Chiropractic Care and Muscle Cramps and Spasms
Have you ever woken up in the middle of the night to a muscle cramp or spasm? Muscle cramps and spasms can be quite uncomfortable. Both are known as involuntary contractions of a muscle. Muscle cramps and spasms happen to most of us. Although easy to ignore, chiropractic care can be an effective way to treat them.
Muscle cramps and spasms can be caused by many things such as lack of water, tiredness, electrolyte imbalance, irritated nerves, side effects of a medication, underlying medical issue and muscle imbalance. The spasms are a form of protection.
How Chiropractic Care Treats Cramps And Spasms
A chiropractor will begin by addressing which muscles are involved. For example, cramps on your leg such as your calf, feet and hamstring means that they are being caused by tiredness, dehydration or an imbalance in electrolytes. Cramps on your forearm or hand are being possibly caused by nerve irritation or a disc injury. Lower and mid back can mean a joint sprain. Lastly cramps on muscles close to the spine can be caused by a facet joint sprain.
After the chiropractor addresses which muscles are involved, he or she will decide what kind of adjustment is necessary to keep your body aligned and restore muscle balance. Adjustments can be made on the hip, back, or neck. A chiropractor will also recommend certain exercises to do at home, such as using a foam roller to self-massage your back or neck.
You should also treat your cramps and spasms on your own by making sure to eat healthy, drink lots of water and stretch daily.
If you are experiencing chronic cramps or spasms, or any other form of pain, a chiropractic consultation is always a good decision. To schedule a consultation you can contact us here.