Managing SI joint muscle spasms with spondylitis can be really tough, but there are several approaches that may help ease the pain and stiffness.
Heat & Cold Therapy
- Apply ice packs for 15–20 minute intervals during a flare, with 15–20 minute breaks in between
- After about a week, switch to heat — a heating pad or hot Show Full Answer
Managing SI joint muscle spasms with spondylitis can be really tough, but there are several approaches that may help ease the pain and stiffness.
Heat & Cold Therapy
- Apply ice packs for 15–20 minute intervals during a flare, with 15–20 minute breaks in between
- After about a week, switch to heat — a heating pad or hot water bottle for at least 15 minutes (never more than 2 hours)
- Always keep a layer of cloth between your skin and the heat source
- A warm bath with Epsom salts (which contain magnesium) can soothe muscle and joint aches — one MySpondylitisTeam member swears by adding 1 cup of Epsom salt plus 1 cup of vinegar to a hot bath
On the magnesium foot soak question — while there's no specific clinical evidence cited for foot soaks targeting SI joints, Epsom salt soaks are widely used by MySpondylitisTeam members for general muscle and joint relief. It's worth trying, and it's low-risk!
Other Spasm Relief Options
- Gentle stretching (especially before getting up)
- Massage or pressure point therapy
- Acupuncture
- Topical pain relief gels like Biofreeze
- CBD creams (though evidence is still limited)
- Meditation and relaxation techniques Getting Dressed, Using the Toilet & Showering
Daily tasks can feel like an Olympic sport on bad days. Here are some practical tips:
*Getting Dressed*
- Lay clothes out the night before to save energy
- Use a long-handled dressing aid or sock aid to avoid bending
- Choose loose, easy-to-fasten clothing (elastic waistbands are your friend)
- Sit down to dress whenever possible
*Toilet*
- A raised toilet seat or grab bars can reduce strain on the SI joints
- Take your time — rushing increases the risk of painful movements
- A toilet frame/support rail gives you something to push up from
*Showering*
- A shower chair or bench removes the need to stand the whole time
- A long-handled sponge or brush reduces bending and twisting
- Grab bars in the shower are a worthwhile investment
- A handheld showerhead gives you much more flexibility
A physical therapist can also assess your specific movement challenges and suggest personalized adaptations. It's worth asking your doctor for a referral if you haven't already.
21 hours ago
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