Carpopedal spasms
Carpopedal spasms are and involuntary, and sometimes violent, spasms of finger and toes. In some cases the wrist and ankle are also involved.
Causes
There is no single cause of carpopedal spasms. Some of the more frequent triggers include a calcium deficiency, vitamin D deficiency, hyperventilation, stress and dehydration. Other less common causes include Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis and Huntington’s.
Symptoms
There’s little difference between the symptoms of normal muscle spasm and symptoms of carpopedal spasm. Some of the common symptoms include:
- Sudden cramps in fingers, thumb, toes, and feet.
- Extreme fatigue experienced by the patient after the spasms.
- Feeling of pins and needles in the affected area.
- Numbness in the affected area.
Treatment
Typical treatments are:
- Calcium supplements.
- Vitamin D, supplements.
- Keeping well hydrated.
- Exercise – especially those such as swimming, aerobics and strength building exercises.
- Yoga, meditation and other relaxation techniques can be helpful, if the condition is caused by stress.
Always seek advice before taking dietary supplements.
