Foot spasms

Alternative names

Hand or foot spasms; Carpopedal spasm; Spasms of the hands or feet

Definition

Spasms are contractions of the hands, thumbs, feet, or toes that are sometimes seen with muscle cramps, twitching, and convulsions (tetany). They can be severe and painful.

Considerations

Spasms of the hands or feet may be 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 the following:

• Lack of vitamin D
  
• Lessened function of the parathyroid glands (hypoparathyroidism)
  
• Alkalosis in the body
  
• Ingestion of alkaline salts
  

These spasms are usually accompanied by the following symptoms:

• Numbness, tingling, or a "pins-and-needles" feeling
  
• Muscle weakness
  
• Fatigue
  
• Cramping
  
• Twitching
  
• Uncontrolled, purposeless, rapid motions
  

Common Causes

• Muscle cramps, usually caused by sports or occupational muscle injury
  
• Parkinson's disease and other neuromuscular conditions
  
• Hypocalcemia
  o Causes diffuse, recurrent, or severe muscle cramping
  o Severe hypocalcemia can produce convulsions.
  
• Hyperventilation - calcium becomes temporarily unavailable to the body during hyperventilation
  
• Damage to a single nerve or nerve group (mononeuropathy) or multiple nerves (polyneuropathy)
  
• Multiple sclerosis
  
• Various medications
  

Home Care
If vitamin D deficiency is the cause, supplemental vitamin D should be taken under the doctor's direction. Calcium supplements may also help.

Call your health care provider if

If you notice recurrent spasms of your hands or feet, call your health care provider.

What to expect at your health care provider's office

Your provider will obtain your medical history and will perform a physical examination. Laboratory testing of blood and urine may also be done.