How to Deal With Muscle Spasms in Feet

Muscle spasms are involuntary and are nothing but forced contractions caused in different muscles in the body that do not relax. In some cases, they can also be looked upon as cramps and twitching of the muscles. The spasms last for a brief period, but can be severe and very painful.

Spasms in feet can be referred to as foot or carpopedal spasms. The most common region affected by cramps is the inner arch of the foot and the toes. It is the big toe that is most affected. Muscle spasms can also affect other parts of the leg, like thigh and calf muscles. Here, we'll see the causes and treatment options for spasms in feet.

• Dehydration is said to be one of the most prominent causes of muscle spasms in feet.
• If there is an injury caused to the foot due to certain repetitive motion, it can lead to cramps.
• According to a research, people with flat feet are more prone to cramps as compared to people with arched feet. 

• Hyper-flexible joints in the feet can lead to spasms and twitches as well.
• If the intensity of exercise is increased suddenly, it often increases pressure on the foot, which causes spasms.
• Poor blood circulation, along with low supply of oxygen in the blood, is also one of the causes. 

• Electrolyte imbalance due to low calcium and potassium levels in the body can also lead to cramps.
• Damage caused to a single nerve or nerve group in a particular muscle can trigger spasms.
• Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis can also cause these cramps.

• Altered neuromuscular control may cause the muscle to contract and not release, leading to spasms.
• Very few are aware of the fact that thyroid disorders is also listed as causes of foot cramps.
• Deficiency of Vitamin D can also cause cramps in the feet.

It is mostly seen that muscle spasms go away on their own. However, there are some tips that can help you speed up healing process. The first tip is to stop the activity which has caused the muscle to go into a spasmodic action. Extending the leg and then gently pointing and flexing the feet will help release the contractions.

If possible, you may want to stretch the joint till the cramp subsides. You can also ask someone else to massage the muscle, which will help to release the contraction. An alternative can also be the use of ice packs on the affected area.

If the spasm lasts for a longer period of time, warm water can be used to reduce the soreness. Use of elastic bandage for compression will help in quick healing of the muscle as well.

If the cramps are caused by deficiency, then appropriate supplements can be taken. Calcium and vitamin D supplements are often said to be useful. Since most of us now have a sedentary lifestyle, doing some stretches at regular intervals through the day will prevent the muscles from cramping.

If you are suffering from spasms in your feet very often, then it is recommended that you seek medical advice. The physician will be in a better position to treat you, depending on the cause of the problem. At the same time, it is recommended that you do not self diagnose the condition and treat it.

Disclaimer: This is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.