Preventing a Muscle Spasm

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An involuntary contraction in a muscle is called a spasm.
In most cases it appears without a warning and can be very painful.
In some cases, it may be persistent or recurring.
A spasm or cramp should not be confused with a twitch.
The latter is a fine and uncontrolled movement that affects a small segment of a much larger muscle and is noticeable just underneath the skin.
The symptoms of a cramp are dependent on the muscle that has been affected.
However, all spasms feel like tightness or knot in the affected area.
Preventive Measures It's true that the symptoms take you by surprise but there are things that you can do to keep it at bay.
Overused or overtired muscles are the ones that are more likely to get affected.
Other reasons could be holding a muscle in a particular position for an extended period of time or overstretching it.
Drink plenty of fluids and replace the electrolytes that you have lost through sweating.
The body needs water to work at optimum levels.
They also need glucose, sodium, calcium, potassium and magnesium.
Cramps creep in whenever any of these minerals get depleted.
Bad sitting or standing posture is another one of the causative factors.
Improve your posture when you sit for extended hours at the computer.
This will keep those back, neck and shoulder cramps at bay.
With the sedentary lifestyle we lead, back spasms are becoming very common and maintaining a good posture is one way of ensuring that you do not aggravate the problem.
Treatment Some ailments such as thyroid disease, diabetes, hormonal disorders, kidney disease and anemia might cause a muscle cramp.
It is important that you get treated for these diseases.
Multiple sclerosis and spinal injuries can also cause spasms.
In some cases, certain medications are known to cause them.
Some osteoporosis, asthma and high cholesterol medication may also cause cramps.
If you suffer from frequent, painful cramps, consult a doctor immediately.
There are times when the symptoms can throw you completely out of gear.
Today, you can also go to specialized chiropractic centers that treat musculoskeletal conditions.
There are numerous non-surgical techniques which they use to alleviate pain symptoms.
This can prove to be very useful in case you are suffering from a spasm.
They may also prescribe some mild anti-inflammatory medication that can be taken alongside the treatment.
Muscle relaxants may also be prescribed to ease the strain.
Most of these treatments may be given in combination.
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