Which interventions could help relieve muscle spasms in a client with a lumbar vertebral fracture?

Heat and muscle relaxers are effective interventions for relieving muscle spasms, especially in the context of a lumbar vertebral fracture. Heat therapy can help increase blood flow to the affected area, which enhances circulation, relaxes tense muscles, and promotes healing. A warm compress or heating pad can provide comfort and alleviate the discomfort associated with muscle spasms.

Muscle relaxers, which are medications specifically designed to reduce muscle tension and spasms, can further assist in relieving pain and improving range of motion. These medications work by acting on the central nervous system to relax tight muscles, making them particularly beneficial for someone experiencing spasms related to an injury like a lumbar fracture.

While cold compresses may reduce inflammation and numb acute pain, they are not as effective for muscle spasms as heat. Moreover, inactivity generally leads to stiffness and can worsen muscle tension. Surgical interventions and immobilization may be necessary for severe injuries, but they do not directly address the immediate issue of muscle spasms. Lastly, while meditation and deep breathing can be useful in managing pain and stress, they do not specifically target muscle spasms in the same way that heat and muscle relaxers do.