Massage Therapy for Muscle Spasms
The body’s muscles are made up of a group of tissues. These muscles are attached to bones and their function is to help the body move. Smooth functioning of the muscles depends on proper integration between motor neurons in the nerves, calcium ions and proteins present in the muscles. When the balance between these factors is off, it results in muscle spasms. Sites which are most commonly affected by muscle spasms are the neck, arms, legs, and back. However, any muscle in the body can undergo a spasm.
Muscle spasms can be identified initially by pain, and then by swelling and soreness. The pain causes temporary loss of movement. Causes of muscle spasms include dehydration, diminished oxygen supply, electrolyte imbalances, and muscle injury. The most common cause of muscle spasms are fatigued muscles, such as after activities requiring extreme exertion.
In treating muscle spasms, massage therapy helps to relax the muscle and improve flexibility. Because massage helps to improve blood and oxygen flow to the body, patients leave feeling fresh and energetic. Treating muscle strain with massage therapy helps to promote healing and decrease the possibility of re-injury.