Muscle spasms are involuntary contractions of one or more muscles that range in intensity, from slight twinges to severe pain. They can also affect different muscles throughout the body and are usually short-lived. To prevent muscle spasms from reoccurring, the friendly chiropractors at Ark-La-Tex Health Center in Texarkana, AR, say you must first determine the underlying cause.

The Leading Causes of Muscle Spasms

1. Dehydration

Dehydration reduces your blood volume, which in turn, reduces the supply of oxygen to the muscles and causes muscle spasms. This is especially common during the summer when working or exercising in hot conditions. You can prevent muscle spasms by drinking plenty of water, or sports drinks with electrolytes, throughout the day.

2. Muscle Fatigue

This can result from overusing a particular muscle or group of muscles, whether it’s at the gym or moving heavy boxes at home. When a muscle is tired, it spasms to avoid tearing. The most effective way to prevent this is by taking a day off in between workouts to allow your muscles time to heal.

3. Improper Stretching

If you don’t stretch before a workout, or hold a stretch for too long, this could be another possible cause of a muscle spasm. Before you jump into any vigorous activity, it’s crucial to properly stretch. Don’t focus on one particular muscle group and try not to hold a stretch for longer than a minute as this can cause them to contract too hard.

If you are suffering from persistent muscle spasms, it’s best to see a chiropractor who can diagnose the cause and recommend an appropriate treatment plan. For the leading chiropractic clinic in Texarkana, AR, turn to the team at Ark-La-Tex Health Center. They treat various ailments from migraines and headaches to back and neck pain. Call (870) 773-7246 today to schedule an appointment with a chiropractor or visit the website for more information about their services.