What Causes a Muscle Spasm?

Muscle spasm occurs when a muscle involuntary and forcibly contracts and cannot relax. Often the spasm involves part of a number of muscles in a muscle group. The muscle may feel harder than normal to the touch and may appear visibly distorted. The spasm may resolve within a few seconds. muscle-spasm

Muscle spasm commonly occurs in the back, ribcage, thighs, calves, foot arches, and abdomen.

However, if the spasm is the result of a spinal joint injury or muscle tear, it may be intense and take longer to resolve. When an injury occurs, the body takes steps to protect the injured area and spasm can result.

If severe, your entire posture can be affected, it may be hard to stand up straight or to take in a deep breath without severe pain.

Common Causes of Muscle Spasm:

  • Lifting something heavy or bulky incorrectly and / twisting under load
  • Walking with inadequate footwear and support (particularly if you have flattened arches)
  • Exercising after a period of inactivity or while very run down or tired
  • Poor form while exercising or attempting a new type of exercise incorrectly
  • Inadequate stretching before or during physical activity
  • Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
  • Mineral deficiencies such as calcium, magnesium and potassium
  • Walking or exercising shortly after eating a meal
  • Twisting the torso suddenly during exercise

What to do During a Muscle Spasm

  1.  Take a few breaths and remind yourself that this is not permanent (despite the intensity of the pain) and that it will pass.
  2.  Stop the activity. If possible, try to gently stretch and massage the muscle in spasm.
  3.  Apply some warmth/heat to the area.

When to Seek Treatment for Muscle Spasm

If the muscle spasm does not resolve within a short time, call My Toronto Chiropractor to make an appointment. It is not necessary to suffer in pain for days or longer.

Without treatment, muscle spasm can become chronic, scar tissue can develop, and you can lose spinal ranges of motion. Fear of activity can limit your physical fitness, ability to work and well-being. Don’t allow muscle spasm to limit the quality of your life.

Dr. Horowitz will conduct a thorough examination to determine the underlying cause(s) of the muscle spasm and you will receive a proper diagnosis. Treatment options can be discussed.

As a Doctor of Chiropractic, Dr. Horowitz can help alleviate your pain. By determining the cause(s) of the spasm, she can help you to prevent it from recurring.

Treatments Include:

  • Chiropractic adjustments
  • Pulstar mobilization corrects areas of joint, muscle and nerve dysfunction
  • Massage: to reduce muscle spasm
  • Electrical Therapy: Interferential Current to reduce pain and muscle spasm
  • Ultrasound: To reduce scar tissue and accelerate healing
  • Preventive Strategies such as Exercise, Stretching and Dietary recommendations

For help with Muscle Spasm, Call My Toronto Chiropractor Health Clinic at (647) 349-4909 or to ask Dr. Horowitz a question, complete the form below:



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