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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Muscle Spasms In The Legs And Hands?

I have muscle spasms which occur during the evening and sometimes wake me. they can be in my shoulders, legs and hands. I have been spasmodic for many years but since during 69, it has become chronic. At the moment, it is in my leg and knee is now swollen.
Mon, 30 Jan 2017
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hello,my name is dr Dorina Gurabardhi.
Spasms of skeletal muscles are most common and are often due to overuse, dehydration, and electrolyte abnormalities. The spasm occurs abruptly, is painful, and is usually short-lived. It may be relieved by gently stretching the muscle.Its important to know when did they begin? How long do they last? How frequently do they occur? Are they rhythmic or more random? Is it always the same muscle group of the body involved?
Other information that is helpful includes whether there have been any recent illnesses or whether any medications have been taken, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, food supplements, and herbal remedies.
Past medical history may give a clue as to the reason for the muscle cramps. These may include a history of diabetes, hypothyroidism, kidney disease, and spinal cord injury.
Prevention is the key to most skeletal muscle spasm episodes. Since they are often associated with dehydration and electrolyte disturbances, it is important to keep the body well hydrated. If the fluid loss is due to an illness with fever or vomiting and diarrhea, controlling the symptoms will help limit fluid loss and prevent spasms. Similarly, for those who work or exercise in a hot environment, drinking enough fluids to keep hydrated is very important. It is often helpful as well to hydrate prior to activities in warm environments.
Further treatment will depend upon the underlying cause of the muscle spasms. For muscles that have been damaged omedications may be required for short-term pain relief, including anti-inflammatories ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin),naproxen
Other medications, including B-complex vitamins, gabapentin and diltiazem.
Anyway if it does not get better you should see a local physician that can evaluate better the treatment.Hope my answer helped you!Thanks!
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What Causes Muscle Spasms In The Legs And Hands?

Hello,my name is dr Dorina Gurabardhi. Spasms of skeletal muscles are most common and are often due to overuse, dehydration, and electrolyte abnormalities. The spasm occurs abruptly, is painful, and is usually short-lived. It may be relieved by gently stretching the muscle.Its important to know when did they begin? How long do they last? How frequently do they occur? Are they rhythmic or more random? Is it always the same muscle group of the body involved? Other information that is helpful includes whether there have been any recent illnesses or whether any medications have been taken, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, food supplements, and herbal remedies. Past medical history may give a clue as to the reason for the muscle cramps. These may include a history of diabetes, hypothyroidism, kidney disease, and spinal cord injury. Prevention is the key to most skeletal muscle spasm episodes. Since they are often associated with dehydration and electrolyte disturbances, it is important to keep the body well hydrated. If the fluid loss is due to an illness with fever or vomiting and diarrhea, controlling the symptoms will help limit fluid loss and prevent spasms. Similarly, for those who work or exercise in a hot environment, drinking enough fluids to keep hydrated is very important. It is often helpful as well to hydrate prior to activities in warm environments. Further treatment will depend upon the underlying cause of the muscle spasms. For muscles that have been damaged omedications may be required for short-term pain relief, including anti-inflammatories ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin),naproxen Other medications, including B-complex vitamins, gabapentin and diltiazem. Anyway if it does not get better you should see a local physician that can evaluate better the treatment.Hope my answer helped you!Thanks!