Do you ever feel sudden muscle tightening or painful muscle cramps? This condition is referred to as a Muscle Spasm, and it can affect the Calves, Thighs, Feet, Hands, or Abdomen at any time. Understanding the symptoms and causes will help you, how to stop a Muscle Spasm instantly. In this article, we’ll discuss the treatment, prevention, and remedies for Muscle spasms so that you can rid them easily.
Symptoms of muscle spasms
The most common symptoms of Muscle spasms are sudden muscle contraction and feels very painful for a while. When muscle spasms occur, the muscle becomes visibly tight and hard. It will affect for movement of the body. Making difficulties for the movement, it allows a limited range of motion. During the muscle spasms, movements of tiny lumps or muscles under the skin are clearly visible. You can say a temporary paralysis feeling for a certain period of time. After the Spasm, the muscle inflammation may appear in the affected area.
Causes of muscle cramps
Not all people have the same cause of muscle cramps, different factors can be a reason for your cramps. Let’s discuss all of them:
1. Poor Circulation
Abnormal blood flow in the muscles can cause cramps during heavy physical activity or at night. Sitting in one position for a long time can also lead to muscle cramps.
2. Nerve Compression
Cramps can occur due to compression of nerves in the spine or other areas. This type of muscle spasm needs more attention as compared to others. Because it can cause a Herniated disc or Neuropathy in the future.
3. Medications
Some medicines like Diuretics (used for blood pressure), Statins (for cholesterol), Beta-agonists (asthma medications) have side effects of muscle spasms if you exceed the recommended dose.
4. Pregnancy
Pregnant women experience muscle spasms in their second and third trimesters. Due to hormonal changes, rapid blood flow in their body, and certain Weight gain.
5. Health condition
If you also have Diabetes, thyroid issues, and kidney disease, then it can cause muscle spasms. Taking a healthy diet and proper medication for this disease can reduce the chances of cramps.
6. Dehydration
When your body is dehydrated, it affects the balance of sodium, potassium, calcium, and magnesium in the body. These minerals work for the proper movement of muscles. In this scenario, muscle cramps will occur for a while. You can dehydrate for hot weather, stress, workload, excessive exercise, or due to illness. To stop a Muscle Spasm and also dehydration, supply your body sufficient amount of water daily.
How long does it take for muscle spasms to go away?
Generally, muscle spasms last for a few seconds. But according to the severity, the duration varies. Let’s see below.
| Severity | Duration |
| Mild cramps | 10–30 seconds |
| Moderate cramps | 1–3 minutes |
| Severe or deep spasms | Up to 10–15 minutes |
| Post-cramp soreness | Hours or even a full day |
If the spasm doesn’t go away after 15 minutes or happens repeatedly, it’s better to consult a doctor as soon as possible.
Treatment for How To Stop a Muscle Spasm Easily?
Some muscle cramps are harmless and automatically go away. If you experience repeatable cramps, then do some prevention and treatment. Such as:
- When you experience cramps, stop what you are doing and gently stretch the affected area whenever the spasm eases.
- Massage in a circular way on the tight area to normalize blood flow, which helps to relax.
- You can apply an ice pack or a heat pad to the tight area to reduce inflammation and loosen the tight muscles.
- Try to move and stretch to rid the cramp quickly.
- Stay hydrated all the time, which is a powerful prevention method to treat muscle spasms.
- Acetaminophen can be used for post-spasm pain relief in a prescribed amount. But it cant be able to reduce inflammation, so take it after a doctor’s prescription.
Vitamins for muscle cramps and spasms
Muscle cramps can also arise due to a vitamin deficiency. Adding some nutrients and minerals to the daily diet can reduce muscle cramps. Let’s discuss the best supplements for muscle spasms:-
1. Magnesium
Magnesium deficiency in the body has a red alert for muscle spasms. Because it is responsible for muscle relaxation and nerve function. Its deficiency can cause muscle spasms. Almonds, Spinach, Avocados, and Dark chocolate are rich in Magnesium. You can add it to your diet.
2. Potassium
Potassium contains electrolytes that help to relax muscle contractions and pass nervous signals. Potassium deficiency can lead to serious cramps and muscle weakness. So take these Bananas, Oranges, Potatoes, and Yogurt, rich in Potassium supplements, to avoid muscle spasms.
3. Calcium
Calcium is the powerhouse for the movement of muscles and blood vessels for proper blood flow in the body. Calcium deficiency can affect blood flow & muscle movement, which can lead to muscle cramps. Therefore, add Dairy products, Leafy greens, and Fortified plant-based milk to fulfill the calcium supply in the body.
After all these prevention methods and treatments, if the result of stopping muscle spasms does not come as expected, then go for a doctor’s consultation. Do not take any medicines without consultation, to avoid harmful side effects.
Frequently Asked Questions(FAQs)
How to stop leg cramps immediately
To get rid of muscle cramps in the legs, massage and stretch the legs. Toes are the CNS(central nervous system) points. So pull it back. You can also apply heat or ice to relax the muscles. Try to move slowly and shake your legs to rid the cramp.
Neurological disorders that cause muscle cramps
Some neurological disorders like nerve damage, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), Multiple Sclerosis (MS), Peripheral Neuropathy, Parkinson’s Disease, and spinal cord disorders can cause severe and long-term cramps. If you notice any neurological symptoms along with muscle cramps, immediately consult with a doctor to avoid any risks.