Muscle spasms can occur anywhere in the body, both in the skeletal muscles (for example, the calf and forearm muscles), and in smooth muscles, such as those in the digestive tract. A more severe form of spasms, called dystonia, affects neurotransmitters. A spasm is an involuntary contraction of the affected muscle, and treatment varies based on the cause and the affected area.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Treating Skeletal Muscle Spasms
Step 1. Drink plenty of fluids and replenish electrolytes when exercising or if you are sick
Many of these spasms are caused by dehydration and electrolyte deficiency. Replenishing lost fluids and nutrients can help prevent, or relieve, muscle spasms
Step 2. Stretch the affected muscle
This way you can break the painful contraction cycle of the spasm and relieve the pain. Muscles that have been injured may need further treatment
Step 3. Apply a warm compress
The heat allows the muscles to relax and eliminate contractions.
Step 4. See a doctor if an injured muscle causes continuous or repeated spasms
Your doctor may prescribe medications including anti-inflammatories, such as ibuprofen or muscle relaxants
Step 5. See a doctor if muscle cramps occur often, last for a long time, or affect other muscles
You will be able to do tests to rule out more serious conditions, including neurological diseases such as multiple sclerosis or blocked arteries
Method 2 of 3: Treating Smooth Muscle Spasms
Step 1. Contact a doctor to determine the cause of severe or recurrent spasms of the digestive tract, urinary tract, or respiratory tract
- Symptoms vary according to the muscles involved. Intestinal spasms can cause acute pain and diarrhea. Urinary tract stones often occur when there are kidney stones and can cause pain, nausea, and vomiting.
- Airway spasms are always a medical emergency, because they can lead to death if not treated promptly by a doctor.
Step 2. Rule out, or cure, bowel problems such as gallbladder stones or tumors
Change your diet and exercise regularly to help relieve bowel spasms caused by irritable bowel syndrome
Step 3. Medicines such as anticholinergic agents can reduce intestinal spasms that do not subside with a change in diet and lifestyle
Step 4. Eject or remove kidney stones to relieve urinary tract spasms
While waiting for the stones to be expelled through the urine, a pain reliever drug is often administered.
