Overview
Muscle spasm, also known as muscle cramps is an involuntary contraction of muscles in the body. This is often painful due to the abnormality of the muscle contraction. These sudden contractions are usually as response to muscle overexertion, dehydration, and fatigue. There are many different types of muscles that are affected by spasm. In this case, the spasms affecting the skeletal muscles are the most common. Pain due to muscle spasms can occur due to risk factors such as the presence of peripheral artery disease, underlying neurological conditions, occupation, intense sports activities, smoking, alcohol consumption and environmental factors such as cold weather. Pain due to muscle spasms is mostly last for a short duration as they are usually relieved by painkillers, muscles stretching, massages, rest, cold compressions and rehydration. However, if the muscles spasm are not resolved and frequent recurrence persist, medical attention should be given to identify the cause of spasm.
