What do muscle spasms mean

These might include:. Muscle spasms usually resolve on their own. It might take a few seconds or even several minutes for them to stop, but they do not often need treatment. Drinking plenty of water can help ease dehydration-related muscle cramps. If someone has a painful cramp, they can try a few methods to help ease the symptoms. The American Osteopathic Association recommend:.

If the pain is in the calf muscle, the person can try putting their weight on the affected leg and bending their knee slightly. Doing this will stretch the muscle. If cramping affects the quadriceps — the muscles at the front of the thigh — the person can try holding the foot of the affected leg behind them and gently pulling it up toward their buttocks, keeping the knees together.

In cases where an underlying neurological condition is causing the muscle spasms, doctors may recommend an antispasmodic medicine. Drinking plenty of water and stretching the muscles before any exercise or repetitive movements can help prevent muscle spasms. Some people experience muscle cramps in the legs during the night. Stretching the limbs before bed can help prevent this from occurring.

Muscle spasms, twitches, and cramps are not usually a cause for concern. They are perfectly normal, particularly in athletes and other people who exercise regularly. In some cases, however, they can indicate an underlying health condition, such as multiple sclerosis , thyroid disease , or cirrhosis of the liver.

They may also suggest problems with:. Muscle spasms are very common, and people do not usually need to worry about them. Overexercising, dehydration, and stress are the most common causes. The spasms happen when the muscle suddenly moves involuntarily. Muscle spasms may feel like a slight twitch or a painful cramp, and they can occur in the muscles in any part of the body. Muscle spasms can last just a few seconds or up to several minutes, but they tend to go away on their own without any treatment.

Gently stretching or massaging the affected area or using a heat or ice pack may help. Pregnancy can lead to muscle cramping, especially in the legs, and after giving birth, a weakened core may make you more prone to back spasms as you do things like lift, bend, and twist.

Underlying physical problems. Spinal conditions, such as degenerative disc disease , spinal stenosis , or a herniated disc can all lead a muscle spasm in your back. Rarely, muscle spasms can be the result of a more serious neurological condition. In those cases, however, the muscle spasms that accompany a serious disorder are often repetitive, larger-scale, and accompanied by other serious muscular symptoms, such as weakness, trouble walking, or numbness and tingling. You should see a doctor for muscle spasms if you encounter any of the following situations:.

Muscle spasms that are not resolving on their own with rest, hydration, and proper nutrition. Any other symptoms you are experiencing with your muscle spasms, such as weakness, loss of balance, or mental changes. You will need to consult with a specialist who can help correct the problem that is causing the back spasms in the first place. Occasional muscle spasms can be a normal part of life, but just remember that if they are happening regularly or causing you any pain, you should schedule an appointment with a Southwest Spine and Pain provider for further assessment.

With multiple locations across the state of Utah, the pain management specialists at Southwest Spine and Pain Center are dedicated to helping those who suffer from chronic pain live the life they want to. To schedule an appointment, visit our locations tab! Please always consult your physician before taking any advice learned here or in any other educational medical material.

Skip to main content. George - Medical Center Dr. George - Red Hills Tremonton. They can be painful, and they may last a few seconds to several minutes. Muscle cramps are usually harmless, and they go away after a few minutes. But you should contact your health care provider if the cramps.

You usually don't need treatment for muscle cramps. You may be able to find some relief from cramps by. If another medical problem is causing the cramps, treating that problem will likely help. There are medicines that providers sometimes prescribe to prevent cramps, but they are not always effective and may cause side effects. Talk to your provider about the risks and benefits of medicines.

The information on this site should not be used as a substitute for professional medical care or advice. Contact a health care provider if you have questions about your health. Muscle Cramps Also called: Charley horse. On this page Basics Summary Start Here. Learn More Related Issues Specifics.

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