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Muscle cramps



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Muscle cramps

Definition:

Muscle cramps are involuntary and often painful contractions of the muscles which produce a hard, bulging muscle.

Muscle twitching (fasciculation) is the result of spontaneous local muscle contractions that are involuntary. Typically, these contractions only affect individual muscle groups connected to (innervated by) a particular motor neuron. This twitching does not cause pain.


Alternative Names:
Cramps - muscle
Considerations:


Ordinary muscle cramps are common and may be stopped by stretching the affected muscle.

Muscle twitches are minor and often go unnoticed. Some are common and normal, while others indicate a neurologic disorder.


Common Causes:

Muscle spasms can cause cramps and are usually brought on by the following:

Muscle twitching may lead to cramping and may involve the following:
  • Benign, nonpathologic fasciculations (not caused by disease or disorders)
    • Often affecting the eyelids, calf or thumb
    • Commonly triggered by stress, anxiety
  • Diet deficiency
  • Side effects of drugs, especially diuretics or caffeine

More serious causes of fasciculations -- such as motor neuron disease, muscle diseases, or denervation -- are usually accompanied by weakness and atrophy of the affected muscle group, as well as other signs and symptoms.




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