Muscle spasms, or muscle cramps, are sudden and involuntary contractions of one or more muscles. They can strike at any time in any muscle and last from agonising seconds to minutes that feel like an eternity. While highly uncomfortable, muscle spasms are generally not a serious medical condition. However, they can sometimes signal that something isn't quite right in the body.

The good news is that most muscle spasms can be treated at home with simple stretches, hydration, and over-the-counter medication. However, there are times when they persist or seem related to a broader medical issue, in which case it's crucial to seek professional medical evaluation.

For example, some muscle spasms indicate an underlying neurological disorder, like spasticity, a muscle control disorder characterised by involuntary spasms that affects over 12 million people worldwide, including 80% of people with cerebral palsy and multiple sclerosis. Let's understand this condition's causes, diagnosis, treatment, and more.

Causes of Muscle Spasms

Several factors can contribute to the development of muscle spasms, including:

Overexertion or muscle strain: Strenuous physical activity can lead to muscle spasms due to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and muscle fatigue.
Poor blood circulation: Poor blood circulation to the muscles causes muscle spasms, especially in the legs. This may be caused by prolonged sitting or standing and peripheral artery disease.
Mineral deficiencies: Low levels of minerals like potassium, calcium, and magnesium can also lead to muscle spasms.
Dehydration: Insufficient fluid intake leads to electrolyte imbalance, which may lead to muscle cramps.
Medications: Certain medications, such as diuretics, can deplete electrolyte levels and cause muscle spasms as a side effect.
Underlying medical conditions: Conditions like diabetes, kidney disease, thyroid disorders, and neurological problems can contribute to muscle spasms.

Who is at risk?

Following people might be at greater risk of Spasms:

Athletes, especially endurance athletes, have a high lifetime prevalence of exercise-associated muscle cramps (EAMC). The most important risk factors are a previous history of EAMC and performing exercise at a higher relative intensity or duration than normal training, especially in hot and humid conditions.
Older adults, pregnant individuals, and those who are overweight or obese are more susceptible to muscle spasms.
People with certain underlying medical conditions are also more prone to muscle spasms, including:
Neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis (MS), amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and spinal cord compression
Thyroid disorders
Arteriosclerosis (narrowing of the arteries)

Symptoms of Muscle Spasms

The main symptom of a muscle spasm is a sudden, painful tightening or contracting of the affected muscle. It may cause a visible bulge or knot in the muscle. The spasm can last anywhere from a few seconds to 15 minutes or longer. Other symptoms may include:

Visible muscle contractions or twitching
Muscle hardening or bulging
Difficulty moving the affected muscle
Muscle weakness or soreness after the spasm subsides

Diagnosis of Muscle Spasms

Muscle spasms are typically diagnosed based on the individual's medical history, physical examination, and relevant test results. Here are the critical points about diagnosis:

Physical Examination: The PE may be normal if the muscle spasms are absent during the visit. However, it can help detect underlying health issues contributing to muscle spasms.
Blood Tests: These tests are recommended to check for electrolyte imbalances, anaemia, glucose levels, and creatinine levels to rule out underlying conditions like kidney disease.
Electromyography (EMG): EMG may be performed if there is concern about a nerve or muscle disorder, such as muscular dystrophy, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or myopathy.
Thyroid Function Tests: Thyroid function tests may be considered if there is a suspicion of a thyroid-related condition.
Creatine Phosphokinase (CPK) Test: A CPK test can detect muscle breakdown and damage, which may be a concern if muscle spasms are prolonged and ongoing.

Treatment for Muscle Spasms

The treatment of muscle spasms can also be done at home with some simple remedies:

Stretching and massaging the affected muscle: Gently massage and stretch the muscle. It will help to relieve the spasm and promote blood flow.
Applying heat or cold: A warm compress or bath can help relax the muscle, while ice packs can reduce inflammation and pain.
Hydration and electrolyte replenishment: Drinking fluids and consuming electrolyte-rich foods or supplements can help restore the balance of minerals in the body.
Over-the-counter pain medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help inflammation and alleviate pain.

If muscle spasms are severe, frequent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is recommended that you seek medical attention. Visit a healthcare professional who can help identify and treat underlying conditions contributing to the spasms and may prescribe medications or recommend physical therapy to manage the condition.

Preventing Muscle Spasms

Proper hydration in hot and humid conditions reduces the risk of muscle spasms. Additionally, incorporating stretching and cool-down routines into your exercise regimen can help prevent muscle strain and cramps. Maintaining a balanced diet with adequate minerals like potassium, calcium, and magnesium can also help prevent muscle spasms.

While muscle spasms can be uncomfortable, they are generally not indicative of a serious condition. However, if they persist or worsen, seeking medical attention to rule out any underlying issues and receiving appropriate treatment is advisable.

Reference links:

https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/muscle-spasms-muscle-cramps
https://www.webmd.com/brain/ss/slideshow-twitches-spasms-causes
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/muscle-cramp/symptoms-causes/syc-20350820