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Muscle Spasms, Cramps and Weakness are common, most people have experienced them. These symptoms are relatively normal following overexertion or hard exercise but if they come on suddenly, without explanation, they may indicate nerve damage or a systemic health problem.

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Muscle weakness happens when the muscles don’t respond to the true amount of force that is being used. Muscle weakness can affect a single muscle or be localised to an area of the body, though the size of the area will determine how pronounced the weakness is. A few causes of muscle weakness include:

• Stroke
• Muscular dystrophy
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Nerve injury
• Multiple sclerosis

You should seek emergency treatment for muscle weakness if it comes on suddenly, affects your facial muscles, or inhibits breathing.

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Spasms and cramps occur when muscles inadvertently contract. This often causes pain and discomfort to the area and can temporarily affect mobility. Spasms and cramps are often caused by muscle fatigue due to overexertion. If you are experiencing muscle cramps and spasms without over exerting force on the area, it is important to seek medical attention as this could be an indication of a more serious medical condition, such as:

• Compressed nerves
• Poor blood supply to the nearby muscles
• Inadequate mineral supply
• Autoimmune disorders
• Muscle damage
• Stress

Home treatment for muscle spasms and cramps include hydration, warm and cold compresses and resting the affected area.