Muscle spasms commonly occur when a muscle is over-used or injured. Working out when dehydrated or with low levels of potassium can also predispose to muscle spasms. Some spasms are caused when the nerve that connects to a muscle is irritated. The classic example of this would be a herniated disk irritating spinal nerves as they exit the back causing pain and spasm.
Spasms in the calf are common while kicking during swimming and can also occur at night while in bed. Upper leg spasms are more common with running or jumping activities. Spasm in the cervical spine (neck) can be a sign of stress.
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