| ENCYCLOPEDIA INDEX |
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Injury Disease Nutrition Poison Symptoms Surgery Test |
| A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z |
Charley horse |
| Overview Symptoms Treatment Prevention |
| Treatment: |
| At the first sign of a muscle spasm, stop your activity and try stretching and massaging the affected muscle. Heat will relax the muscle at first, although ice may be helpful after the initial spasm and pain has improved. If the muscle continues to be sore, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications may help with pain. In more severe cases, your health care provider may prescribe anti-spasm medications.
After initial treatment, the cause of the spasm should be determined to prevent it from recurring. If an irritated nerve is involved, physical therapy or even surgery may be necessary. The most common cause of muscle cramps associated with sports activity is dehydration. Often, rehydration with water or sports drinks will resolve the cramping. |
| Expectations (prognosis): |
| Muscle spasms will resolve with rest and time and the prognosis is excellent for the vast majority of people. Instituting proper training techniques should prevent spasms from becoming a chronic problem. If an irritated nerve caused the spasm, more extensive treatment may be required and results are more variable. |
| Calling your health care provider: |
| If you have a severe muscle spasm with uncontrollable pain, contact your health care provider for assistance. Even if your spasms are not severe, your health care provider can help you modify your exercise program to reduce the risk of spasms occurring in the future. |
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