Muscle cramp

Description

Muscle spasm or muscle cramp. A muscle spasm usually occurs after tough exercising. The affected muscle contracts uncontrollably and will not relax. It can occur in any muscle of the body but usually affects the legs (especially calves), arms and neck. Other causes include dehydration and chemical changes in patient's body which involve abnormal levels of minerals in the blood. Low level of potassium, magnesium and calcium are the most common causes of spasms, but sometimes a cause cannot be found. More rarely muscle spasms can occur if the nerve in the muscle is injured or irritated.

Symptoms

Uncontrollable muscle contractions, pain in muscle, inability to relax muscle, loss of muscle function during spasm, muscle twitching.

Overview

History of disease is being taken and physical examination is being done. Additional analyses are not done normally. If a doctor suspects on chemical alternations in the body of the patient, blood analysis are done. If nerve irritation is suspected, magnetic resonance-MRI of the neck or back is done.

Tests

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Additional analyses

Potassium and calcium levels.

Specialists

General Practice, Internal Medicine, Physical medicine and rehabilitation

Therapy

Stretching and massaging the muscle usually enable the muscle to relax. Rest and better preparation before repeating the exercise may prevent recurrence of the episode. If dehydration is involved, taking of fluids will prevent the recurrence. Sports drinks are usually better for dehydration since they compensate some of the lost minerals in the body. If the spasms continue to occur or are severe, a doctor will examine the biochemistry or look for an irritated nerve.