Muscle spasms

Muscle spasms: when the muscle temporarily loses its normal control 

A muscle spasm is an involuntary, sudden, and usually painful contraction of a muscle.  It occurs when muscle fibers are activated without the person's control, creating a sensation of being “locked,” pulled, or a tightening of the area.

The muscle requires proper communication between the nervous system and the muscle fibers to contract and relax adequately. When there is a disturbance in this communication, a sustained contraction can occur.

Why can muscle spasms occur? 

Spasms can occur due to various factors, including: 

• Muscle overload 

• Fatigue after intense exertion 

• Lack of recovery 

• Repetitive movements 

• Abrupt changes in activity 

• Alterations in joint mobility 

• Stress and increased tension of the nervous system 

They can also be related to factors such as dehydration, mineral imbalances, or certain medical conditions, which is why it is always important to assess each individual's context. 

What happens inside the muscle? 

When a muscle is subjected to excessive demand or maintains a prolonged state of activation, the balance between contraction and relaxation can be disrupted. 

This can lead to: 

• Increased muscle tone 

• Sensation of stiffness 

• Localized pain 

• Limitation of movement 

• Sensitivity to touch in the area 

The muscle enters a protective state where it maintains more activity than necessary.

 Difference between spasm and contracture 

Although they may seem similar: 

• A spasm is typically a more sudden, involuntary contraction. 

• A contracture is usually a sustained muscle tension related to overload or movement dysfunctions. 

Both can cause pain and limit muscle function.

The relationship between muscle and the nervous system 

The nervous system constantly regulates muscle activity. 

When there is physical stress, lack of rest, sustained pain, or an area that the body perceives as vulnerable, muscle activation can increase as a protective mechanism.

Physiotherapy treatment 

The goal of physiotherapy is to reduce overload, restore mobility, and improve the muscle's capacity to function correctly again. 

It may include: 

• Manual therapy 

• Radiofrequency / diathermy 

• Deep dry needling 

• Invasive Therapies: EPTE / Neuromodulation.