Muscle cramps, sprains and spasms can be uncomfortable and can occur for a variety of reasons. Depending upon the cause, you may experience muscle spasms at any time. Muscle sprains typically occur from specific injuries. Always consult your physician for appropriate treatment methods.
Muscle Cramps
Muscle cramps and spasms are the same condition, according to MedlinePlus. They are involuntary muscle contractions that can occur due to overusing a muscle or a lack of minerals and blood supply. You can also experience a muscle cramp from dehydration. Muscle cramps or spasms generally occur at night or after working out, but they are very common. They can last just a few seconds or for several minutes, depending upon severity.
Muscle Sprains
Muscle sprains occur when you stretch or tear a ligament, according to MayoClinic.com. Ligaments are what connect one bone to another through the joints. The ankle is the most common sprain than any other sprain. Muscle sprains are more serious than muscle cramps. Sprains are typically accompanied by swelling and bruising and usually limit the mobility of the affected area. Sprains commonly happen while walking on an uneven surface, such as a hiking trail, or while performing athletic activities such as gymnastics or skiing.
Treatment
Gently massaging or relaxing the muscle can help decrease muscle cramps and spasms. Once the muscle spasm has ceased, do not use it for a few minutes. Using the muscle immediately after the spasm has ceased could cause another spasm, especially if it's occurring post workout when the muscle is tired or weak. MayoClinic.com recommends using the P.R.I.C.E approach, which is protection, rest, ice, compression then elevation. Protect the area by wrapping it in an elastic bandage to immobilize the area to prevent further injury. Rest the sprained body part, such as your ankle, by staying off it. Use ice even if you're going to seek medical help to reduce and prevent further swelling. Compression simply refers to wrapping the injured body part to help compress the swelling. Do not wrap it too tightly as you can cut off blood supply. Elevate the injury by propping your ankle up on a pillow or by keeping your wrist elevated. For your wrist, sit near a table or counter and place your wrist on the table or counter to keep it elevated.
Considerations
Consult with your physician if the pain becomes unbearable or if you begin to notice red streaks or begin to run a fever. If you believe you're experiencing muscle cramps due to a lack of nutrition, ask your doctor about taking a multivitamin or vitamin supplement.
