Hand or foot spasms are contractions of the hands, thumbs, feet, or toes and are sometimes seen with muscle cramps, twitching, and convulsions. These contractions of the muscles can be violent.
Spasms of the hands or feet are an important early sign of tetany, a potentially life-threatening condition. Tetany is a manifestation of an abnormality in calcium level, which can be linked to a lack of Vitamin D, lessened function of the parathyroid glands, alkalosis in the body, or the ingestion of alkaline salts.
Carpopedal spasms are usually accompanied by numbness, tingling, or a "pins-and-needles" feeling in the fingers, toes, and around the mouth; muscle weakness; fatigue; cramping; twitching; and uncontrolled, purposeless, rapid motions.
Common causes include:
- Hyperventilation (calcium becomes temporarily unavailable to the body during hyperventilation).
- Hypocalcemia.
- Muscle cramps, usually caused by sports or occupational muscle injury.
- Parkinson's disease and other neuromuscular conditions.
Treatments may include calcium and Vitamin D supplements (if you have a deficiency). Consult your physician before taking any medication.
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| The human foot has been called the mirror of health. Foot doctors, or doctors of podiatric medicine (DPMs), are often the first doctors to see signs of such systemic conditions as diabetes, arthritis, and circulatory disease in the foot. Among these signs are dry skin, brittle nails, burning and tingling sensations, feelings of cold, numbness, and discoloration. Always seek professional care when these signs appear. |
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