Muscle Spasms: What Are They and What Causes Them?

Muscle spasms, also known as cramps, are sudden, involuntary contractions of one or more muscle groups. They are often accompanied by severe pain, and can be either short-lived or long-lasting. Muscle spasms can occur for a variety of reasons, and could possibly be a sign of an underlying medical condition.

What Causes Muscle Spasms?

It’s relatively difficult to pinpoint the exact cause of muscle spasms since there can be a variety of triggers. Common causes may be:

• Lack of adequate stretching, either before or after exercise

• Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
Poor circulation or irregular breathing can cause muscle spasms as well, as can muscle strains and specific medical conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, fibromyalgia, or a vitamin deficiency.

Treatment & Prevention

The good news is that there are a few simple ways to help prevent and treat muscle spasms. One is regular stretching, as this can help keep your muscles relaxed. You should also stay hydrated and make sure to replenish electrolytes before, during and after physical activity.

If you suffer from chronic muscle spasms, you may want to talk to your doctor about taking a muscle relaxant. This could be prescribed or over-the-counter. Additionally, using heat therapy or a hot water bottle can help ease the pain, as can taking a warm bath and doing yoga or Pilates.

Conclusion

While muscle spasms can be incredibly painful, the good news is that there are ways to prevent them from happening, or to treat them if they do occur. It’s important to note that if your muscle spasms are persistent or recurring, you should speak to your doctor about possible underlying causes.