09/27/2018
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF MUSCLE SPASM?
Muscles have tensile strength, which means that they can get stretched to an extent, which makes movement easy. However, in certain cases, if the muscles are stretched beyond their capacity, it can result in small tears or strains. This can cause muscle spasm or tight contraction of the muscle.
When a muscle gets overstretched due to overuse, falls, blows or injuries, it can result in small tears in the muscle. This can cause an inflammatory reaction, resulting in swelling in the area. The muscle, in order to prevent further damage and to protect the surrounding body parts, gets tightened. This results in pain and discomfort when the muscle is used or the part is moved. It actually protects the inner delicate structures as it prevents further movement of the area, so that healing can occur.
Normally, muscle spasm due to overstretching, recovers within few days or weeks. However, if it lasts long, the cause of muscle spasm may be an underlying condition, which needs attention. Serious injuries or conditions affecting the spine or the joints can cause severe or repeated muscle spasm.
