Muscle Spasms and Cramps

You have probably experienced a muscle spasm or cramp, they aren’t fun.  Typically painful, a spasm is an involuntary contraction.  The pain can usually be relieved temporarily by massaging the area.  There are a variety of muscles that can spasm and a variety of reasons that can cause the response.  It often occurs after injuries.  If you have muscle spasms after an injury and don’t have them treated they can progress into muscle knots within two weeks of the initial injury.  Dehydration and muscle fatigue can also lead to muscle spasms.

You may experience a spasm if a muscle is stretched too far or torn, the inflammation can trigger spasms.  The back is particularly prone to this, we often see people experiencing severe lower back pain from damage to the muscles or ligaments in the lower back.  Pulled muscles typically result in inflammation which often leads to spasms and muscle knotting, leaving the lower back painful and stiff.

Lifting heavy objects, especially if you are twisting while lifting, falling, even sudden movements can cause an injury to the muscles in your back.  Always lift heavy objects with a partner and keep good posture to reduce the stress you are putting on your back.  Remember that your body is resilient but not impervious.  

Tears to the muscles typically heal over time, your body is constantly working to repair and protect areas.  Sometimes the steps your body takes can cause even more damage though.  If you damage a muscle often your body responds by tensing the muscles around the injured area to help keep it protected from further damage. These tensed areas can become fatigued in their turn and become more prone to injury.

Often people experience spasms if they push themselves too hard when exercising. If you are overworking an area you may bring on cramps or spasms in that area.  If you try to push your stretches too far too quickly you may also experience this issue, your muscles can develop more flexibility and range of motion over time but you can’t force them to stretch beyond their capacity without opening yourself up to injury.

If you are dehydrated you are neglecting your body.  Be sure to care for yourself and stay hydrated.  You are stressing your body if you aren’t providing the nutrients and water needed to maintain yourself.  Your muscles may respond by over-excitement, irritation, and contractions, opening the door for more serious and long term issues.  

If your body continues to spasm or cramp your muscles are actually wearing themselves down and raising the risk of injury.  If you are experiencing more than the occasional cramp or spasm you need to consult a professional.  Schedule a time to speak to Dr. Elsey and go over your symptoms so we can help you begin to heal!