Muscle Spasms in Arm

Muscle spasm is the involuntary contraction of muscles that is often painful. Muscle spasm can mostly occur in the back, arm, shoulder and leg. Muscle spasms can be of different types and there are several causes that can result in a muscle spasm. What causes muscle spasm in the arm? Let us have a look. Read more on muscle pain.

Causes of Muscle Spasms in Arm
One of the major causes of muscle spasms can be improper functioning of the motor-neurons. Also if the released calcium ions do not get reabsorbed, they can lead to muscle spasms. The following are the other reasons for involuntary muscle spasms in arm.

Muscle Injury: Any injury to muscle due to accident or other causes can also result in muscle spasms. Sedentary lifestyle, where a person does not make use of his muscles, can also cause spasms in muscles.

Strenuous Exercise: It is the most common cause of muscle spasms in arm. Excess stress, exercise and fatigue can result in muscle spasms in arms and hands. Muscle spasms is most likely to occur in people who are not used to daily strenuous exercise. Our body gives out signals when the body is fatigued and one must remember that it is the time to rest.

Dehydration: Dehydration, i.e, loss of body fluids and salts can also result in muscle spasms. Sweating profusely due to any activity or exercise can lead to dehydration, consequently causing muscle spasm. Especially in higher temperature, there can be loss of sodium, potassium and calcium form the body due to excessive sweating. The body cannot recover immediately from this and hence leads to muscle spasms.

Apart from these, poor supply of oxygen and myotonia can also lead to muscle spasms in arms. In women, menstruation can also cause muscle spasms. Performing any unusual activity or twist in arm during sport are also one of the many reasons for muscle spasms in arm. Sometimes serious reasons like cerebral palsy, or nerve damage can also cause muscle spasms in arms. Contracture is the permanent muscle shortening that results from nerve damage.

Symptoms of Muscle Spasms in Arm
The symptoms of muscle spasms can vary according to the different causes. Sometimes it is sudden and it comes and goes. Sometimes it lasts for few minutes or sometimes even for days and weeks. The most common symptoms include swelling, pain, rigid tightness, and sudden muscle contractions in the affected area. If it is left untreated, one may experience constant muscle spasms in arm.

Treatment of Muscle Spasms in Arm
The root cause of muscle spasm has to be determined before going for any treatment. The advanced techniques like CT scan or MRI helps in finding the cause of muscle spasms. In serious cases, surgery may be essential whereas in mild cases, pain killers or injections may also help. Non surgical treatments like acupuncture or acupressure is also helpful sometimes for treating muscle spasms. Natural muscle relaxants like chamomile and valerian also helps in relieving muscle pain. Read more on muscle pain relief.

Prevention of Muscle Spasms in Arm
There are certain preventive measures that a person can undertake for the prevention of muscle spasms. Having a healthy diet is a must for building energy for the muscles. It is also advised that one must exercise only under the observation or consultation of a trainer. Dehydration can be avoided by drinking adequate amounts of water, especially in summer and after exercise. Deep breathing can help if muscle spasms are caused due to poor supply of oxygen.

Read more on:

• Muscle Spasms in Neck
• Muscle Spasms in Back

One should remember that muscle spasms in arm can be treated. If left untreated, it can become a permanent condition. Therefore, one must not ignore it. You should consult your doctor and seek treatment as soon as possible.