Muscle Spasms

A muscle spasm is a sudden and involuntary contraction of one or more muscles that feels like tightness in the muscles. A spasm most commonly results from an abnormal muscle contraction that causes pain. Spasms can develop in any muscles including the intrinsic hand muscles of a musician and calf muscles of a runner. In addition to this, muscle spasms can also involve skeletal muscles of the spine and limbs or smooth muscle lining the tubular internal organs and smooth muscles of the body. Skeletal muscle spasms are typically caused because of muscle overuse, repetitive trauma or injury. It may occur if an athlete has not warmed up prior to vigorous exercising, jumping or sprinting. A spasm may also occur during high endurance training when the fluid and electrolyte balance of the body is not maintained. These types of spasms usually resolve with gentle stretching hydration and rest. However, if the spasm is chronic, it may signify an underlying medical condition or cause.

Chiropractic approach for muscle spasms

If you are experiencing a tick in the muscle, twitching or low intensity of cramping, it could quite likely be a muscle spasm. Other common symptoms of muscle spam are muscle fatigue, a sudden unpleasant and sharp sensation, tightening and severe pain in the muscle. There are different causes of muscle spasms, including prolonged or excessive exercise. Typically, Chiropractors treat muscle spasms related to the spine. In many of these cases the underlying spasm is caused by joint dysfunction. When joints are not functioning properly over a long period of time the muscles of the spine have to work harder to move those joints. Over time they get tight, irritated and a spasm sets in.

Joint and soft tissue manipulation

The most common chiropractic treatment for muscle spasm is joint manipulation. Joint manipulation allows the spine and joints to restore normal motion, decreasing muscle spasms and reducing pain.

Another common technique for treating muscle spasms is soft tissue manipulation, including massage therapy and therapeutic stretching. The purpose of this type of treatment is to help provide relief for muscle spasms, decrease scar tissue and reduce fluid. The chiropractor may also use associated therapies for treating muscle spasms. The treatment includes electrical stimulation of the affected muscle or hot and cold treatments. The therapies help in increasing circulation to the muscle and prevent scarring and swelling of the muscles. Associated therapies are also a means for prevention of injury recurrences, further injury and reduce pain. Though, the ultimate goal is to relieve the muscle spasms. Chiropractors also often recommend stretching moves and strength training to help promote faster healing. However, it is important to be regular with the exercises.

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