pain.
Dr. Gurneet Singh Sawhney, a renowned neurosurgeon in Mumbai, explains:
“Back pain after a seizure often results from muscular strain or spasms as the body involuntarily tightens. While the pain is usually temporary, lasting from a few hours to a few days, it can be an unexpected and distressing experience. By being informed, patients can better navigate their recovery and seek appropriate medical care when necessary.”
In this blog, we shall shed light on the link between back pain and seizures, duration, and preventive measures to help patients manage and alleviate discomfort.
Let’s break down the primary reasons behind this issue.
Causes of back pain after a seizure
Here are the reasons why the back hurts after a seizure:
- During a seizure, intense and sustained muscle contractions can strain the back muscles, leading to pain.
- Rapid, uncontrollable movements during a seizure can cause mechanical stress on the spine and supporting muscles.
- Patients often fall during seizures, which can result in direct trauma to the back, causing bruises or injuries to the vertebrae.
- Maintaining abnormal or strained positions during a seizure can stress the back’s muscles and ligaments.
- The body’s natural stress response to a seizure can tighten muscle groups, including those in the back, leading to soreness or pain after the event.
Are you or a loved one experiencing back pain after a seizure? Please consult a neurosurgeon who can help identify the underlying causes and recommend effective treatments.
Wondering how often this occurs? Here’s what the research says.
How common is back pain after a seizure?
Back pain after a seizure is relatively common, affecting many individuals who experience convulsions. Studies suggest that a significant percentage of seizure patients report some degree of back discomfort. The prevalence can vary depending on the nature of the seizure and the individual’s physical condition.
During a seizure, intense and involuntary muscle contractions can strain the back muscles and spinal structures, leading to discomfort or pain. Individuals with a history of seizures may experience this symptom more frequently, especially if their seizures involve significant physical activity or convulsions.
Concerned about the duration of the pain? Let’s discuss the typical timeline.
How long does back pain last after a seizure?
The duration of back pain after a seizure can vary depending on several factors, including:
- The intensity of the seizure
- The extent of the physical strain
- The nature of the movements involved
- The individual’s overall health
If the back pain is solely due to muscle strain from the seizure, it might last from a few hours to a couple of days as the muscles recover. However, if the pain results from a more serious injury, such as a spinal injury, fracture, or nerve compression, it could last for weeks or even longer.
Are you concerned about persistent back pain after a seizure? Please seek prompt medical evaluation to help determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
Thinking about prevention? Here’s what you can do.
Preventive measures to avoid back pain after a seizure
To prevent back pain after a seizure, consider these proactive measures:
- Keep your body hydrated to help muscles function properly and reduce cramping, which can contribute to back pain.
- Engage in regular exercises that strengthen the back and core muscles. This improves overall posture and reduces the risk of muscle strains.
- Arrange your living and working spaces to minimize injury during a seizure, such as padding sharp corners and avoiding hard surfaces.
- Adhere strictly to treatment plans prescribed by your healthcare provider to control and potentially reduce seizure frequency.
- If falls during seizures are frequent, wear protective padding or a helmet to prevent injuries that can lead to back pain.
- Consistently monitor and manage your seizure disorder with the help of a healthcare provider. This approach can potentially reduce the frequency and intensity of seizures, thereby decreasing the risk of associated back pain.
Knowing when to seek help is crucial, so let’s look at the key indicators.
When to consult a doctor?
You must consult a doctor for back pain after a seizure if:
- You are experiencing intense or severe back pain after seizure
- It does not improve within a few days or worsens over time
- The pain is intense enough to limit your mobility or disrupt your daily activities
- You experience additional symptoms such as numbness, tingling, or weakness in the legs
- There is a pre-existing condition that the seizure might aggravate
- Back pain becomes a recurrent issue after each seizure
- If you suspect any injuries or fractures resulting from a fall during a seizure
Conclusion
Seizures can cause intense muscle contractions and jerking movements, leading to various types of physical strain and injury. While back pain after a seizure can be a concerning and uncomfortable experience, it is also a manageable condition. Recognizing when to seek medical attention can significantly aid in managing and preventing this issue.
Remember, you can minimize the risk of back pain and enhance your well-being by:
- Maintaining a safe environment
- Strengthening your body
- Adhering to prescribed seizure management plans
Do you or a loved one experience persistent or severe back pain following a seizure? It is crucial to consult a certified neurosurgeon to ensure appropriate care and to address any potential underlying issues.
Dr. Gurneet Singh Sawhney, a highly trusted name for epilepsy surgery in Mumbai, cautions:
“If it’s their first seizure or the seizure lasts more than 5 minutes, call emergency services. Also, seek immediate help if there is any difficulty breathing, injury, or if they have a known health condition like diabetes or heart disease.”
FAQ
Can seizures be cured permanently?
Seizures can’t always be cured permanently, but they can often be managed effectively with medication and lifestyle changes. Some individuals may achieve long-term seizure control or remission.
How many days after a seizure do you feel normal?
Most people start feeling normal within a few hours to a couple of days after a seizure. Recovery time can vary depending on the individual and the severity of the seizure.
What should I do immediately after the seizure ends?
After the seizure, the person might be tired or confused. Ensure they are in a safe, comfortable space, and explain what happened in a calm and reassuring manner. Do not give them anything to eat or drink until they are fully alert and, if required, seek medical advice for further assessment.
How can I help someone with epilepsy feel more secure about potential seizures when they are with me?
Learn about their seizure action plan and ask them how they prefer to be assisted during a seizure. Being knowledgeable about their medication schedule, emergency contacts, and warning signs can also help them feel more secure.