How can he play that well with his back hurting? http://blog.chron.com/ultimaterockets/2013/11/rockets-report-parsons-playing-through-back-spasms/
A back spasm is debilitating when it happens. Otherwise you feel ok. It's not some type of constant pain type of deal. If anything, a guy might be just timid on doing too much with his back to prevent triggering a spasm.
I wonder if his back has anything to do with his defense. Because his defense has been nonexistent. That's probably why McHale has to tell TJ to guard people like Rudy Gay and Melo. Keep building up that trade value Parsons... Lol..
Back spasms are not a consistent thing. When you have them your body feels like you have very little control over it. Pain isn't always the right description though they can certainly be painful. Anyway, once your back is no longer seizing you are fine though you probably feel very tight. You will also be very conscious of it. The spasms can return at any point obviously and end your night.