Physiotherapy for pediatric and geriatric

Here is a clear, useful guide on trunk muscle spasm and the best exercises to relieve and strengthen the trunk. ⸻ ✅ What is Trunk Muscle Spasm? A trunk muscle spasm is a sudden, involuntary tightening of muscles in the: • Lower back • Mid back • Abdomen • Side trunk (obliques) It usually happens due to: • Poor posture • Sudden twisting -lifting • Weak core muscles • Overuse • Neurological conditions (CP, stroke, spinal issues) • Muscle fatigue -dehydration ⸻ ✅ Immediate Relief for Spasm 1. Heat Therapy (10–15 mins) • Hot pack on the affected area • Relaxes tight muscles and reduces pain 2. Gentle Stretching Avoid forceful stretching. Go slow and pain-free. ⸻ 🔹 BEST EXERCISES FOR TRUNK MUSCLE SPASM A. Stretching Exercises (for relaxation) 1. Child’s Pose Stretch • Kneel → Sit back → Stretch arms forward • Hold 20–30 sec × 3 • Relieves lower back & trunk spasm ⸻ 2. Cat–Camel Stretch • On hands & knees • Arch up → drop down slowly • 10–15 repetitions • Reduces stiffness and improves spinal mobility ⸻ 3. Side Trunk Stretch • Stand-sit → Lift one arm overhead → Bend to opposite side • Hold 20 seconds × 3 each side • Good for oblique muscle spasm ⸻ 4. Knee-to-Chest Stretch • Lie on back → Bring knees to chest • Hold 20 seconds • Releases lower back tension ⸻ B. Strengthening Exercises (for prevention & long-term support) 1. Pelvic Tilt • Lie on back → Tighten abdomen → Flatten back • Hold 5 sec × 10–12 reps Strengthens deep core muscles → reduces recurrence of spasm. ⸻ 2. Bridge Exercise • Lie on back → Lift hips • Hold 5 sec × 10 reps Strengthens glutes & lower trunk. ⸻ 3. Trunk Rotation (Gentle) • Lie on back → Knees bent → Move knees side-to-side • 10–15 reps Improves mobility & reduces tightness. ⸻ 4. Side Plank (Beginner version) • Elbow under shoulder • Lift hip slightly • Hold 5–10 sec × 5 reps Excellent for oblique and core stability. ⸻ 5. Bird–Dog • On hands & knees • Lift opposite arm & leg • Hold 3 sec × 10 reps Improves trunk control & reduces spasm frequency. ⸻ 🟦 For Neurological Conditions (CP, Stroke, ASD with tone imbalance) If spasm is due to neurologic causes: • Rhythmic trunk rotation • Weighted deep pressure vest (reduces involuntary spasm) • Slow vestibular input (rocking on therapy ball) • Trunk co-activation exercises on physioball ⸻ ⚠️ When to Be Cautious Seek evaluation if: • Spasm with numbness-tingling • Loss of balance or control • Spasm lasts for 1 week • Post-surgery or spinal injury