Muscle spasm

Muscle Spasm

A Muscle Spasm (pronounced: /ˈmʌs.kəl ˈspæz.əm/) is a sudden, involuntary contraction of one or more muscles.

Etymology

The term "Muscle Spasm" is derived from the Latin word "spasmus", which means a sudden, violent, involuntary contraction of a muscle or a group of muscles, attended by pain and interference with function, producing involuntary movement and distortion.

Definition

A muscle spasm, also known as a muscle cramp, is an involuntary contraction of a muscle that can cause a great deal of pain. It is generally harmless and ceases after a few minutes. It is most common in the legs. A muscle spasm can happen in any muscle of the body, including skeletal muscles, like those in the calf, back, thigh, or hand, or smooth muscles, such as those in the digestive tract.

Causes

Muscle spasms can be caused by a variety of conditions, including dehydration, muscle fatigue, and electrolyte abnormalities. It can also be a symptom of conditions affecting the nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis.

Treatment

Treatment for muscle spasms often involves methods to relax the affected muscle. This can include stretching, massage, and medication such as muscle relaxants. In some cases, treating the underlying cause of the muscle spasm can help alleviate it.

Related Terms

• Muscle Cramp
• Muscle Strain
• Muscle Fatigue
• Dehydration
• Multiple Sclerosis

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Muscle spasm
• Wikipedia's article - Muscle spasm

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