Muscle Spasms

Muscle pain and spasms can be characterized by spontaneous contractions of the muscle, often caused by irritation of the connecting nerve. These spasms can be painful and short-lived, ranging from a few seconds to a few minutes. Muscle spasms can occur in different types of muscles, including skeletal muscles and smooth muscles within organs. Additionally, dystonias are a specific type of muscle spasm that involve abnormal signaling within the brain, resulting in involuntary muscle contractions and abnormal postures or movements.

There are various causes of muscle spasms. Tired, strained, overused, or previously injured muscles are more susceptible to spasms. Overstretching or prolonged muscle positioning can also contribute to spasms. Muscle cell exhaustion and hyperexcitability can lead to forceful contractions. Other factors that can contribute to muscle spasms include exercising infrequently used muscles, activities such as writing (writer’s cramp), dehydration and electrolyte depletion, atherosclerosis, chronic neck and back pain, and diseases of the nervous system.

Diagnosing muscle spasms involves a medical history assessment and a physical examination. In many cases, muscle spasms can be self-diagnosed and managed at home. However, if the symptoms are persistent and severe, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Your doctor will inquire about the timing, frequency, and location of the spasms, as well as medication use. A physical exam may be performed, even if you are not currently experiencing spasms, to evaluate for underlying conditions.

Depending on the frequency and nature of the spasms, your doctor may recommend specific tests. These can include a complete blood count (CBC) to check for anemia, glucose, creatine, and electrolyte levels, as well as thyroid function. A creatine phosphokinase (CPK) blood test may be ordered to assess muscle damage or breakdown. Electromyography (EMG) can help evaluate for muscle abnormalities, while an ankle-brachial index (ABI) test measures blood flow to the legs by comparing blood pressure in the arms and legs.

Treatment for muscle spasms depends on the underlying diagnosis. If no underlying illness is identified, self-care measures are typically recommended. These may include staying hydrated, resting, and performing stretches during flare-ups. For strained muscles, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen may be suggested. In severe and persistent cases, muscle relaxers may be prescribed. If an underlying condition is discovered, additional testing and appointments may be required to address the specific cause of the muscle spasms.