Medical

Desk Job Woes: How To Stop Muscle Twitching

Are you someone who is suffering from muscle twitching because of your job and lifestyle? Learn practical tips and easy-to-follow advice to help reduce discomfort and prevent further pain.

By URLife Team

31 Jan 2023

Muscle twitching is something that most people can relate to, regardless of what kind of lifestyle they lead. It occurs when a muscle or group of muscles contract and release rapidly, leading to minor spasms. It is not typically a cause for concern , but it can indicate underlying issues such as stress, fatigue, or mineral deficiencies. In this article, we will discuss ways to prevent muscle twitching.

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Possible Causes of Muscle Twitching

Muscle twitching can be caused by a variety of factors, including:

Engaging in vigorous physical activity, which can lead to lactic acid buildup in the muscles and cause twitching in the arms, legs, and back.
High levels of stress and anxiety, which can manifest as a "nervous tic" affecting any muscle in the body.
Dehydration, which can cause muscle contraction and twitching, especially in larger muscles like the legs, arms, and torso.
Irritation of the eyelid or eye surface, which can cause muscle spasms in the eyelid or surrounding area.
Adverse reactions to certain drugs, such as corticosteroids and estrogen pills, can cause twitching in the hands, arms, or legs.
Electrolyte imbalances, which can occur from excessive sweating, intense exercise, or fluid loss from vomiting or diarrhoea, and can cause muscle twitching.
Not getting enough sleep can alter neurotransmitter levels and lead to muscle spasms.

When To See A Doctor For Muscle Twitching

If muscle twitching persists or is accompanied by other symptoms. it's best to consult a doctor. A doctor may perform a physical examination, blood tests, and in some cases an EMG (electromyography) test to help diagnose the cause of the twitching.

Depending on the underlying cause, treatment options may include addressing any nutrient deficiencies, adjusting medication, managing stress and anxiety, or addressing an underlying medical condition. In some cases, no specific treatment may be required, and the twitching will resolve independently.

Management Of Muscle Twitching At Home

1. Eat A Balanced Diet

Eating foods rich in vitamins and minerals, like fruits and vegetables is beneficial for your overall health, helping to reduce uncomfortable muscle twitches. Additionally, avoid processed food full of unhealthy fats and sugars may reduce inflammation, which often triggers muscle spasms. By eating a well-balanced diet, you’ll ensure your body gets all the essential nutrients needed for healthy muscles and nerve cells.

2. Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is a critical component of overall physical health. Not only does it help the body repair itself, but it also allows muscles to rest and recover from daily activities. When you don’t get enough sleep, your muscles may twitch due to exhaustion or overexertion. Additionally, without sufficient rest, you are more likely to experience other fatigue-related symptoms related to fatigue such as headaches and irritability.

If you’re experiencing muscle twitching due to lack of sleep, take steps to make sure that you are getting at least 8 hours of sleep every night.

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3. Manage Stress

Stress is the body’s response to any kind of demand or threat and is experienced mentally and physically. It's important to understand that the body releases hormones such as cortisol when we feel stressed. This causes many physical reactions, like tense muscles which may lead to muscle twitches.

It's essential for people with chronic muscle twitching to learn how to reduce their stress levels. You can do many activites from home such as yoga, meditation or deep breathing exercises that help relax your mind and body.

4. Quit Smoking

Smoking causes toxins to enter your body, which ‌in turn can cause muscles to become irritated and spasm. Additionally, nicotine has been linked to problems with balance and coordination, both of which can lead to further muscle twitching. Quitting this habit allows your body time to heal itself naturally and helps reduce any irritation that could be causing the problem.

Additionally, quitting smoking will also have many other benefits for your health!

FAQs

1. How do I stop a muscle twitch?

To stop muscle twitching, it is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a balanced diet of fresh fruits, vegetables, greens, and nuts. Getting enough sleep, avoiding energy drinks, drinking plenty of water and exercising daily can also help prevent muscle twitching. If you are experiencing muscle twitching and taking multiple medications, it's best to talk to your doctor.

2. How common are muscle spasms?

Muscle spasms are characterised by an involuntary, painful contraction of a muscle or group of muscles. The frequency of muscle spasms can vary depending on the individual, but they are generally considered being a common occurrence. Factors such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, muscle fatigue, and certain medical conditions can increase the likelihood of experiencing muscle spasms.

3. What vitamins may help with muscle spasms (muscle cramps)?

Some vitamins that may help with muscle spasms include vitamin D, magnesium and calcium. Consult your doctor if you are experiencing muscle cramps and if you are considering taking supplements.

4. What is the difference between a twitch and a spasm?

A muscle twitch and a muscle spasm are both types of involuntary muscle contractions; however, they differ in their characteristics. A muscle twitch is a short, repetitive contraction that may cause discomfort but is typically not painful. In contrast, a muscle spasm is a long-lasting contraction that can be painful and is often referred to as a muscle cramp. These muscle spasms may happen after physical activity and can be more severe.

5. Are muscle twitches the same as muscle cramps?

Muscle twitching is a slight, repetitive triggering of the muscle that does not result in a complete muscle contraction. It may be visible but not necessarily felt, while cramps and spasms are usually obvious and painful, but eventually stop.

Desk job woes, such as muscle twitching can be addressed by following the tips mentioned above. However, if these symptoms persist or worsen, it is important to rule out underlying health issues by visiting a medical expert for a comprehensive health assessment. This proactive approach can help identify and address any deficiencies, ultimately promoting overall well-being.

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