What causes muscle spasms? There are many factors that can contribute to muscle spasms in the body. Muscles are complex, moving in response to brain signals, chemical reactions and blood flow. Strain or injury to a muscle can cause spasms, as can nutritional deficiencies, dehydration, over-exertion or illness. Treatment for muscle spasms needs to address the cause, which can sometimes be elusive. Taking a well-rounded approach to health and wellness, and supporting the muscles as they heal are beneficial in relieving muscle spasms.

Strains
Repetitive strains, improper posture, awkward twisting or bending or long periods of sitting without taking breaks can cause excess strain on back muscles, resulting in cramping. It is important to support the back with an ergonomic chair when sitting, and to take frequent breaks rather than sitting for hours at a time. Sitting compresses the spine and causes the back muscles to work overtime as they try to support a compressed spinal column. This can cause back cramps, as well as other spinal problems. Be mindful of the strain you are putting on your muscles, even when you're doing something that seems as effortless as sitting.

Injuries
Injury to muscles can occur from over-exertion during exercise or improper lifting. A tear to a muscle can result in a severe cramp that could require surgery to correct. In mild or moderate cases, muscle strains need to be treated with rest, hot and cold therapy, depending on the type of injury, and gentle physical therapy to strengthen the muscle again. Scar tissue forms as muscles heal, which is not as strong as muscle tissue. If you resume regular activity too soon, the injury could get worse and the muscle will not heal properly.

Nutritional Deficiencies or Dehydration
The body needs a good balance of nutrients for the blood’s chemical reactions to work properly. Deficiencies in calcium, potassium, salt, electrolytes or certain vitamins can result in muscle cramps, either because the muscles are starving for nutrients or because the brain lacks the chemical balance needed to control muscles properly. Be sure you are supplying your body with a good balance of vitamins and minerals, even if you supplement. Dehydration can cause muscle spasms, so be sure your water intake is adequate, especially if you are exercising.

Illness and Stress
A suppressed immune system or other illnesses can trigger muscle spasms. Talk to your doctor to find out if your muscle spasms are a result of an illness or other medical causes. Stress can also have an impact on the functioning of the body, because chemicals in the brain are diverted to deal with stress and don’t get to the muscles. Managing stress can help relieve the frequency and intensity of muscle spasms.

Tags: treatment for muscle spasms, what causes muscle spasms