Do you suffer from involuntary muscle contractions in your legs?
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Contrary to what some might think, muscle spasm is a muscle disorder that is distinct from a cramp. Although both are an involuntary contraction of muscle fibres, the two conditions are distinguished primarily by their intensity and duration.
Indeed, a muscle spasm tends to be more sudden and lasts for a more prolonged period, even if the level of pain is similar. And this type of contracture can strike any muscle in your body. However, the region most affected is undoubtedly the leg, at the calf level.
Contractures are also frequently felt in the back or neck. These sensations can affect a muscle, a group of muscles, or part of a muscle.
There are several causes that can trigger a muscle spasm. Among them, we find lack of stretching, dehydration, stress, venous insufficiency, nutritional deficiency, pregnancy or excessive muscular effort.
Certain other pathologies, such as neuralgia or a herniated disc, can also be involved. Whatever the reason, it must be understood that muscle spasm is first and foremost a defence mechanism to protect a muscle from excessive amplitude.
Discover the main types of existing muscle spasms, as well as the treatments offered to you in physiotherapy.
Muscle spasm: They are 3 types of muscles targeted.
As mentioned before, muscle spasm can affect every muscle in your body. This type of contracture also targets 3 main types of muscles. These 3 types of spasms are frequently treated in physiotherapy.
Skeletal muscles spasm: The first to occur more frequently is the spasm of skeletal muscles (striated muscles), which affects the tendons and muscles attached to your skeleton. These muscles are responsible for your body's motor skills and contract frequently to make you perform everyday actions, such as bending your arms.
Smooth muscles spasm: Then there is the spasm of smooth muscles (visceral muscles), which particularly concerns the digestive system, the arteries and the bladder. Indeed, smooth muscles are present in the walls of hollow organs. And unlike skeletal muscles, smooth muscles contract involuntarily. You therefore have no control over their contraction.
Sobbing spasm: Finally, we also find the sobbing spasm, to watch out for in all infants. It is estimated that around 5% of children aged between 6 and 18 months will be affected. If your child has convulsions, cries and has difficulty breathing for a brief moment, even going so far as to lose consciousness, you must consult a health professional. Although this condition is benign, recurrences should nevertheless be avoided.
But these spasm contractions in your legs could be the beginning of the Stiff Person Syndrome?
The Stiff Person Syndrome, also called “Stiff Person Syndrome”, is a rare neurological disease. It affects the central nervous system. Its prevalence is estimated at 1 case in 1 million, mainly among women (they represent 2 cases out of 3). The peak incidence of this pathology is around the age of 45.
Discovered in 1956 by Moersch and Woltman, stiff man syndrome results in muscle stiffness and painful muscle spasms of the boot and limbs. These clinical signs can or will get worse.
This pathology greatly reduces the ability to perform voluntary movements. This disease of stiff men being little known, the diagnosis often takes a long time to be made. There is no cure possible to date. At this stage, we only know how to relieve the symptoms.
What to do in case of muscle spasm? Regardless of your age or lifestyle habits, a muscle spasm can occur at any time and anywhere. Fortunately, the pain never lasts long. If you have it, the first step to take is to stop all physical activity and rest the affected muscle.
Muscle relaxation is very important. In fact, muscles take twice as much energy to relax as to contract. Subsequently, you should consult a physiotherapist, who will be able to suggest stretches adapted to your condition and easy to practice at home.
He will also assess the strength of your muscles and develop strengthening exercises if necessary. Taping and massage therapy can also be used.
During your recovery, please drink plenty of water, as your muscles need water to contract properly. Taking certain nutrients, such as magnesium, may also be necessary in the event of a dietary deficiency.
The use of heat on the affected area is also recommended. Remember, however, that the best way to avoid a muscle spasm is to prevent it. To do this, you need to make sure you stretch well before starting a demanding physical activity.
Warming up your muscles is the key to avoiding straining them. In addition to drinking plenty of water, it can also be beneficial to add electrolytes, which help regulate muscle function and stimulate blood circulation.
Homemade electrolyte drink recipe: This recipe is for four servings, combine the following ingredients in a large pitcher. Before pouring yourself a glass, remember to stir again, as minerals can settle to the bottom.
- 4 cups of pure Mineral water (ideal for controlling the level of minerals in your solution)
- ½ cup lemon or lime juice (or a mixture of both!)
- ¼ cup natural sugar (like honey or maple syrup)
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- For an even more refreshing flavour, add mint leaves, coconut water with no added flavour or sugar, or replace the sugar with a cup of sliced fruit (strawberries, oranges, watermelon, or small berries).
Cramps, what to do? Cramp are not like spasm but can occur too. They are sometime very painful.
Here are some manoeuvres that can provide relief when cramps occur:
- Gently stretch the sore muscle;
- Lie on your back and raise your legs in the air;
- Walk or move your legs or feet;
- Apply hot or cold to the painful area
Consult a physiotherapist to get other valuable advice according to your needs!