Muscle spasms are quite common for a variety of reasons. A hard workout, a bad accident, a chronic disease, and even menstruation can cause involuntary twitching of the muscles or an unbearable tightness all throughout your body, causing great pain and discomfort. Listed below are a few tips, some holistic and others prescribed that will help alleviate the pain and allow for both you and your muscles to relax.
Antioxidants
An antioxidant is a substance that increases oxidation within the body, making it a great natural source used to treat muscle spasms. Antioxidants can be found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, such as goji berries, blackberries, and artichokes. Adding antioxidants to your everyday diet is an easy way to protect your body naturally. Also, strategically eating antioxidants at specific times of the day, such as after a hard workout, will help prevent muscle spasms and reduce inflammation.
Muscle spasms often occur after intense activity, so antioxidants help give your body fuel to repair itself successfully. Drinking a cup of organic cranberry juice or blueberry smoothies after a workout helps to repair your muscles and allows them to relax after a hard run. There have been studies done on both drinks that suggest that these forms of anti-oxidants help accelerate muscle recovery and minimize post-workout pain.
Chamomile
Chamomile is another great natural substance that helps prevent muscle spasms and soreness. This herb contains 36 anti-inflammatory compounds. Whether you are drinking chamomile as a tea or spreading its essential oils on the afflicted areas, chamomile is a great natural resource to help treat muscle spasms.
Vitamin D
When treating people who suffer constant muscle spasms, doctors have found that many suffer from a vitamin D deficiency. Getting regular exposure to sunlight, eating eggs and fish, drinking milk, or taking vitamin supplements are all great ways to increase your daily intake of Vitamin D and prevent muscle spasms.
Foods rich in Vitamin D could help reduce the frequency and severity of your muscle spasms.
Source: va.gov
Medication
Many people prefer to rely on natural remedies when experiencing issues with their bodies. However, depending on the severity of your situation and the frequency you experience muscle spasms, it may be a good idea to discuss with your doctor the variety of muscle spasm medications available.
A few of the most popular and effective medications are Baclofen, Tizanidine HCL, and Methocarbamol. These medications are great treatments for muscle spasms. However, each come with a set of pros and cons, so it is best to talk with your doctor first to find out which is best for you.
