Spasms

5 Causes Of Muscle Spasms & How to Treat Them

A muscle spasm is a sudden, involuntary and often painful contraction of a particular muscle group. Muscle spasms can be caused by anything from strenuous physical activity, dehydration or improper nutrition--to medical conditions such as fibromyalgia, diabetes or multiple sclerosis. In some cases, spasms can lead to injury or long-term musculoskeletal pain.

Below are the five most common causes of muscle spasms and how to effectively treat them:

1. Dehydration

Dehydration is the most common cause of muscle spasms. When your body is severely dehydrated, it may not be getting the necessary electrolytes for the muscles to function correctly. This can lead to a sudden, involuntary contraction of the muscle, known as a cramp or spasm. To reduce the risk of this happening, make sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day, and avoid highly caffeinated or sugary beverages.

2. Lack of Potassium

Potassium helps to control the amount of muscle tension in the body. When levels in the body are low, there may not be enough to allow the muscle to properly relax, resulting in a spasm. Eat potassium-rich foods such as bananas, potatoes, oranges, and leafy greens to help supplement your levels. You can also take a quality potassium supplement.

3. Overuse or Injury

Muscle spasms can be caused by overexertion, trauma, or overuse. If you have recently performed any new activity such as weightlifting or running for the first time, your body may need to adjust to the new physical demands. Therefore, it is important to always start at a comfortable level and increase physical activity slowly. You should also take frequent rest breaks to give your body and muscles time to recover.

4. Poor Posture or Improper Ergonomics

Poor posture and the improper use of furniture such as chairs or desks can cause muscle spasms. When your body is not in a neutral posture, it can start to strain the muscles resulting in cramps or spasms. Make sure to practice good posture by keeping your spine in a neutral position and ensuring that all furniture is optimized for proper ergonomics.

5. Stress

Stress can cause muscles to become tense, resulting in spasms. To help reduce stress-induced spasms, practice meditation or yoga for relaxation. Additionally, be sure to get plenty of rest and exercise. Taking regular walks, swims, or bike rides can help to reduce stress and tension in the body.

How to Treat Muscle Spasms

Once you have identified the cause of your muscle spasms, there is a variety of treatments available. Here are some of the most effective treatments for muscle spasms.

  • Heat or ice therapy to help relax the muscles
  • Light stretching or massage to help relieve tension and reduce spasms
  • Over the counter medications to help reduce inflammation and pain
  • Prescription medications to help relax muscles and reduce pain

If home remedies and OTC medications don’t provide relief, it is advised to consult with a medical professional to discuss medical therapies, such as injections or nerve stimulation. With proper treatment, muscle spasms can be managed and prevented.

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