Muscle Spasms Treatment
A muscle spasm is an involuntary contraction of the muscle or a feeling of muscle tightness that usually occurs suddenly and typically does not last long. Muscle spasms can occur in just about any muscle in the body and may arise from trauma, poor blood circulation, or overuse, among other contributors. If caused by an injury, muscle spasms may turn into knots or myofascial trigger points if not treated, which are painful and long-lasting.
What causes muscle spasms?
Muscle spasms may be caused by overuse (performing the same activity over and over), overstretching of the muscle, or body fatigue and are more likely to occur in warm weather environments. Dehydration and a depletion of electrolytes can also cause muscle spasms along with thyroid conditions, spinal cord injuries, and diseases like diabetes, multiple sclerosis, kidney disease, or anemia.
When should I seek muscle spasm treatment?
Usually, muscle spasms will resolve themselves quickly without causing lasting pain or damage. Recurring muscle spasms however, may be long-lasting and can cause severe pain if not treated. If you believe your muscle spasms to be caused by an injury, it’s a good idea to seek treatment as soon as possible so that the spasms do not result in muscle knots.
How can physical therapy help with muscle spasms?
Physical therapy can help to control muscle spasms by finding the source of the spasm and working to correct the cause through specialized treatment techniques and custom exercises. Your physical therapist may instruct you to perform gentle stretching exercises prior to engaging in your regular activities as a way to prevent future muscle spasms. They may also include treatment techniques such as:
• Postural Education to modify daily behaviors and faulty body mechanics that may be contributing to your symptoms.
• Manual therapy including soft tissue work, joint mobilizations, and stretches to help reduce symptoms and minimize pain.
• Strengthening exercises to target any weakened muscles or muscle imbalances that may be causing your muscle spasms.
Physical therapists can provide the necessary tools to treat muscle spasms, allowing you to return to your favorite activities pain-free and better than ever! To learn more about muscle spasms or to eliminate any current discomfort, book a physical therapy assessment today.
Request an Appointment“My therapist was quickly able to isolate the issue causing muscle spasms in my lower back. The treatment provided immediate relief and the exercises helped me recover fully within a few weeks.”
Our Locations
2701 Airline Dr Suite L
Metairie, LA 70001
Phone: (504) 475-1840
Email: hello@therapydianola.com
