A muscle spasm is an involuntary contraction of a muscle that usually occurs suddenly and can be very painful. Most of the time muscle spasms resolve quickly and without any treatment, but in some cases they can become a recurring and chronic problem. One of the most common places to develop chronic muscle spasms is in the muscles surrounding the spine, such as in the low back or neck and shoulders. Chronic muscle spasms associated with low back pain can be debilitating and can cause lost work or productivity. There are many potential causes of chronic muscle spasms.
Strain
A muscle strain is the overuse or tearing of muscle fiber that usually occurs in a sudden traumatic way that stretches the muscle too far and too quickly. The damage that occurs from a strain can be minor micro-tearing or can be a full rupture of the muscle and tendon that can require surgical repair. Chronic strains are the results of long-term or repetitive overuse of a muscle. Many athletes experience muscle strains as well as individuals involved in automobile accidents. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, the signs of a muscle strain include pain, muscle spasms, weakness, swelling, inflammation and cramping.
Poor Blood Supply
Muscles require a variety of different inputs to perform a contraction, including glucose, electrolytes and oxygen, all of which are delivered to the muscles by the bloodstream. Several different conditions can cause poor circulation and a reduction in these necessary products, leading to muscle spasm. Atherosclerosis is the fatty buildup in the walls of arteries that causes a decrease in blood flow. According to MayoClinic.com, atherosclerosis or narrowing of the arteries can cause muscles to cramp. In the extremities, muscle cramps are usually brought on by an increase in physical activity when the muscle metabolic activity requires more blood supply.
Disease
Several diseases can cause chronic muscle spasms to develop. Diabetes can lead to disruption of the blood supply in the extremities. Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterized by multiple tender points throughout the body, widespread pain and muscle spasms. Multiple sclerosis and anemia are both conditions that can also cause chronic muscle spasms. It is important to properly diagnose the cause of the muscle spasms in an effort to relieve them.
Nerve Compression
Muscle spasms are a common component of back pain. Spinal nerves can become compressed by a herniated disc or bone spur and can lead to muscle spasms. Each muscle is controlled by a nerve and, when that nerve is compressed, it is unable to convey information back and forth to the muscle properly. This can result in uncontrolled contractions. MedlinePlus, an information service of the National Institutes of Health, lists a pinched nerve in the neck or back as a cause of muscle spasms in these locations, but this can also occur in the extremities.
