Muscle spasms are involuntary and forceful muscle contractions that typically come on suddenly and resolve quickly. They can happen because of a variety of causes but usually occur when the muscle is fatigued, improperly used or undernourished. If spasms are persistent, a medical doctor may need to investigate the underlying cause. Otherwise, prevention and other home remedies can be helpful to relieve an acute muscle spasm.
Drink Water
Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances contribute to muscle spasms. For a muscle to contract properly, it needs to have a nutrient balance of water, salt, potassium and calcium. The appropriate intake of the nutrients, along with the right amount of water, can help prevent painful muscle cramps. When cramping is related to exercising in elevated temperatures, water intake is especially important. Drink 8 to 9 cups of water a day, and increase your intake if you are exercising or in a hot climate. If you are thirsty, your body is already dehydrated; drink fluid at regular intervals instead of waiting for your body to tell you that you need water.
Stretch and Massage
Elongating the muscle through stretching can help relieve the spasm instantly. Hold each repetition for 30 to 60 seconds and repeat until the spasm is released, up to five times. Stretching major muscle groups daily after you have warmed up may help prevent future spasms. Self-massaging the area can also help relieve the muscle spasm immediately.
Modalities
Heat can help relieve tension in a tight muscle, and warming up before an activity can help prevent the spasm in the first place. However, ice is appropriate if the muscle is tender or inflamed, and it can provide prolonged pain relief. Place the heat or ice on the affected muscle for 10 to 15 minutes at a time and repeat every hour as needed to provide pain relief.
Medicine
An anti-inflammatory is helpful if the spasm continues to be painful. If an over-the-counter medication is ineffective, your doctor may prescribe a stronger anti-inflammatory or a muscle relaxant. If the spasm is persistent enough to require prescription drugs, there is usually an underlying injury to joints or tissues near the muscle.
